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World Sexual Health Day 2024: Advancing Global Sexual Health and Well-Being On September 4, 2024, World Sexual Health Day serves as a critical reminder of the importance of sexual health as a fundamental aspect of overall health, gender equality, and broader… #Sexualhealthday #WHO >>> Read more

💘 The new Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study International Report reveals key insights into adolescent #sexualhealth across Europe, Central Asia, and Canada. Discover trends in sexual initiation, condom use, and contraceptive pill use among 15-year-olds. 📊 The report was led by András Költő and co-authored by Saoirse Nic Gabhainn and Olivia Lennox, three of our own colleagues at University of Galway - College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences; and Margreet de Looze (Utrecht University), Atle Jåstad (University of Bergen), and Dorothy Currie (University of St Andrews). ➡ Read the full report and join the conversation on how we can improve adolescent sexual health: bit.ly/hbsc-vol5 #adolescenthealth

Sexual health plays a pivotal role in fostering the overall health and prosperity of individuals, couples, and societies. It's not just about physical well-being but encompasses emotional, mental, and social dimensions. A positive attitude towards sexuality and relationships is essential, ensuring individuals can engage in pleasurable and safe experiences, devoid of coercion or discrimination. Access to comprehensive information about sex and sexuality is crucial, empowering individuals to make informed decisions. Understanding the risks associated with sexual activity and having access to quality sexual health care are equally vital components. Additionally, creating environments that endorse and promote sexual health further enhances well-being. Sexual health-related issues are diverse and encompass various aspects such as sexual orientation, gender identity, and reproductive health. From preventing infections like HIV and STIs to addressing unintended pregnancies and sexual violence, it's imperative to address these challenges effectively. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been at the forefront of promoting sexual health since the 1970s, continually refining definitions and strategies through expert consultations. Recognizing sexuality as a fundamental aspect of human life, WHO emphasizes the importance of upholding sexual rights for all individuals. Understanding sexuality goes beyond biological aspects; it includes gender identities, sexual orientation, and cultural influences. Upholding human rights frameworks ensures that sexual and reproductive health needs are acknowledged and fulfilled, promoting inclusivity and equality. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of a holistic approach to sexual health, considering factors such as age, diversity, and societal norms. By embracing diverse sexualities and challenging gender stereotypes, we can create inclusive environments that promote sexual well-being for all. #SexualHealth #PublicHealth #WellBeing #HealthUnits #MedicalBilling #RCM #WHO

National Public Health Week Day - 5 "Reproductive and Sexual Health" Reproductive and sexual health are paramount for individuals' overall well-being and quality of life. It encompasses a range of factors, including physical, emotional, mental, and social aspects, all crucial for leading fulfilling lives. Firstly, reproductive health ensures that individuals have access to comprehensive healthcare services that address issues related to their reproductive system. This includes family planning, maternal health care, genetic testing, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and access to safe and legal abortion services. By providing these services, individuals can make informed decisions about their reproductive lives, leading to healthier outcomes for themselves and their families. Secondly, sexual health goes beyond the absence of disease and encompasses positive and respectful relationships, consent, and sexual pleasure. It involves the right to accurate information about sexuality and sexual health, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. Education about sexual health promotes healthy behaviors, reduces the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies, and empowers individuals to advocate for their rights and well-being. Reproductive and sexual health also intersects with broader issues such as gender equality, human rights, and social justice. Access to reproductive and sexual health services is essential for achieving gender equality by ensuring that individuals can control their reproductive choices, pursue education and employment opportunities, and participate fully in society. Moreover, prioritizing reproductive and sexual health contributes to overall public health outcomes. Preventing unintended pregnancies and STIs reduces the burden on healthcare systems and promotes healthier communities. Additionally, addressing reproductive health disparities among marginalized populations, including women, adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people living in poverty, is crucial for achieving health equity. Reproductive and sexual health are fundamental aspects of human rights and well-being. By prioritizing comprehensive reproductive and sexual health services, societies can empower individuals to make informed choices, promote gender equality, and improve public health outcomes for all. #nationalpublichealthweek #reproductivehealth #sexualhealth #equality #freedom

Sexual rights are human rights! CerviHealth is creating a new generation sexual rights advocates! (108 advocates so far … not that we’re counting 😉) Sexual rights cover a whole host of topics. How much time do you have? Not long? That’s alright! Here are 3 elements of sexual rights that CerviHealth covers during our interactive sessions: 1. The right to participation. You have the right to participate in decisions that affect your sexual health and well-being. 2. The right to health. You have the right to access to sexual and reproductive health services, information, and education. 3. The right to personal autonomy. You have the right to make autonomous decisions about your own body and have these decisions recognised and respected by law. From Argentina through to Zambia, governments must provide comprehensive, non-discriminatory, evidence-based, scientifically accurate and age appropriate education. 😮💨 A bit of a mouthful, but it’s👏international👏law👏! Feel free to reach out to us at info@cervihealth.co.uk or check out our website (https://lnkd.in/eBtMZHv4) if you feel that your organisation, place of work or even group of pals would benefit from a sexual rights 101 from a CerviHealth consultant!

I have always fancied knowledge on Sexual health related issues . As a SRHR advocate , I have gone extra miles to learn more about how issues regarding our sexual and reproductive health rights . These are issues that are often neglected due to some religious and cultural barriers. In Northern part of Nigeria , it is often seen as a taboo to discuss such matters with the opposite gender. This lack of open communication around sexual health fuels a cycle of negative consequences: high rates of early marriage and childbearing among young people who lack comprehensive education, limited access to family planning services due to cultural and religious barriers, increased risk of sexually transmitted infections due to a lack of knowledge on safe sex practices, and a persistent gender power imbalance that restricts women's control over their own bodies. However, we , as SRHR advocates are not deterred. By engaging with religious and community leaders to promote messages compatible with local beliefs, providing youth-friendly and confidential sexual health services, utilizing culturally appropriate communication methods, and empowering women through education and economic opportunities, we can break down these barriers. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that everyone in Northern Nigeria has access to the sexual and reproductive health information and services they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

In many parts of the world, a lack of comprehensive sexual education programs in schools leaves many young people unprepared to navigate challenges related to sexual and reproductive health, sexual orientation, and safe decision-making. The issues discussed in this article are particularly relevant to numerous African nations. A proactive approach to sexual education is essential to empower young individuals to make informed and safe choices regarding their sexuality. #SexualEducation #Empowerment #YouthHealth https://lnkd.in/dGfkxfVX

Recruit of Members of The Board for KAPAL Key Affected Populations Alliance of Lesotho (KAPAL) is legally registered sex workers led organisation in Lesotho. It was registered in 2017. The membership is made up of Female Sex Workers, Male Sex Workers, LGBTIQA+ Sex Workers and Allies. The Vision of KAPAL is to become the leading organisation in creating a conducive environment where Sex Workers can operate legally and easily access Sexual Reproductive Health Rights Services and HIV/AIDS services and its mission is to build a sustainable movement that fights for the protection of Sex Workers Rights while also advocating for equitable access to Sexual Reproductive Health Rights services and HIV/AIDS Services. KAPAL has five pillars which include Economic Empowerment of Sex Workers; Decriminalization of Sex Work; Equitable access to SRHR and HIV/AIDS services to Sex Workers; Reduction of violence, stigma and discrimination and Advocacy for protection of Sex Workers Rights. In order to support these Pillars; KAPAL is looking for potential candidates (allies) to volunteer as members of The Board and they should have experience in Programs (1), M&E (1), KP (1) and HIV/AIDS (1). Potential Candidates are expected to submit their CVs and Biographies (2 pages maximum) to kapal0303@gmail.com on or before 5 PM, 31 May 2024.

Each year, National Public Health Week, held on the first week of April, celebrates the vital contributions of public health and addresses critical issues essential for enhancing the well-being of our nation. It underscores the fact that public health extends far beyond healthcare. Today's theme emphasizes the importance of Reproductive and Sexual Health. In 2024, raising awareness of reproductive and sexual health is paramount as these topics increasingly become politicized battlegrounds where public health is losing ground. The aftermath of the overturning of Roe v. Wade has triggered a cascade of restrictions, encroaching not only on women's bodily autonomy but also on essential medications vital for women's health on multiple levels. Reproductive health encompasses ensuring a healthy and safe sexual lifestyle. Despite the availability of STI tests and prophylactics, STI rates have surged alarmingly in the US. Since 2000, syphilis cases have skyrocketed, with an 80% increase from 2018 to 2022. In 2022, cases of congenital syphilis among newborns were ten times higher than in 2012. It's imperative to acknowledge that these issues disproportionately affect indigenous populations and communities of color. Sexual health encompasses the holistic well-being of one's sexuality. While significant progress has been made in sexual health awareness, recent legislative trends risk eroding these gains. Numerous bills introduced in state governments across the US almost criminalize individual identities, fostering an environment conducive to potential violence. Now more than ever, encouraging regular STI testing and promoting safe intercourse practices is crucial. Comprehensive sex education plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals to make informed decisions and reducing STI rates and sexual violence over the long term. Age-appropriate, comprehensive sex education in schools has been shown to have significant positive impacts. Access to reproductive health services must be expanded, not restricted. All levels of government should advocate for and fund clinics offering comprehensive reproductive and sexual health care, including family planning services, STI testing and counseling, and safe, legal abortion services. These services must be accessible and affordable. #NPHW #NationalPublicHealthWeek #ReproductiveHealth #SexualHealth #PublicHealth

🌟 Celebrating International Women's Day! 🌟 Today, as we commemorate International Women's Day, I am thrilled to share my latest article titled "Women’s Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services and Information in Ismailia, Egypt" at the peer-reviewed journal "BMC Women's Health". This article sheds light on the critical issue of women's access to sexual and reproductive health services and information in Ismailia, Egypt. This article holds a special place in my heart, as it stems from the research conducted during my master's degree, generously supported by The Mandela Rhodes Foundation. ❤️ ❤️ In many parts of the world, including Ismailia, women still face significant barriers when it comes to accessing essential healthcare services and accurate information about their sexual and reproductive health. Through the lens of intersectionality theory, we can delve into the different intersecting factors located at the micro and macro levels that influence women's access to SRH services and information. Through this research, we aim to raise awareness, spark conversations, and drive positive change towards ensuring every woman has access to the care and information she deserves. With solid data and information, we can guide policymakers, policies, and implement awareness programs, and initiate media awareness campaigns, to equip women with information and knowledge about their SRH services and information. The article link: https://lnkd.in/dWjT3Jbg On this special day, let's reaffirm our commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment. Together, we can create a world where every woman has the resources and support to make informed decisions about her health and well-being. I invite you all to read and share the article and join the conversation on working together to break down barriers and create a more equitable future for women everywhere. #InternationalWomensDay #GenderEquality #SRHR #Ismailia #Egypt #HealthcareForAll 🚺💪🏽🌍