Introduction

Healthy sexuality is a fundamental, enriching aspect of being human.

Being sexually healthy means being able to:

• Comfortably discuss your feelings and values.
• Initiate sex or say no to sex.
• Enjoy sexual expression, arousal and orgasm without fear, guilt or shame.
• Exercise your sexual rights.

Healthy sexuality involves not only being male or female, but also your:

• Attitudes and feelings.
• Physical and emotional needs.
• Sexual needs and desires throughout your lifetime.
• Pleasure and fulfillment.
• Reproduction and fertility.
• Self image and respect.

Healthy sexuality has to do with:

• Communicating, accepting and giving love and affection.
• Cultural and religious influences.

Expressing intimacy and feeling like you belong.

Sexual Expression

Sexual expression is the way we give and receive love.

It can happen in many ways, like:

• Participating in fun activities.
• Revealing private feelings and thoughts.
• Giving warm touches or hugs; or sharing physical intimacy.

We express ourselves sexually during our entire lives through:

• Abstinence.
• Our communication skills.
• Masturbation.
• Outercourse (intimacy without intercourse).

Your Sexual Rights

As a sexual human being, you have the right to:

• Feel in control of your body.
• Understand and express your feelings.
• Choose how you will express your sexuality with respect for yourself and others.
• Choose whether you will be in a relationship, and the kind of relationship it will be.