Women & Sexual Health
Let's talk about the s-word. You know, the word that is kind of taboo for women to talk about even though we are in the 21st century and it should be healthy and normal to talk about? You know, sex.
Sexual health refers to the state of wellbeing that allows a person to fully participate in and enjoy sexual activity. When we hear sex we think of men, but women have lots to know about sexual health as well, and not just about the part of how our bodies change when a baby is coming along or how babies are made. Women's sexual health, just like men's, is important to their physical and emotional wellbeing. When men think about sex, the basic concept it that the body has a physical desire for sex, which motivates sexual activity, which then leads to arousal, and then bam you should reach your peak. But for women, it's a little different. Many women have different motivators and stimuli to make them desire sex and become aroused. Physical desire may just not cut it.
What most people don't realize (until it becomes a problem) is how important our overall wellbeing is to our sexual health. Sex requires connections between the sex organs, hormone producing glands, the brain, and the rest of the body. If one part of the circuit is out of balance then the desire for sex or the ability to have sex will be compromised. Our experiences, expectations, mental health, physical health, and emotional health all shape our sexuality.
Women's sexual health starts by talking about your desires. It's not always easy to talk about (usually it can be quite awkward if we are not comfortable), but unfortunately our partners can't read our minds. Sharing thoughts and expectations can bring you closer together and help you experience greater sexual enjoyment.
- Admit your discomfort: if you feel anxious, say so. Opening up about concerns can get the conversation started and a place to start.
- Start talking: Once you start making a habit of talking about it, your confidence levels will rise
- Set a time limit if you are wary of talking about it: committing to a 15 minute conversation may make it easier for you to stay within your emotional comfort zones in the beginning
- Talk regularly: like everything else, it gets easier with time and our desires and wants also change with time.
What are some things you may want to talk to with your partner?
- Time: are you setting enough time for each other? If not, how can you work on this?
- Your relationship: are there challenges between you two that could be interfering with your sexual intimacy?
- Romance: Do you both have the same definition of romance? Is something missing for either one of you? How can you reignite it if you need to? How can romance enhance your intimacy?
- Routines or ruts: has sex become too predictable or routine? What changes could you both make?
- Emotional aspects: sex is more than just a physical act. It is an opportunity to build connections and closeness. Take the time to explore these aspects and build on them to build more intimacy
- Changes: are there stresses, physical or emotional changes that could be impacting your sexual health? Talking about these changes lets someone else know what the problem is and that they are not the problem.
What are some things that is said that women need to enjoy sexual intimacy?
- Knowing what you like and don't like in the bedroom & be able to communicate these desires
- The ability to focus in on the moment and tune out the noise. Because with such high stress lives we often lead, it's normal to get distracted. Staying focused in the moment is important.
- Positive body image & sexual self-confidence. Because if we don't feel good about our bodies, it may be more challenging to enjoy sex. Research shows that body image and thoughts about the body predict sexual satisfaction in women.
- Trust and emotional security in your relationship: If you feel disconnected from your significant other it may be difficult to engage in intimacy.
- Knowing your partner's sexual health status. Being on the same page about sexual safety and feeling comfortable with each other's history can be important for many women
Do you agree with these? Would you add or omit any?
This week we will be exploring topics such as contraception, possible problems women could experience, and resources around sexual health.
Resources
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