Sexual health
Last updated:Overview
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines sexual health as a state of physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing in relation to sexuality, not just the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free from coercion, discrimination, or violence.
For more information on all of these, including up-to-date info on Services in your local area, visit the Sexual Health Bucks website (NHS)
For all newsletters relating to sexual and reproductive health, please visit Sexual Health Bucks e-bulletins
Useful Information
Wellbeing in Sexual Health Training for schools
Healthy Relationships and Consent
Contraception including C-card scheme, which enables young people to get free condoms from a large variety of access points in Buckinghamshire.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
All young people should be aware of the range of STIs and how to prevent them.
Exploitation
Exploitation is a form of abuse where someone is forced or coerced into doing things for the benefit of others. Read more about Exploitation and Modern Slavery and Child Sexual Exploitation
Sexual Assault
Sexual violence can happen to anyone; men, women, and children. The effect that it has on people will vary and different people may feel the impact of assault at different times. If someone has been raped or sexually assaulted, either recently or in the past, there is confidential support available. They will not be forced to report the assault to the police but may be helped to do so if this is what they wish.
Gender and sexuality
Gender and sex are two very separate terms, despite people commonly thinking they mean the same thing. Learn about the difference between gender and sex.
The Brook Charity explains this well.