It’s National Public Health Week and today’s theme is Reproductive and Sexual Health.

The World Health Organization defines sexual health as a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely 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 of coercion, discrimination and violence.

For science.
When people receive quality reproductive and sexual health care, education and access, they can fulfill a happier and healthier life. We must recognize structural discrimination, biases and injustices which can block inclusive and accessible reproductive and sexual health care.

For action.
Advocate for sex education policymakers to create and execute culturally competent curricula that align with National Sex Education Standards. Promote increased distribution of HPV vaccines, pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV.

For health.
An inclusive sex education curriculum and health care system can lead to a delay in the age of first-time sexual intercourse, reduce the overall number of sexual partners, increase use of contraception, reduce unintended teen pregnancy and reduce rates of teen HIV and other STIs.

Good sexual and reproductive health implies that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life. To maintain one’s sexual and reproductive health, people need access to accurate information and the safe, effective, affordable and acceptable contraception method of their choice. They must be informed and empowered to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections. And when they decide to have children, women must have access to skilled health care providers and services that can help them have a fit pregnancy, safe birth and healthy baby. Every individual has the right to make their own choices about their sexual and reproductive health. Learn more at unfpa.org and cdc.gov.