It is essential for clients to understand the basics of human sexuality.

Sexuality is a central aspect of being human throughout life and encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviours, practices, roles and relationships. While sexuality can include all of these dimensions, not all of them are always experienced or expressed. Sexuality is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, ethical, legal, historical and religious and spiritual factors.

The above definition recognises sexuality as a core aspect of each person’s life.
There are two broad functions to sexuality -

• Reproductive (sex for giving birth to a child)
• Non-reproductive (sex for pleasure, intimacy and relationship)

Worldwide, across all cultures and religion, the reproductive function of sexuality is well accepted and also set as a social norm. Whereas, the non-reproductive aspects are described in literature (Kamasutra, a pioneering work on this), shown in films, practiced in reality (by many) but not accepted in the society to openly discuss or seek help for such concerns.

SEXUAL RESPONSIBILITY

To remain free of infections and diseases contracted through sexual activity, the two most commonly used messages by public health campaigns are to remain in sexual relationship with one-partner or else use condoms in all other situations. By all means these two messages are very effective. Many can understand the importance of the above messages and do wish to follow it. However, when they are engaged in sexual activity, during the intense exchange of emotions and love, they make instant decisions such as to remove condoms before penetrating or ejaculate (cum) in to the mouth. Such ‘last minute’ irrational decisions can make you feel bad after the activity but it has already happened. The choices are to seek appropriate medical help, if available.

Unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, emotional and physical trauma including relationship problems are some of the negative consequences of irresponsible sexual behaviours.

Sexual responsibility includes understanding and awareness of one’s sexuality and sexual development: respect for oneself and one’s partner; avoidance of physical or emotional harm to either oneself or one’s partner; ensuring that pregnancy occurs only when welcomed; and recognition and tolerance of the diversity of sexual values within any community. Community responsibility includes respect for diversity; and freedom from stigmatization and violence on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation. - Call to Action to Promote Sexual Health and Responsible Sexual Behaviour
(Surgeon General of US, Satcher 2001).

BEING SEXUALLY RESPONSIBLE IS MORE THAN USING A CONDOM

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