Beyond Biology: Navigating Sexuality and Sexual Health in India

In India, conversations around sex often happen in hushed tones, if at all. Yet, understanding sexuality and sexual health is not just about biology; it's fundamental to our overall well-being, relationships, and personal identity.

Inadequate sex education, as well as how sex and sexuality are viewed in our country, causes a lot of misinformation, stigmatization, and failure to address health needs. Such things may result in situations that have a lifelong impact on individuals, such as unwanted pregnancy, mental trauma, and relationship difficulties.

This blog aims to shatter that silence and debunk exactly what sexuality is, how it's different from sex and gender, and why sexual health is essential in India.

Sex is the biological embodiment given at birth, usually male, female, or intersex, based on anatomy and chromosomes.

Sexuality is a bit more complicated. It encompasses sexual orientation, sexual attraction, identity, and tastes. The aspect of sexuality is individual and dynamic, as it keeps changing with time.

Does gender stand for sexuality?

No. Gender is an inner sense of oneself, like male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between.

Sexual orientation, however, deals with who one is attracted to, either emotionally, romantically, or sexually. When we learn more about these differences, it helps us think about sexuality not in terms of a label but as a complex human experience.

What is the number of sexualities?

There is no such thing as an exact list of sexualities. Terms such as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, asexual, and pansexual are broad categories.

Human sexuality is a spectrum, and no two people are the same. Rather than thinking about labels, we need more understanding, acceptance, and respect for individual experiences.

Sexual health is an important aspect when it comes to sex and sexuality, but talking about this is usually considered taboo in our country, even now. By making it something not to be talked about openly, our society has left people without the appropriate knowledge about sex and sexual health.

Sexual health is not just about preventing STDs or just sex in general; it is a state of complete physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being with relation to sexuality. Having good sexual health means:

• No coercion, discrimination, or sexual violence
• Having access to proper information, education, and services
• The capability to make informed judgments
• Safe sex and satisfying sexual experiences
• Physical, reproductive, and sexual well-being

Talking about sexuality in our country can get you side eyes from people, but what they fail to understand is how it is negatively impacting our country and the younger generation as well. Here are some of the issues that we face regularly regarding sexuality:

Cultural and Social Barriers:

1. Stigma and Shame: Talking about sex is viewed as "dirty," or people are shamed for even mentioning it. Many people suppress their questions or refrain from asking for assistance as a result of this shame-inducing silence.

2. Absence of Comprehensive Sex Education: Sex education is still not offered in the majority of schools, which leads to youngsters falling prey to myths, false information, and stereotypes that can cause severe damage.

3. Gender inequality: Women and other marginalised genders' autonomy and sexual rights are still impacted by patriarchal norms, resulting in unequal power dynamics and health disparities.

Health and Access Barriers:

1. STIs and STDs: People risk getting STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) or STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) due to a lack of knowledge and difficulty accessing private testing and care.

2. Unwanted Pregnancies: Lack of access to safe abortion services and contraception is still a big problem, particularly in rural areas.

3. Sexual dysfunction: These are real health issues that need sensitive care and medical attention, but they are frequently disregarded or ridiculed in our society.

4. Violence and Discrimination: People are frequently abused, and victims of sexual assault are often shamed or silenced.

5. Limited Access to Healthcare: The majority of sexual health services are judgmental and focused on urban areas, which discourages people from getting help, particularly young people and those living in rural areas.

Doctors can provide personal, all-encompassing care based on a person’s needs if they are aware of their sexual orientation. It ensures proper screenings, accurate diagnoses, and promotes open communication by fostering trust and transparency. It is more about care, not intrusion.

There is a close relationship between physical health and sexuality. Better sex is highly dependent on good physical health. For example, a well-functioning cardiovascular system and well-balanced sex hormones can help increase libido.

On the contrary, long-term conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or depression, and the drugs and operations can reduce sexual drive, sexual arousal, and sexual functions.

It is for this reason that approaching sexual concerns should be holistic. Your sexual health is dependent on your physical well-being, mental and emotional health. There is no need to be afraid to talk to a doctor, as they are trained to help you and guide you through this journey.

1. Open Communication: Engage in honest conversations with friends, partners, or professionals.

2. Reliable Information: Avoid listening to other uninformed people, myths, and instead rely on reputable medical sources.

3. Consent: Consent should always be taken before engaging in any kind of sexual activity.

4. Safe sex: Use protection when having sex to avoid STIs and unwanted pregnancies.

5. Self-Acceptance: Celebrate your individuality and sexuality.

6. Seek Assistance: If you have any questions about your sexual or physical health, consult a physician.

Sex, sexuality, and good sexual health are fundamental aspects of being a human. They deserve to be talked about, and people need to be more vocal to have courteous, candid, and well-informed discussions.

We can empower ourselves and others to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by enhancing our understanding of our bodies and identities.

Let's create a culture in which prioritising sexuality and sexual health is a norm, not an exception.