September 4 marks World Sexual Health Day, a date dedicated to promoting an informed, safe, violence-free experience of sexuality based on respect for everyone's rights. The observance seeks to reinforce that sexual health is an integral part of health and well-being throughout life.
Sexual health extends beyond preventing infections and unplanned pregnancies, encompassing access to accurate information, sexual education, contraceptive methods, screenings, and specialized support. It also includes consensual relationships, respect for sexual orientation and gender identity, privacy, equality, and the absence of discrimination.
Experts emphasize the importance of discussing sexuality without stigma for responsible decision-making and risk prevention. Health and sexual education in all contexts is crucial. In Portugal, the SNS offers family planning consultations and sexual and reproductive health services.
World Sexual Health Day is also an opportunity to combat prejudice, silence, and misinformation, which can delay diagnoses and hinder help-seeking. Promoting sexual health means ensuring everyone lives their sexuality with safety, autonomy, dignity, and equitable access to healthcare.
