Sexually Transmitted Diseases and the Family

In family health, the goal is to promote optimal sexual health throughout the life span. According to the World Health Organization in 2002, sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease: Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, including the promotion of safe sexual experiences. Sexual health and safe sexual experiences are facilitated through sexuality education. Sexuality education is a lifelong process of acquiring knowledge and forming attitudes, beliefs, and values. Sexuality education begins in the home with families and includes sexual development, sexual and reproductive health, interpersonal relationships, [Page 942]decision making, affection, intimacy, body image, gender roles, abstinence, contraception, and disease prevention. ...