NHS Argyll and Clyde adopts the World Health Organisation definition of sexual health as:
A state of physical, emotional, mental and social well being related 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 sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.
Being sexually healthy is about emotional development, respect and understanding of ourselves, along with the ability to make choices and carry these out. It's not just about avoiding sexually transmitted infections and knowing about different types of contraception. Sexual health means making positive choices for yourself and your partners.
For people who choose to be sexually active, sex should be enjoyable, safe and based on mutual respect and agreement. It means enjoying sexual activities without causing harm either to you or anyone else.
