New Delhi: Food, water and sex are considered to be the basic needs of human beings they say! To a large extent, it is true. Sexual activity is not only good for the physical health but is also important for the mental health and psychological well-being of an individual. Some research suggests that sexual activity is declining slowly in many individual’s lives. Not only that, this trend is significantly noticed among adults under the age of 25 who are also referred to as Generation Z. On World Sexual Health Day let’s understand how to promote a greater social awareness of sexual health across the globe.
According to a report from the Kinsey Institute and Lovehoney survey, one in four GenZ adults in the US stated that they never had sexual intercourse. Experts have noted that there are GenZs have various thoughts, struggles and fears around sexual intimacy and sexual health.
In conversation with News9, Dr Suraj Pinni Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, Secunderabad, “This year the theme is ‘ Positive Relationships’, the aim of which is to teach behaviours that ensure that relationships (including sexual) are developed healthily in the younger generations. Gen Z which is at the cusp of their youth, has entered the phase of discovering their sexuality and feelings towards others. Social media being a major influencer for this generation is full of misleading and sometimes harmful information.”
In this phase, one needs to be guided to achieve a healthy and safe sexual life. To lead a healthy sexual life one needs to look after the physical, psychological as well as social well-being of oneself.
Sexual Health Tips for Gen Z: Urologist’s Perspective
1. Know your body: Having a basic knowledge of the sexual organs is essential for being able to care for and have a safe sexual life.
2. Maintaining good hygiene practices: In boys, care of the foreskin is essential. If you are unable to pull back your foreskin or have pain while doing so then you might be suffering from ‘Phimosis’. This can lead to the accumulation of body secretions under the skin and cause damage to the urinary tract. If you are facing such issues you should seek medical attention.
Similarly in ladies maintaining good menstrual habits is essential. Harsh soaps and douching products should be avoided to maintain a normal pH level and friendly microbes in the vulvovaginal area.
3. Sexually transmitted infections: Usage of barriers such as Condoms can prevent a significant number of STIs. Sexually active individuals should openly discuss this and also get themselves tested if they suspect that they have been exposed to or are at risk of harbouring such infections. These infections can lead to permanent and irreversible damage to the urine tract which can manifest as urinary issues and also infertility. In case of suspected STIs, immediate professional help should be sought.
4. Hand hygiene: Washing hands before as well as after using public restrooms reduces the possibility of catching infections from unclean surfaces.
5. Empty the bladder: Emptying the bladder pre and post-coitus reduces the chances of catching Urinary tract infections in ladies.
6. Should consult with Urologists: Individuals with congenital abnormalities or a history of surgical correction of sexual organs and urinary systems should consult with their Urologists/gynaecologists before embarking on their sex life.
7. Maintain a healthy sexual lifestyle: Having a clear understanding of one’s sexual orientation and identity is essential to developing a healthy sexual life. Consulting a psychologist can help in this journey.
8. Use of recreational drugs: It can have detrimental effects on sexual function, ranging from impaired erections or unpleasant painful erections (Priapism), requiring emergency care. It may also impact fertility potential in the future. If you are facing issues concerning erections kindly seek help from medical professionals.
9. Do not believe in myths: Several misconceptions at a young age lead to further stigmatization of this topic. Topics like masturbation, menstrual health and sexual activity should be discussed openly. Healthcare providers offer education, resources, and judgment-free support so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
According to expert, Gen Z which is at the cusp of their youth, has entered the phase of discovering their sexuality and feelings towards others. Social media being a major influencer for this generation is full of misleading and sometimes harmful information. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
