Empower Yourself: A Guide to Sexual Health Self-Assessment

There's no better moment than now to evaluate if you're up-to-date with your sexual health care. Reflect on your recent sexual health history and any changes in your health or lifestyle that may necessitate a consultation with a healthcare professional.

Time to Take Stock of Your Sexual Health Care

Self-Check Questions:

• Have you postponed a sexual healthcare visit due to pandemic restrictions?
• Are you sexually active with an expired or depleted contraceptive supply?
• Could pregnancy be a possibility for you right now?
• Have you engaged in sexual activities with new partners recently?
• Are you experiencing any discomfort, pain, or unusual symptoms that need medical attention?

Sexual healthcare is a critical component of your overall well-being. If any of these questions raise concerns, it's important to seek medical advice promptly.

Despite potential obstacles related to Covid-19, such as loss of health insurance or difficulty accessing healthcare services, support is available. Local social support agencies or resources like www.healthcare.gov can provide assistance in obtaining affordable healthcare coverage through various programs.

Other barriers may include finding a provider you can relate to, logistical challenges in attending appointments, emotional discomfort, or previous negative experiences in healthcare settings. Nevertheless, engaging with sexual healthcare is crucial for two main reasons:

• Preventive Care: Regular screenings are essential for early detection and treatment of health concerns. These include Pap smears for cervical health, STI screenings for sexually active individuals, and mammograms or breast exams for breast health.
• Sexual Health Resources: Routine discussions with healthcare professionals about sexual health matters, such as birth control, STI prevention, managing sexual difficulties, and reproductive health, are imperative.

Creating a positive partnership with your healthcare provider is key to receiving quality sexual health care. When visiting your provider, come prepared with questions and concerns, communicate openly about any symptoms, and discuss any tests or treatments you're interested in or unsure about. A good provider will respect your input and work with you to determine the best care plan for you.

For more insights on this topic, refer to the work of Dr. Ashley Townes and Dr. Herbenick, which offers additional tips for communicating with healthcare providers about sexual health.