The ages of 12-20 in a person’s life are crucial. It is the period of time where a person faces many physical and emotional changes in the body, especially regarding the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics. The production of several sex hormones develops at this age, leading to puberty and then adulthood. Therefore, it is wise to educate young adults on the importance of their sexual health.
A growing teenager must be familiar with the significance of their sexual health, and it is vital to inform them never to be embarrassed or hesitant to ask questions. This article will cover the significant points of sexual health in young adults.
The Rise Of STDs
The first concern that may surround the sex lives of young adults, is sexually transmitted infections and diseases. Unsafe sexual contact is the root cause of the increasing number of STIs and STDs. This is believed to be because of the lack of awareness around the topic.
Young people (and adults) often neglect the thought of safe sex and ignore the importance of condoms. Unfortunately, this leads to consequences like sexually transmitted infections.
It is important to continue to educate young people on the complications of STDs. They should be encouraged to visit a sexual health clinic with any concerns or questions they may have, especially if they are sexually active, it is important to get tested to keep themselves and others safe.
The Threat Of Pornography
Everyone is aware that access to pornography has been made easy due to mobile phones and internet usage. With young people being at a vulnerable age and exploring their sexuality, there is a risk of internet misuse. Pornography can lead to unrealistic expectations of sex, and excessive masturbation.
Excessive masturbation can lead to health issues such as weakness and damage to the reproductive organs, immature sperm discharge and damage to the testicles. It may also pose the risk of seminiferous tubules in the reproductive tract.
Diet And Physical Activity
With poor diet and lack of physical activity, it can affect one’s sex life. It is known that with poor diet and no physical exercise, can lead to a decrease in sex drive and other sexual health complications. Diets can affect hormonal imbalances, and for females, there are chances of disruption in their menstrual cycle.
Physical activity is crucial to keep hormones balance and in control. In addition, adrenaline which increases the heart rate and blood pressure, must also be kept in control. Over or underproduction of this hormone can lead to mood swings, no sex drive, and overall poor physical and mental health.
Final words
It is important to educate young adults on their sexual health and wellbeing. The more educated young people are, the more likely they are to practice safe sex and will be more aware of the risk of STIs and STDS. Not only does sex education keep one individual safe and healthy, but it will also keep their sexual partner(s) safe too.