Sex refers to the biological characteristics that define humans as female or male. Physical features do not determine who is male or female, as there are individuals who possess both.

 

 In many languages, the term sex is often used to mean sexual activity. Still, for technical purposes in sexuality and reproductive health discussions, the above definition is preferred.

 

Sexual health is a state of physical, mental, and social well-being as regards to sexuality.

 

It requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sex-based relationships and the possibility of having pleasurable and safe experiences, free of coercion, discrimination, and violence.

 

People going for distance travel are likely to meet new sex partners. Travelers must learn about reproductive health to stay safe in all their endeavors.  

 

To attain sexual safety, all persons' sexual rights must be respected, protected, and fulfilled. Some of the rights critical to the realization of sexual health include the rights to;

 

The responsible exercise of human rights requires that all persons respect the rights of others.

 

These rights protect all people's rights to fulfill and express their sexuality and enjoy sexual health, with due regard for others' rights within a framework of protection against discrimination.

Sexual Health Risks When Going Overseas.

Sexual safety concerns during travel arise when you have intercourse with a new partner while away from home. About 50% of people who engage in different sexual relationships use condoms, thus reducing contracting STIs.

 

Wherever you go, safe sex awareness should be an important component of your pre-trip planning to protect your health and the health of your prospective partners. 

 

Sexual health for travelers begins before you even leave for your trip. It is a good idea to talk to your doctor about any potential health risks you may have while away or abroad. 

 

Find out and get all the vaccines you may need. Specifically, regarding sexual health, you can talk to your doctor about vaccines for Hepatitis B and Human papillomavirus (HPV), two sexually transmitted diseases for which vaccines are available.

 

Before flying abroad, be sure to go for STI testing. 

 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent worldwide, yet a high proportion of international travelers engage in unprotected sex while overseas and maybe at risk. 

 

Many travelers will visit health centers for pretravel vaccinations and advice. This presents an ideal opportunity for pretravel sexual health education and discussing the dangers and prevention of HIV and other STIs.

 

Talk to your health care provider about your birth control options. You want to make sure that you will have access to birth control while traveling. Depending on your trip's length, this could mean bringing enough from home to last you the duration of your journey of acquiring birth control while abroad.

 

 Certain forms of birth control, such as male condoms, will be easy to find in any country, though other forms of birth control may be less accessible or need a doctor's prescription. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to stay safe while overseas.

 

Some forms of contraceptives have specific storage requirements. They must be stored at room temperature, in a cool or dry environment, etc. This is another important thing to be mindful of when planning your birth control needs while traveling. 

 

Some tropical settings with wet and humid climates may cause unbearable storage conditions for your birth control.

Safe Sex Using Barrier Methods.

Barrier methods of birth control block sperm from entering the uterus. Using a spermicide with a barrier method gives you the best possible barrier method protection. 

  • The spermicide kills most of the sperm that enter the vagina. 

  • The barrier method then blocks any remaining sperm from passing through the cervix to fertilize an egg.

 

Barrier methods include the diaphragm, cervical cap, male condom, female condom, spermicidal foam, sponges, and film. 

 

Unlike other forms of birth control, barrier methods are used only when you have sexual intercourse. 

 

Be sure to read the instructions before using a barrier method. You must use a barrier method correctly every time you have sex.

 

STI prevention.

Male or female condoms are the only birth control methods that protect against sexually transmitted infections (STI), including infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). 

 

To protect your sexual health, be sure to use a condom every time you have sex.

 

Condoms are necessary when you need to protect yourself or your partner from sexually transmitted infection (STI) or do not know whether both are infection-free. 

 

Polyurethane male condoms give you and your partner the most effective possible protection from STIs, including infection with HIV. Natural membrane condoms do not protect you against all STIs. 

 

Barrier methods of birth control, such as a diaphragm, cervical cap, or condom, are a good choice if: 

  • You want an option that does not require hormones or insertion of an intrauterine device.
  • You want an option that does not restrict sexual intercourse, such as natural family planning.
  • You are planning to become pregnant soon and prefer a method you can stop using anytime you want.
  • You are breastfeeding.
  • You have heavy menstrual periods. A diaphragm may be used for birth control during a menstrual period and can contain the menstrual blood as long as it is not left in for longer than 6 hours at a time.
  • You and your partner find it easy to use the method every time you have sex.

 

A condom can tear when it is too tight or fall off when it is too loose. If this happens while you are having intercourse, use emergency contraception. If you are worried about exposure to a sexually transmitted infection (STI), get tested.

 

If you have a possible risk of giving or getting a sexually transmitted infection STI and want to prevent pregnancy effectively, combine condoms with a more reliable birth control method, such as the hormone pills, ring, patch, implant, or shot an intrauterine device (IUD).

Tips for Better and Safe Sex While on Travel.

As travelers go places where they are not known, they may no longer feel obligated to observe the same moral standards as at home, or they may desire to create a connection with others.

 

The act of travel itself may create the potential for casual sex. Dis-inhibition resulting from drug and alcohol use, a desire for adventure and excitement, peer pressure, and underlying psychological needs and personality traits may contribute, individually or in combination, to travelers having casual sex.

 

It is important to be prepared for the logistical, social, and cultural differences of sex worldwide. Here is how to have better, safer sex while traveling.

 

     1. Get tested before you travel.

If you are sexually active, it should be a standard habit to get tested for STIs every six months or more often if you have sex with multiple partners. 

 

Testing for STIs is easy and affordable, even if you do not have insurance. As a traveler, it is very important to learn your STI status to prepare adequately.

 

     2. Be familiar with sexual etiquette at your destination. 

Understand the sex norms in your destination country but never feel obliged to do something you are not comfortable with.

     3. Pack your condoms.

Travelers should pack their condoms, even if they do not plan to engage in sex. This is a sure way to avoid STIs and pregnancy. Condoms are affordable and lightweight. Always pack at least 3-6 condoms for emergency.

 

Things to know about condoms.

It can be a hassle to buy male condoms while you are traveling. Take responsibility for your sexual health by packing some before you travel. 

 

Male condoms have a shelf-life of 3-5 years, so always check the expiration date. Do not store condoms in your wallet (the heat and humidity can make them less effective if kept for too long).

 

Condoms come in various sizes for different length and girth; don't just grab the first box of condoms on the shelf. 

 

Finding the right fit will make you more likely to wear the condom and still enjoy safe sex. Female condoms can be inserted up to 8 hours before sex.

 

 You do not need a prescription to use female condoms. Never use a male and female condom at the same time (the resulting friction can cause tear)

Final Words

It is important to plan for sexual health before traveling to a new place. Always refer to this guide when planning a journey.

Contributor: admin