Relationships and sexual health

Sexual health in Scotland is poor, with some of the highest unintended pregnancy rates in Europe and a rising incidence of sexually transmitted infection. Many young people also report that they regret having had early sexual activity. 

The World Health Organisation defines sexual health as:

• a capacity to enjoy and control sexual and reproductive behaviour in accordance with a social and personal ethic
• freedom from fear, shame, guilt, false beliefs and other psychological factors inhibiting sexual response and impairing sexual relationships
• freedom from organic disorders, diseases and deficiencies that interfere with sexual and reproductive functions.

Relationships are important to us all as they can have an impact on our sense of wellbeing and belonging. For young people, sexual health and relationships are about everything to do with sex, relationships and the way their body and feelings change as they become an adult. Sexual health education is about encouraging and supporting young people to know and understand more about what rights they have, and what responsibilities they have to look after themselves and other people. There are also aspects of the law that young people and professionals need to think about. 

The way young people conduct their relationships and deal with their sexual health involves a lot of issues. This subject can provoke worry and disagreement - after all, parents and carers are deeply concerned about the happiness and welfare of their children. 

Research indicates that parents and carers want support to help them talk to children and young people about sexual health and relationships. Books and factsheets are popular resources, as are worksheets, self-esteem games and exercises. We know that the partnership between schools and parents/carers is also a beneficial way of providing sexual health and relationship education. Visit the Parentzone site for more information and advice. 

Research suggests that if parents and carers talk to young people about sexual health and relationships then this can be beneficial to them in their development as young adults. 

Good sexual health and wellbeing do not happen in isolation. For example, alcohol use, peer pressure, low self-esteem and lack of assertiveness can have an impact in this area. For looked after children, young people and care leavers the corporate parent has a vital role in ensuring that both they, and those supporting them, have access to relevant education and support. It is particularly important that this group of young people receive support to help them build positive relationships and make informed choices about their futures.