How to Be Sexually Healthy: What It Really Takes

Not sure how to be sexually healthy? Learn what sexual health really means—from communication and…

Wondering how to be sexually healthy in a real and holistic way? It’s about more than just condoms and contraception—it’s about how you think, feel, communicate, and show up in your intimate life.

With all of our years of sexual innovation and acceptance, many people still find it hard to talk about sex or live a sexually healthy lifestyle. While being sexually healthy may seem like it’s just about practicing safe sex, avoiding unwanted pregnancy, and making smart decisions, it’s actually that—and so much more.

What It Really Means to Be Sexually Healthy

Being sexually healthy means you have a positive framework for the way you view sex. It’s not burdened with guilt or negativity. It means taking responsibility for your own body—getting yearly physicals, using contraception every time, and knowing what you do and do not like.

Sexual health also means taking care of your partner’s well-being—by ensuring they’re practicing safety, treating them with respect, and not pushing their boundaries. And finally, it means not doing anything you’re not comfortable doing.

First Step: Talk About It

If you feel like you’re not living as sexually healthy as you could be, it’s never too late to shift gears.

The first step? Talk to your partner. As the saying goes: if you’re not comfortable talking to them about sex, you probably shouldn’t be having sex with them.

Sit them down. Be honest. It’s time to speak up if you feel disrespected, if you’re crossing your own boundaries, or if high-risk behaviors (like not using contraception) are happening. Lay the groundwork for a safer, more honest connection.

Explore What You Like and Want

If you feel disconnected from your own desires or unsure what brings you pleasure, it’s time to get curious with yourself and your partner.

Take your sexuality into your own hands—literally and figuratively. Watch how your body responds. Notice what turns you on. Then, when you’re ready, share it with your partner. This kind of exploration builds confidence and closeness, even if it feels vulnerable at first.

Prioritize Your Physical Health

If you’ve fallen behind on your body’s sexual health, book a check-up. Get tested. Get examined. You might hear things you’d rather avoid, but knowledge is power—and your health matters, not just for you, but for anyone you’re intimate with.

Taking care of yourself is an act of love—for you and for others.

Address Shame, Guilt, or Emotional Pain

If sex brings up feelings of guilt or shame, you don’t have to carry that alone. These emotions can block your ability to feel good, connect, or feel safe in your body.

Being sexually healthy includes your mental and emotional relationship to sex. If sex makes you feel bad about yourself—or anyone else—consider talking to a coach, therapist, or trusted support person. You deserve a relationship to sex that feels empowering, safe, and joyful.

Final Thoughts: You Can Always Turn It Around

Being sexually healthy is something we all have to work at. Sometimes we fall out of alignment. Sometimes we lose touch with our needs. But the good news? It’s never too late to get back on track.

Simply turn around. Reclaim your relationship with your body, your pleasure, and your power.