I. Introducing Sexual Health and Sexuality

Chapter 4 Outline

Sexual Health

Culture, religion, economic realities, legal restrictions, and public education influence how women feel about sex, the degree of control over sexual issues they have in their lives, and how they express themselves sexually.

A. Culture and religion

B. Economics

C. Legal restrictions

D. Sex education programs

II. Sex Research

Sex research is inherently difficult, yet it has given us extensive insight into sexual behaviors and attitudes and into sexual response cycles.

A. Difficulties of sexual research

B. Important studies

III. Sex, Gender, and Sexual Orientation

Being born female influences how a woman will grow up to think of herself and how society will think of her. Women may develop sexual feelings for men, for women, or for both sexes.

A. Sex vs. gender B. Gender identity

C. Gender roles

D. Transgender

E. Sexual orientation

IV. The Biological Basis of Sexual Health

Knowing how the female body functions, how the menstrual cycle works, and what happens during routine gynecological examinations are all important steps a woman can take to increase her knowledge and to improve her own health.

A. External female genitalia

B. Internal female genitalia

C. The menstrual cycle

D. Problems with menstruation

E. Gynecological examinations

V. Sexual Arousal, Response, and Dysfunction

Sexual arousal, response, and dysfunction are complicated processes. A woman’s personal history, feelings, and biology influence each of these processes in many subtle and substantial ways.

A. The female sexual response cycle

B. Sexual expression

C. Sexual dysfunction

D. Sex therapy VI. Sexuality Throughout the Lifespan

Sexuality remains an important part of a person’s life from birth until death, not just during adolescence and young adulthood.

A. Childhood

B. Adolescence

C. Young to middle adulthood

D. Older adulthood

VII. Sexual Violence

Sexual violence is morally abhorrent and physically devastating, yet it exists throughout the world.

A. Sexual assault and rape

B. Female genital mutilation

C. Forced sterilization

D. Human trafficking

VIII. Informed Decision Making

Sexual well-being involves receiving routine gynecological care, understanding one’s own feelings, acting responsibly, and staying informed.