Sexual health
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Sexual health outcomes, such as sexually transmitted infections (STI) and abortion rates, are not equally distributed across the population, with a high correlation between deprivation and poor outcomes. There are other groups that are at higher risk of poor outcomes, such as young people and gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Sexual health is therefore an important aspect of public health to reduce health inequalities in Stockton-on-Tees.
Local authorities have a statutory responsibility and are required to commission comprehensive open access sexual health services, including:
- free STI and genitourinary medicine (GUM) testing and treatment
- notification of sexual partners of infected persons
- advice and access to a broad range of contraception
- advice on preventing unplanned pregnancy
Sexual heath is about more than the absence of disease and or dysfunction. It is about choice, positivity and respect, requiring: "a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled". (World Health Organisation, 2002)
Numerous strategies and tools help shape sexual health priorities including:
- Women's Health Strategy (2022)
- HIV Action Plan (2022 to 2025 and 2025 to 2030)
- STI Prioritisation Framework (UK Health Security Agency, 2024)
- Teenage Pregnancy Framework (2018)
- Teesside Sexual Health Needs assessment (2022)
