Discuss a relevant sexual health issue framed around the learning outcomes: So you need to consider theories and concepts of sex and sexuality, models of health promotion, complexities

Promoting Sexual Health 

Discuss a relevant sexual health issue framed around the learning outcomes: So you need to consider theories and concepts of sex and sexuality, models of health promotion, complexities of sexual health promotion within different populations, the impact of policies and interventions and the impacts of ethics, culture or religion.  You will need to consider and analyse these in relation to your chosen topic

Introduction

What are you going to discuss in the essay and why

• Discuss why promoting sexual health is important from a public health and wellbeing point of view.
• Identify the sexual health issue that will be the focus of your essay and any specific perspectives you will be exploring: ie FGC- raising awareness or education

Outline what issues you will be discussing in the essay e.g. the concepts and theories that relate to sexual health, complexities of sexual health promotion in different populations and models of health promotion, impact of sexual health policies and interventions and how factors such as ethics, culture and religion impact on sexual health. These should relate to your topic. 

• So this section is where you need to explore the issue in relation to the learning outcomes. But don’t let these inhibit your flow. Make sure you can construct a logical, coherent discussion throughout.
• Firstly, consider the theories and concepts of sex and sexuality. Why do certain populations behave in the way they do? Motivations?  Gender differences and issues? Again- this needs to relate to your issue.
• How and why do we use health promotion models to understand behaviours?  What models are relevant to your issue. The Health Belief Model is used a lot in relation to sexual health, however, you can also explore other models such as Theory of Planned behaviour.  What are the complexities of sexual health promotion in relation to your chosen population?
• What policies, and interventions have been developed to support effective sexual health promotion relation to your issue. What are the effects of these? What has worked in other areas?

Sample Answer

Introduction

This essay will explore the topic of Female Genital Cutting (FGC), a serious sexual health issue affecting many women and girls worldwide, especially in some African, Middle Eastern, and Asian communities. The aim is to discuss why promoting sexual health, especially through raising awareness and education about FGC, is important for public health and overall wellbeing. FGC is not only a physical health concern but also deeply connected to cultural beliefs, gender roles, and human rights.

Promoting sexual health is essential because it supports people in making informed decisions, helps prevent disease, and improves quality of life. In the case of FGC, many girls are affected at a young age, often without proper knowledge or consent. This can lead to lifelong physical and emotional harm. Public health efforts must therefore focus on education, prevention, and support for those at risk or already affected.

This essay will cover several key areas to fully understand the issue. First, I will explain the concepts and theories related to sex and sexuality, such as how gender expectations and power structures influence practices like FGC. Next, I will explore models of health promotion,for example, the health belief model and empowerment-based approaches,to see how they can be used to educate and protect vulnerable communities.

I will also discuss the complexities of sexual health promotion across different populations, particularly how cultural sensitivity and trust are needed when working with communities where FGC is common. The role of policies and interventionssuch as laws, international agreements, and local support services,will be examined to see how effective they are in tackling the problem. Lastly, I will consider how ethics, culture, and religion affect people’s views on FGC and how these factors can either support or challenge health promotion efforts.

Continued...