Philosophy of Sexual Health Equity
Sexual health equity is the idea that everyone should have equal access to high quality healthcare regarding their sexual wellbeing. This includes receiving affordable and accessible education about contraceptives, protection against STIs/STDs, and support for reproductive rights. Sexual health equity also means that no one should face stigma or discrimination related to their gender identity, orientation, marital status, or choice to be sexually active. Unfortunately, many people are still facing barriers to care when it comes to these issues. Here are some ways that philosophy can illuminate the problem, and provide ideas for reform.
Barrier 1: Costs
One major barrier to obtaining sexual health services is cost. Many clinics charge fees for exams, prescriptions, and testing, which may be too expensive for low-income individuals.
Having unprotected sex can lead to higher medical costs later if someone contracts an STI or becomes pregnant. Therefore, it makes sense for society as a whole to invest in preventative measures like free condoms and HIV testing instead of reactively paying more money down the road.
Government Funding
Governments should increase funding towards public health initiatives that promote sexual health equity.
They could subsidize birth control pills, which would lower costs and encourage responsible decision-making. They could also establish tax credits or reimbursements for people who use contraception.
Governments could offer grants to nonprofits and community centers that provide free sexual health services.
Barrier 2: Stigma
People often feel shame and embarrassment about seeking out sexual healthcare due to social pressures. Some communities view certain types of intimacy as immoral, while others associate sex with promiscuity and irresponsibility. As a result, they avoid getting tested for STIs/STDs or asking their partner(s) about sexual histories. This stigma leads to greater risks of transmission and complications.
Media Campaigns
To combat this problem, media campaigns must normalize conversations about sexual health. Advertising agencies could work with educational institutions to create PSAs that address stigmas head on. These ads might focus on common misconceptions, such as "you don't need a condom if you're only having oral sex" or "only virgins can contract HPV." They may also highlight how important it is to protect oneself before engaging in any type of sexual activity.
How does philosophy of sexual health equity illuminate barriers to care and responsibilities for equitable reform?
Philosophy of sexual health equity emphasizes that everyone has equal rights to access high-quality sexual and reproductive healthcare services regardless of their gender, age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, or other factors. It highlights that people should have autonomy over their bodies and choices regarding their sexual experiences, including safe sex practices, contraception, birth control, abortion, and pregnancy termination.