Health and fitness are important for everyone, of course. But for active duty members of the military, staying healthy and physically fit is not just important for your life—it’s part of your job. So you exercise, eat well, and prioritize your physical health. Hopefully you’re mindful about you mental health and relationships as well. But what about your sexual health?
You may know this, but they are all related. Sexual health is an important part of your overall wellbeing—it has an impact on your physical, mental and emotional health. Taking care of your sexual health can prevent possibly serious health problems—affecting your life and you ability to serve. That’s why it’s important to make sexual health care part of your regular healthcare routine.
Sex educator Shan Boodram shares real stories submitted by several young members of the military on dating, STDs, unintended pregnancy, and managing sexual health care in the service.
Going Further
Check out these resources, both from the military and other sources, to find reliable information on sexual health and STI prevention.
- Navy & Marine Corps Sexual Health and Responsibility Program (SHARP)
A comprehensive list of resources for service members on such topics as STI and HIV prevention services, transgender health, contraception, and more. - Army Public Health: HIV and STD Prevention
Offers a range of resources on STI and HIV prevention. - Army Public Health: Sexual Health for Women
Includes information on contraception, menstruation, and reproductive health, as well as common vaginal infections. - Gay and Bisexual Men’s Sexual Health
Resources and information for gay and bisexual men and transgender women from SHARP. - Lesbian’s and Bisexual Women’s Health
Resources and information on lesbian and bisexual women’s health from SHARP. - Top Ten Questions for LGBTQ Patients to Discuss with a Healthcare Provider
GLMA, a national organization committed to ensuring health equity for LGBTQ and all sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals, offers this resource addrrssing the unique health needs and concerns of LGBTQ patients. - TRICARE
Health insurance for service members and their families. - National Sexual Health Coalition
Not military-specific, but a great resource for taking charge of your sexual health. It outlines five action steps you can take to achieve good sexual health.