Sexual Health Week champions open dialogue and safe practices every second full Monday to Sunday in September. This vital observance highlights the importance of regular checkups, testing for STIs, and fostering healthy relationships. Take this week to educate yourself, advocate for accessible resources, and speak openly about sexual well-being.
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Expected Sexual Health Week Deals
Sexual Health Week focuses on awareness, education, and access to vital services rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA) and Planned Parenthood often host free or low-cost testing clinics, educational webinars, and community outreach events. Pharmaceutical companies like Gilead Sciences and ViiV Healthcare may support awareness campaigns for HIV prevention and treatment. Non-profits such as The Trevor Project offer resources for LGBTQ+ youth. Look for local health departments and university health centers to provide free condom distribution and counseling. We will update this page with confirmed live events and resources as September approaches.
Platform Guide for Sexual Health Week
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #SexualHealthWeek. Share insights on workplace health policies or professional development in sexual health education.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #SexualHealthWeek. Post educational graphics, host Q&A sessions, or share personal stories to reduce stigma.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #SexualHealthWeek. Join trending conversations, share news on sexual health advancements, and advocate for policy changes.
Sexual Health Week Hero
Dr. Joycelyn Elders
History of Sexual Health Week
Aiming to keep everyone updated regarding sexually transmitted infections (S.T.Is) as well as sex education, Brook, a U.K.-based charity, holds a Sexual Health Week across England to raise awareness of these issues. As a result of the Children and Social Work Act 2017, which established the criteria for the education of relationships and sex education in schools, the government devised a plan to make it mandatory from 2019, with an option to extend the deadline to September 2020 if necessary. Relationships and sex education are now required in all schools, including primary, independent, academies, maintained, and free schools, under the new legislation. Special education facilities are also included in the new legislation.
Sexual Health Week was born out of the belief that everyone deserves a great sex life and that no one should be criticized for it. Sexual health and wellbeing information should be widely accessible. They consider that everyone has the opportunity to make educated decisions about their bodies and know their alternatives.
In previous years, the week has also focused on issues that affect a large number of people, such as alcohol and sexual health, as well as talking to spouses about contraception. In 2010, the very first sexual health campaign aimed at people over 50 was launched. In recent years, there has been an increased worry in the country about children being introduced to sex at an early age. The appearance of sensual themes in popular music videos has increased in recent years.
Sexual Health Week timeline
While abortion is lawful in England, Wales, and Scotland under the Abortion Act, homosexuality is legal in England, Wales, and Scotland under the Sexual Offences Act.
To provide contraception for teenagers under 16, parental consent is needed.
The government announces its strategy to reduce teenage pregnancy rates in England, it calls for better guidelines on contraception for under-16s and new criteria to determine whether or not a program is providing successful services to young people.
This Act set the standards for the education of relationships and sex education in schools, as stipulated by the Children and Social Work Act 2017.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Sexual Health Week
Local businesses can actively support Sexual Health Week by promoting education and access. Pharmacies can highlight safe sex products and offer discreet consultation services. Community health clinics can host free or low-cost STI testing and counseling sessions, perhaps with extended hours. Wellness centers might offer workshops on healthy relationships and consent. Restaurants or cafes could partner with local sexual health organizations to host informational events or donate a portion of sales to support their work, fostering a supportive community environment.
Sexual Health Week FAQs
When is Sexual Health Week?
In 2026, Sexual Health Week runs from Monday, September 14, through Sunday, September 20. It’s a crucial time to prioritize your well-being and seek out reliable information.
How many people are affected by STIs annually?
According to the CDC, there are approximately 26 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) each year in the United States. This highlights the ongoing need for awareness and prevention.
What are the most common STIs?
The most common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Many can be asymptomatic, making regular testing essential for detection and treatment.
Why is there still a stigma around sexual health?
Stigma around sexual health often stems from societal norms, cultural taboos, and a lack of comprehensive education. This can prevent individuals from seeking testing, treatment, or open communication with partners.
How to Observe Sexual Health Week
Learn more about Sexual Health
Discover stuff about yourself that you didn't know about before. Learn more about your sexual health and wellness so you are up to date with information.
Encourage others to have open conversations
Don’t be afraid to engage in conversation with people and educate them. Encourage people to have open and positive talks about their sexual health and wellness.
Attend sexual health activities
Attend activities that provide you with the resources and confidence you require to provide exciting and inclusive sex education. It could be a webinar, a seminar, a training, anything as long as you are learning.
5 Key Elements Of Sexual Health
It is about well-being
In terms of sexual health, well-being is more important than the absence of sickness.
Freedom
Respect, safety, and freedom from prejudice and abuse are all important aspects of sexual health.
Fulfillment of certain human rights
The fulfillment of certain human rights is necessary for the preservation of one's sexual health.
Lasts for a lifetime
Sexual health is important throughout a person's lifetime, not only for those who are in their reproductive years but also for those who are younger or older.
Manifests in different ways
Sexual health can be manifested in a variety of ways, including through various sexualities and modes of sexual expression.
Why Sexual Health Week is Important
it teaches about consent
Sexual Health Week teaches about consent. People who are aware of positive sexual health are more likely to have consensual sex when they first have sex.
it reduces unplanned pregnancies and S.T.Is
Sexual Health Week helps to reduce pregnancies as people are learning more about and using condoms and contraception. This reduces the rate of unplanned pregnancies and STIs.
It teaches positive sexual health
During this week, make sure you explore more about sexual health. Sexual Health is very important for our bodies and minds. It can help us not rush into having sex if we don’t feel ready no matter the pressure exerted.
Sexual Health Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 8–14 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2026 | September 14–20 | Monday–Sunday |
Social Media Tips for Sexual Health Week
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