Teaching Truth: Why Comprehensive Sexuality Education is Essential for Women’s Sexual Health

At SHE+, our podcast name, Sex Care is Self Care, is not just words. We believe that sexual health is the key to self-care, and self-care starts with knowledge. Knowledge that is accurate, inclusive, and empowering. Knowledge that helps women and girls not just understand their bodies, but understand their boundaries, their emotions, and their choices. 

That is what Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) provides. A science-based, age-appropriate framework that nurtures autonomy, empathy, and well-being across every stage of life. When we talk about advancing women’s health, it begins with providing the tools to educate one another. 

“Sex Ed” is treated as a single, awkward class about reproduction in school. But, comprehensive sexuality education is far more than that. It’s an evidence-based approach to Sex Ed that is rooted in medicine, science, psychology, and public health. Yes, it teaches basic anatomy and contraception, but it also teaches emotional intelligence, consent, communication, and inclusion. 

According to UNESCO (2018) Comprehensive Sexuality Education integrates lessons on: 

• Anatomy, Puberty, Menstruation, Reproduction, Contraception, and STI Prevention

• Consent & Autonomy

• Healthy Relationships

• Diversity & Inclusion

• Media Literacy, Peer Pressure, and Digital Consent 

• Self-Esteem and Emotional Well-Being 

• And so much more. 

At the core, Comprehensive Sexuality Education gives people of all ages the tools to care for themselves, physically, emotionally, and in relationships. It’s education that evolves as the learner does, staying age-appropriate, and responsive to the times. (UNESCO, 2018; SIECUS, 2023) 

Research consistently shows that young people who receive comprehensive sexuality education are more likely to delay sex, use contraception effectively, and experience fewer unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (Santelli et al., 2017; Chin et al., 2012). 

Time and time again, it is proven that knowledge does not encourage risk, it protects against it. 

When individuals understand consent, bodily autonomy, and respect, they’re better equipped to recognize coercion and abuse. Studies indicate that CSE programs with strong consent and communication components reduce rates of sexual violence and harrassment (DeGue et al., 2014). 

By encouraging open dialogue and body positivity, comprehensive programs promote stronger self-image, emotional regulation, and empathy towards others (UNFPA, 2021). When people understand their own needs and values, they’re less likely to experience shame, and more likely to experience confidence and connection. 

Comprehensive Sexuality Education helps close knowledge gaps for marginalized populations, including LGBTQIA+ youth, youth of color, and those in rural or underserved areas, who are often excluded from health education (SIECUS, 2023).

Comprehensive Sexuality Education doesn’t compete with the role of parents, it is meant to complement it. Families remain the primary source of values and guidance, but schools can ensure that every student, regardless of their home environment, receives medically accurate, unbiased information. In fact, studies show that CSE programs strengthen family communication by helping young people feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics at home (Eisenberg et al., 2008).

At SHE+, we’re committed to advancing the science and accessibility of Comprehensive Sexuality Education through research, advocacy, and collaboration. Our work focuses on ensuring that the educational resources we amplify and provide are evidence-based, equitable, and collaborative.

We believe that when young people understand their bodies and choices, they grow into adults who can advocate for themselves, in relationships, in healthcare, and in life.

The Comprehensive Sexuality Guidelines inform our SHE+ Explain's Video Series. Watch Here!