Dr. Eva Jackson, MBBS, FAChSHM
Sexual Health Physician
What is Sexual Health?
The World Health Organisation has a beautiful definition of sexual health, some may find it long, but it is all encompassing and acknowledges that sexual health has many components.
“Sexual Health is a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.”
The way in which I practice Sexual Health Medicine is holistic and I consider all these components in a consultation.
What is a Sexual Health Physician?
We are trained as doctors in the usual way. Four to six years in medical school, one year internship, minimum five years in residency and registrar training in our chosen speciality. Sexual Health Physicians are accredited through the Chapter of Sexual Health Medicine, which is part of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
What makes Sexual Health Physician different from other doctors?
Most of our practice could be done by general practitioners, gynaecologist, urologists, dermatologists, infectious disease physicians, immunologist and the list goes on. However there was a recognition that many doctors (and the community in general) find it difficult to discuss sexual health matters amongst themselves and their patients.