Why Sexual Health Education Still Matters for Gen Z

3 days ago 8

February 10, 2026 | 07:31 am

Illustration of a Gen Z couple on the beach. Photo: Freepik

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Sexual health education is still often considered a taboo topic, especially among Gen Z. Yet, this knowledge plays a significant role in fostering healthy, safe, and responsible relationships.

According to sexual education observer Dr. Haekal Anshar, the lack of open discussion means that understanding the importance of self-protection, communication with partners, and preventing reproductive health risks has not been fully accepted as part of a healthy lifestyle in modern society.

He believes that a positive and judgment-free delivery method is key to ensuring messages about sexual health are accepted, especially by young people or Gen Z.

"Today's generation has extensive access to information. However, many still feel awkward discussing sexual health. If education is delivered openly, relevantly, and without judgment, people will understand that self-protection is part of maintaining physical and mental health, not just about contraception," he said.

Haekal added that the use of protection in relationships should be seen as a shared responsibility, for both the individual and the partner. In addition to helping prevent unplanned pregnancies, protection is also important for reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and maintaining long-term reproductive health.

In line with this view, experiential education methods are now being introduced to reach the modern generation. This approach prioritizes interaction, open communication, and direct involvement so that health messages feel relevant to everyday life.

Holly Kwan, Senior Chief Marketer at Okamoto Industries (HK) Ltd., stated that sexual health education needs to be presented in a more humane and contextual manner. She emphasized that protection is not a barrier in relationships, but rather a form of caring for oneself and one's partner.

"Sexual health is part of quality of life. When protection is understood as a form of care and responsibility, relationships will feel safer, healthier, and more respectful," she said.

These educational efforts are also reinforced through various interactive spaces that discuss communication, psychological comfort, and reproductive health awareness. This method is considered effective because it combines knowledge with experience, so it doesn't feel patronizing.

Public figure Revina VT also sees a lighthearted and interactive approach as more acceptable to the current generation. "Topics that are usually considered sensitive can be understood in a relaxed manner when presented in a fun way. People become more open to learning and discussion," she said.

With the increasing openness of public conversations about sexual health, it is hoped that people will see this issue as a normal part of a healthy lifestyle, while also encouraging the birth of a generation that is more aware of health, responsibility, and the quality of interpersonal relationships.

Read: Study Shows Frequent Sexual Activity May Boost Mental Well-Being

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