The first time I learned about sex and sexual health in an academic setting — other than furtive whispers and giggles tinged with embarrassment at the back of the classroom — was in a stuffy auditorium in my middle school, where sixth grade girls were invited to watch a poorly acted educational video about periods, sexually transmitted diseases, and pregnancy. We were promptly sent home after the video ended, and although I was very confused and anxious when my Korean immigrant mother picked me up, it was agreed that we would never speak to each other about these taboo topics. I’d like to say sex education has evolved in the last two decades, but the truth is the stigma (and politics) around sex still prevents an open forum for these topics.
It’s ironic when we consider the sexualization and fetishization of Asian women in the media, when, on the other hand, many Asian American immigrant parents are not equipped or comfortable talking to us about sex. Like many girls and children of immigrants, I grew up with countless misconceptions and shame around my body and sexual identity, which made me more vulnerable to sexual assault and other risks to my physical and mental health. Research has shown that abstinence-only programs do not actually successfully reduce teen pregnancy and STD rates, and quality sexual education is key to promoting health and safety.
The good news is there are now social media initiatives, like Asians for Sex Positivity, advocating for open discussions in our communities. As I enter my 30s, I’m realizing just how much I had to learn “the hard way” outside of the classroom, and it’s exactly this knowledge that I hope will arm future generations of Asian Americans to feel happy, healthy, and safe.
9 Things I Wish I’d Learned in Sex Ed as a Young Asian American Woman
- About different birth control options
Every body reacts differently to birth control, so it’s important to research and find the right one for you, especially…
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