The 6 Sexual Health Principles That Help You Explore Safely and Sensually

When we think about sexual health, it’s easy to go straight to thinking about STIs, contraception, or safe sex practices. But what if I told you there’s far more to it than that? In fact, six sexual health principles underline what sexual health, wellness and pleasure should represent when exploring our desires.

The principles below are tools for real-life pleasure exploration, whether you’re dipping your toe into kink, navigating new relationship dynamics, or deepening intimacy with yourself.

The ‘Six Principles of Sexual Health’ were developed by sex therapist Doug Braun-Harvey, adapted from the Pan American Health Association’s 2000 definition of sexual health. Rather than setting rigid rules, these principles offer a broad framework to help each of us define what sexual health means personally, on our terms, in our bodies, and within our unique experiences.

Let’s break them down.

1. Consent

Consent is number one for a reason because it isn’t just a one-time “yes.“ Consent is a continued mutual willingness and excitement that’s evident in both words and a person’s body language. When we think about consent, it’s important to be aware that some may find words difficult in the moment, so being aware of body language showing you no is also vital. Consent is also about creating a space where you and your partner(s) feel safe to express what you want, what you don’t, and what might be a tentative “maybe” or a definitive “no.”

💡 In sensual spaces, consent opens the door to creative exploration. When everyone’s truly on board, you’re not just ticking a box; you’re building trust, safety, and deeper connections where everyone is fulfilled.

2. Nonexploitation

Sexual health means making sure no one is being used or manipulated for someone else’s gain. This includes checking power dynamics and reassessing them regularly with each other. It could also involve ensuring everyone is on board, being honest about your or their intentions, and allowing all parties equal freedom to say no or change their mind.

💡 In D/s dynamics or any space involving power play, this principle becomes even more essential. Pleasure should never be extracted, only shared.

3. Protection

This principle is about being informed, equipped and educated, whether it’s using condoms, discussing STI status, or navigating fertility choices. Protection enables everyone involved to make informed decisions without fear of misinformation that could impact their health. Protection can look different for everyone, especially if it involves allergies or medication, so don’t be afraid to ask so you understand how everyone involved can feel safe and reassured.

💡 In sensual play, feeling safe in your body helps you surrender to the moment. And part of that safety comes from knowing you’re protected.

4. Honesty

Being sexually honest doesn’t mean telling every single detail about your sexual history. It means being honest with yourself and others about your desires, boundaries, and expectations. When you’re honest with yourself and others, you create space for curiosity and connection rather than assumptions and disconnected encounters that leave you feeling empty.

💡 Many people struggle to voice their fantasies or needs. But naming what you want is a liberating step toward receiving it.

5. Shared Values

Every sexual connection is made more meaningful when you understand each other’s values. What does this experience mean for you? Is it about love, lust, healing, play, intimacy or something else? When values align, or at least are acknowledged, you avoid confusion. It can be a powerful experience to explore and own your own values with confidence.

💡 This is especially important in casual sex, non-monogamy, or kink communities, where clear intentions build a stronger container for pleasure.

6. Mutual Pleasure

Mutual pleasure is what it’s all about, right? It’s not about a race to climax or perform in a certain way, but about being aware of each other’s enjoyment and intentions in the moment. Sensual exploration should be a co-created journey filled with curiosity, communication, trust, exploration and even laughter and fun. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, check-in and step out of the box of ‘expectations’ and into ‘what do I actually want right now.’

💡 This principle invites you to slow down, check in, and expand your definition of what pleasure can look and feel like for you and them.

April Maria

Author

April Maria is a qualified sex educator, sex and relationships coach and training psychosexual and relationships therapist. For the last four years, April has been working in the field of sex education, sex tech and pleasure, endometriosis awareness and helping others when it comes to sexual wellness, intimacy, dating and relationships.