Sexuality is understood in terms of Sexual identification, Sociological identification and Sexual Orientation which in turn could either be Heterosexual, Homosexual or even Bisexual. A society would usually have a majority of Heterosexuals; it however does not go to say that the other arrays of sexual orientation would not be present.

While Heterosexuality which prefers relationships of the opposite sex is on one end, Homosexualty which prefers the same sex is on the other. There are 5 other sections in between these two extremes.

What determines a person’s sexual orientation?

The reasons behind a person’s sexual orientation may vary and it is usually linked with different stages of life which one has passed when growing up: excessive attachment of the mother, loss of adequate paternal love and care in addition to the feeling of competition in terms of parental affection among siblings and the sentiment of defeat which may follow can be some of the many reasons that would further nurture one’s sexual orientation.

However while all of the above reasons are probable, we all can make certain choices that could help control such situations.

Do genes contribute towards Homosexuality. Is there a gay gene?

Yes, if a family member is/was a homosexual then there is a high chance that another person with that same sexual orientation may follow. In addition Bio diversity may also have an impact homosexuality. Eg: a lack of the Androgen hormone may cause homosexuality.

Are there social risks entailing homosexuality, if so what are they?

On personal level, homosexuality may cause medical conditions relating to STD’s. At present we detect around 20 HIV patients per month in 91´«Ã½ and approximately 80% of these patients are homosexuals between the ages of 25-29. Furthermore, a person with such a sexual orientation may have to face severe mental and social concerns at the hands of marriage and relationships. These reasons could even drive a person towards committing suicide which again is a serious concern regarding this matter.

Should we Legalize Homosexuality?

Certain international communities have legalized and are under the impression that legalizing homosexuality is the way to go. This notion is hard to agree with since this is a condition that can be controlled under correct supervision and advice. Therefore I believe that this is a situation we should tackle with and through knowledge.

Watch video on Homosexuality – Japura Media speaks to DrÌýShantha Hettiarachchi

by Dr. Shantha Hettiarachchi
Chief Medical Officer of the 91´«Ã½

The post Understanding Homosexuality and Sexual Orientation Ìý appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ã½.

What is an Abortion?

It the process of removing a fetus before 28 weeks of pregnancy; which is currently a sensational but serious topic of discussion debated on socio-cultural and religious forums.

An abortion could take place due to both natural and intentional influences; the latter being the complex one since it is illegal, unsafe and ‘unrighteous’ according to local socio-political norms, hence creating a need for education, awareness and serious discussion of the matter in order to avoid such instances.

What qualifies as an illegal, unsafe abortion?

According to the legal system in 91´«Ã½, an abortion is recognized on legal forums only if the pregnancy is to affect the mother’s life.Ìý All conditions beyond this realm are considered illegal. Thus an illegal, unsafe or rather ‘unjust’ abortion is one which is conducted with no medical nor natural reasoning but one that is purely based on one’s own personal choice influenced by either the pregnant lady itself or other external socio-cultural forces.

Even though the law at present does not acknowledge the mother’s educational, social or psychological position which may drive them towards a decision as such, there is an ongoing debate which favors this rule to be reconsidered and altered up to a certain extent. However since no such measures are legalized as yet, we should be aware of the consequences that entail an illegal abortion.

Why are illegal abortions ‘unsafe’?

• Illegal abortions are conducted in secret at unauthorized institutions which most of the time would not be equipped with a qualified team of medical officers capable of performing such a sensitive operation.
• Entrusting the’ black market’ with such great responsibility could result in fatal conditions such as, profuse bleeding or unbearable pain due to negligence, germs entering the bloodstream and creating further complications such as Septicemia and quite frequently even death.
• Many aspects are taken into consideration when conducting even the most simplest of operations generally. We ensure that the environment and equipment are free of germs and other bacteria etc. Therefore it is questionable if such standards are maintained at substandard institutions as such.
• On the long run, these could even lead to STD’s if the equipment are not fully sterilized.

Hence it is clear that avoiding such uneducated decisions are the better option. Thus it is important that the youth are aware of reproductive health.

What if my relationship is a ‘done deal’?

Even if you believe your relationship strong enough to stand the test of time, avoid extreme physical intimacy and if by any chance it does transcend to physically intimate levels, use protective measures.

If however you do conceive a child, encounter the matter at its earliest stages because the more time passes, the more complicated your situation will grow into; therefore speak to the necessary people and be aware of what your options are.

Watch Video in Sinhala Medium on Abortions

Read more on Preventing unwanted pregnancies and birth control methods
http://www.sjp.ac.lk/students/preventing-unwanted-pregnancies-and-birth-control-methods/Ìý

Your life is precious, priceless and irreplaceable therefore even though suicide may appear as your best and only solution, it never is and never will be. If you are at a crucial juncture of your life, Speak to the Right People from the Right Institutions and be informed.ÌýKnowledge is power so live with Wisdom and Celebrate the Beauty of Life!

by Dr. Shantha Hettiarachchi, Chief Medical Officer of the 91´«Ã½

The post How to Avoid Abortions – A guide to University students appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ã½.

• The menstrual cycle begins due to the hormonal changes that occur within the body of a girl child and it results in menstruation occurring every 28 days/monthly (approx.) However the this cycle may not be consistent and it may have certain unusual side effects. Is it a matter that one should be concerned of?

• The inconsistency of this cycle is quite natural and it depends from person to person, it shouldn’t at any time be adjudged by the usual calendar dates since such inconsistencies can go on even for years, therefore there’s no need to panic.
• Even an individual with regular menstrual cycles may undergo such a situation for reasons such as, sicknesses, tension and pressure, bodily changes (becoming fat/thin in an unusual way during a short time span) therefore bringing such situations back to normalcy could contribute towards having regular uninterrupted cycles.
• However if a person suffers from such inconsistent menstrual cycles for a long period of time, they can visit a clinic for women and get this simple test done wherein their abdomen will be scanned for any unusual behavior, complications etc. There aren’t any complications most of the time however if there is, medication is available thus there is no need to be overly anxious.

Is there a possibility to attract other diseases due to inconsistent menstrual cycles?

• No, however it may happen once in a blue moon and there is medication for such situations.

What are the common myths that surround this entire process?

• Virginity – Many believe that the virgin membrane has to be located and built in a certain way, however; according to medical sciences this is not so. The virgin membrane differs from person to person and it therefore should not be made priority in any relationship
• Menstrual Pains – this is common to almost everyone it usually resides as time goes by however if you’re in pain, taking a pain killer is not a problem
• Bathing during the menstrual cycle – Not doing so has no medical basis therefore it is advised that girls do carry on with their routines of bathing during this period since being hygienic is what is actually important
• Changing of food consumption during the menstrual period – there is no need for such a change just because one is menstruating. Eating healthy is an advice for life in general

Does puberty also affect boys? How so?

• Yes it does. Many tend to compare and be anxious over the size of their genitals. This is not considered as a medical condition and it should not be considered a problem at any point of one’s life.
• Looking for medication for such perceived problems is also a redundant task. There are doctors who claim to have medication for such conditions however those are false and one should not fall for such monetary traps.

The post Puberty: Concerns and Answers for youth appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ã½.