Collaborating with Sexy Emporium, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Gigi Engle, a certified sex educator renowned for her expertise in sex work and sex education. Delve into her valuable insights as she shares advice for sex workers and those seeking a comprehensive understanding of sexual health.
How Sex Workers Can Elevate Sexual Health and Well-being
Gigi's Perspective: Firstly, it's crucial to note that it isn't inherently a sex worker's duty to educate clients on sexual health. However, if this is a service you offer and are paid to provide, it can be a valuable addition. It's the client's responsibility to do their own research, and we have a great article about that on our blog.
If you're a sex worker interested in educating clients on sexual health and well-being, go for it! A comprehensive sex ed skillset is essential for sex workers.
Why Clarity and Confidence Matter for Sex Workers: Safer sex practices, use of contraceptives, negotiating and communicating boundaries, cultivating a professional atmosphere, and enhancing sexual pleasure are all crucial aspects. A well-informed client base fosters a stronger professional reputation and ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Key Topics in Comprehensive Sex Education
Gigi's Take on Essential Sex Ed Topics:
1. Pleasure-based Sex Ed
Gigi's Words: At the core of comprehensive sex education is a focus on pleasure. Sexuality education shouldn't just highlight the risks but celebrate the joys of sex. It teaches that sex is normal, fun, and can be enjoyed by consenting adults. It's the opposite of shame-based or abstinence-only sex ed.
2. Sexual Health and Safety
Gigi's Insights: Sexual health and safety are vital components of comprehensive sex education. While pleasure is essential, we can't ignore discussing the risks. Education around safer sex practices, contraception, consent, boundaries, and communication is crucial for sexually healthy experiences.
3. Anatomy Education
Gigi's Thoughts: Learning about your anatomy is crucial for feeling connected to your body. Current sex ed tends to focus on traditional views, leaving out the diversity of bodies. We need to educate people fully about their bodies to make better sexual health and wellness decisions.
4. Queer Sex Education
Gigi's Advocacy: Current sex ed is often cis-heteronormative, leaving out the diversity of sexual experiences. We need more inclusive education to provide a full understanding of sexual diversity and dismantle stigmas surrounding non-heteronormative practices.
5. Masturbation Awareness
Gigi's Emphasis: Masturbation is a normal and healthy form of sexual expression. It's the safest form of sex with zero risk for STIs or pregnancy. It deserves to be highlighted as something completely fine to do. I'm not saying let's teach kids to masturbate, but let's express that it's okay, and you're not shameful for engaging with it.
About Gigi Engle
Gigi's Introduction: I'm Gigi Engle, ACS, CSE, CSC, an award-winning feminist author, certified sex coach, sexologist, and sex educator. As a brand expert with Lifestyle Condoms, I promote pleasure-based sex education, masturbation, and safer sex practices. My work appears in publications like Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Elle Magazine, Teen Vogue, Glamour, and Women's Health. In 2019, I was named Journalist of The Year at the Sexual Freedom Awards.
