Cultural Diversity and Sex

Cultural and Religious Diversity and Sex

The Link Ottawa is managed by Ottawa Public Health (OPH). OPH is committed to respecting cultural and religious diversity. We recognize that young adults are in a transitional period of their life; a time for developing and exploring their gender and sexual identity. We strive to ensure that the services we provide are inclusive and are free of discrimination. We embrace diversity at all levels including ethno-cultural identity, gender identity, immigration status, and sexual orientation.

Cultural, Religious, and Personal Beliefs

Diffefrent cultures and religions have different values and norms about sex. There are also a lot of different personal beliefs about what sex is, what it means, and how it relates to your identity. A person's culture, religion, or beliefs can be a driving forces in shaping their sex life. Whether you are religious, follow cultural practices, or neither of the latter, your sex life is your to explore. That being said, sometimes different views or perspectives on sex in your family, friend group, and/or religious or cultural community can potentially be a source of stress or conflict. Also, people's experience with status, power, and priviledge can affect their perspective and comfort level towards sex. If you need support with coping with stress, feel that your safety may be compromised, or are experiencing challenges, check out our How to Ask for Help page. 

Relationships Can be Diverse Too

The definition of a relationship is very different for everyone. How much time you spend together, how you bond, and how you communicate, can vary from relationship to relationship. What the movies show or the stories that books tell, isn't always the type of relationship that is right for you. Here are the definitions of a few types of relationships that show the diversity that exits in some relationships:

• Monogamy: the practice or state of having a sexual relationship with only 1 partner at a time.
• Open relationships: a relationship in which both partners agree that each may have sexual relations with others.
• Polyamory: intimate relationships where individuals may have more than one partner, with the consent and knowledge of all partners.

Virginity

A virgin is someone who has never had sex. The term "sex" can be defined differently by a person's personal beliefs, cultural influences, faith, and values. It may seem like there is a lot of pressure around you about virginity, but makng the choice to be a virgin or not, is entirely yours. And don't be mistaken, consent must be enthusiastic and ongoing, so you can always change you mind about the decision you make. You have the power to make your own decisions about your mind and body, so make sure you have the information you need to be safer. Go check out our Healthy Relationships section for more information on making the right choices for you.