When people hear the term "sex education," many in Japan still feel a little embarrassed or hesitant. School education only provides partial knowledge to children who have just entered puberty, and often only covers contraception and infection prevention. Important topics like "knowing your own body" and "self-care methods" are not adequately covered, and sex has been treated as something to be ashamed of.
Meanwhile, overseas, sex education is seen as part of "health education" and "wellness." In the Netherlands, children are taught from an early age the ability to make their own decisions, such as "taking care of their own bodies" and "saying no to things they don't like." In Nordic countries, diverse sexualities and gender equality are naturally taught, while in the United States and Canada, in addition to contraception and sexually transmitted diseases, the importance of relationships and consent is also taught. Sex is an essential element of life, and it is commonly taken for granted that it is deeply connected to physical and mental health and quality of life.
These differences stem from cultural backgrounds. In Japan, sex has long been considered taboo, and even talking about it has been avoided. As a result, many young people rely on unreliable information obtained from the internet or rumors. In contrast, overseas, there is a widespread understanding that "not talking about it is what leads to risk," and the value that talking openly protects children is deeply rooted.
However, positive changes are beginning to occur in Japan as well. Education that focuses on gender and diversity is gradually spreading, and thanks to the activities of NPOs and civic groups, dissemination through social media, and the spread of femtech, it is now easier to obtain information about one's own body and sexual health. The development of the femcare field, which includes menstrual and vaginal care and menopausal support, is also beginning to redefine sex education as something directly linked to "women's health."
Sex education is not simply about acquiring knowledge. It is also a life skill that helps people understand their own bodies, care for their minds, and build healthier relationships with others. In other words, it is an essential learning foundation for wellness. Japan needs to move forward by striving to create a society in which children naturally understand their own bodies and build relationships that foster mutual respect.
