ALESSANDRIA – The Alexandrian section of the Italian Association of Women Doctors has proposed to various high schools in the city a free training offer plan for a sexual and sentimental education course addressed to fifth grades. A fifth class class accepted the proposal.Alexandria International School and one ofUmberto Eco Institute of Higher Education. The Sexual and Sentimental Education course, lasting two hourswas held in the months of April and May 2024 by the doctor Esther Botto (photo), councilor of the association, General Practitioner, Andrologist and currently training as a Sexual Consultant. He based himself on Standards for Sexuality Education in Europe published by the World Health Organization.
The lesson began by explaining to the students how sexual and sentimental education is aimed at to personal growth. In fact, it means learning the cognitive, emotional, social, relational and physical aspects of sexuality. Sexuality education according to the WHO is based in fact on sexual human rights, to which a part of the lesson was dedicated, and on a holistic concept of well-being. Stands firmly on the principles of gender equity, self-determination and acceptance of diversity. Finally, it must be understood as a contribution towards a just and supportive society.
Using an interactive teaching method focused on the active participation of young studentsaccurate scientific information was then provided on the anatomy of the male and female genitals and on prevention. In particular, Dr. Esther Botto spoke prevention of breast and testicular cancer and sexually transmitted infections with a focus on anti-papillomavirus vaccination. Furthermore, the course touched on the theme of pregnancy, whether desired or not, and the methods of accessing consultancy services and health services. A large space was given to sentimental education using a role-playing game to address the concept of personal space and consent.
“As the Italian Association of Women Doctors in the province of Alessandria” the doctor underlined Federica Grossopresident of the Alessandria section of the AIDM and head of the Mesothelioma and Rare Tumors SSD of the AOU SS Antonio e Biagio and Cesare Arrigo, “we felt the need, especially in light of the latest rapes and feminicides involving very young victims, to propose to schools a free training plan on the topic of sexual and sentimental education.”
Dr. Botto Esther, who held the course, continues: “Sexuality education must be aimed at providing a positive perspective the skills necessary to manage aspects of sexuality and relationships. It puts children and young people in a position to make choices that they improve the quality of their lives and contribute to a supportive and just society. At the end of the course many boys and girls asked me questions that underline how great the current need is for careful and widespread sexual and sentimental education aimed at children, adolescents and young adults”.
Dr. Grosso and Dr. Botto with the entire AIDM section of Alessandria hope to be able to continue this project with the schools in the coming years, which in this first experience had a very positive responseor. For further information you can contact them via email [email protected]
