What is sexual wellbeing?

Sexual wellbeing is defined as:

…… feeling respected, safe, at ease and supported, while also having a sense of self-worth and agency, in relation to sex and sexuality. Sexual wellbeing is integral to consensual, healthy and pleasurable sexual experiences and relationships. A person’s sexual wellbeing is shaped by the people around them and their environment, including sexual partners, family, friends, education and health systems, media, laws, faith-based and cultural norms. (Lewis et al., 2026)

The sexual wellbeing framework

The framework of sexual wellbeing below, was designed via a Delphi consensus process involving experts from Scotland and internationally. The full process is described in this paper.

Consensus Framework of sexual wellbeing with definition in centre, surrounded by six domain definitions and examples

This framework brings together elements of psychological wellbeing that are most relevant to sexuality. Importantly, it recognises that our sexual wellbeing is relevant at all stages of life, regardless of age, sexual experience or relationship status. Sexual wellbeing is not a fixed state, it reflects about how people think and feel about sex and their sexuality over time. These thoughts and feelings can change, improving or worsening in response to life events, relationships and interventions.

The concept of sexual wellbeing helps us to understand the connections between sexual behaviour, sexual health and mental health.

Learn more

You can read more about the development of this conceptual framework of sexual wellbeing here, and about qualitative research exploring sexual wellbeing among adults in the UK here.

This conceptual framework was used to develop a 13-item measure of sexual wellbeing for adults aged 16 and over (Natsal-SW). You can read about how the measure was developed and validated here.

A 13-item measure of sexual wellbeing was also developed for adolescents aged 14-19 (Adol-SW). You can read about how this measure was developed and validated with young people here.

If you would like to use the Natsal-SW or the Adol-SW in your study, please contact kirstin.mitchell@glasgow.ac.uk for permission.