Health and sexuality education in the daily lives of people with intellectual disabilities: experience report

Abstract

Objective: To report an educational experience on personal hygiene, self-care, sexuality, prevention of unwanted pregnancy, and interpersonal relationships in the daily lives of people with intellectual disabilities, highlighting sexuality as a tool for dialogue and an essential element for promoting reproductive health. Experience report: The intervention took place in an institution dedicated to serving people with intellectual disabilities and was conducted by health students using accessible and participatory strategies. Group discussions, practical demonstrations, and visual materials were employed to address anatomy, hygiene, and contraceptive methods. Participants actively engaged, asking questions and sharing experiences, which revealed the lack of safe spaces to discuss sexuality. The environment fostered trust, emotional expression, and awareness of self-care as part of holistic health. Final considerations: The experience emphasized the importance of sexual education in promoting autonomy and reducing vulnerability among individuals with intellectual disabilities. It also enriched students’ social sensitivity and professional responsibility, reinforcing the role of university extension in fostering inclusion and respect for human diversity. The project reaffirmed sexuality as a fundamental dimension of health and human development.