Women’s History Month: Celebrating UK Trailblazers in Sexual Well-Being
Women’s History Month is a powerful reminder of the incredible contributions women have made across society, especially in areas that were once taboo, misunderstood, or ignored. Sexual well-being isn’t just about physical health, it’s about autonomy, education, pleasure, consent, and the freedom to know, express, and protect ourselves.
Here in the UK, powerful voices have shaped everything from contraception access to inclusive sex education and survivor support. At www.nicennaughty.co.uk, we believe sexual well-being is about confidence, knowledge, autonomy and joy, values these remarkable women helped bring into the mainstream.
So this March, let’s celebrate the British pioneers who changed the conversation.
Marie Stopes: Contraception Campaigner
One of the earliest advocates for birth control in Britain, Marie Stopes opened the UK’s first birth control clinic in London in 1921. Her work helped normalise conversations around contraception and reproductive choice.
Today, her legacy continues through MSI Reproductive Choices (formerly Marie Stopes International), which provides contraception and abortion care globally.
Learn more: https://www.msichoices.org.uk - Discover Marie Stopes Birth Control Pioneer
Tuppy Owens – Sexual Freedom & Disability Rights Advocate
A groundbreaking sex educator and activist, Tuppy Owens championed sexual rights for disabled people and older adults at a time when such topics were rarely discussed publicly.
She founded the Outsiders Club, promoting sexual inclusion and dignity for all.
Learn more about Tuppy Owens - Discover the Outsiders Trust
Dr Petra Boynton – Evidence-Based Sex Education
A social psychologist and media commentator, Dr Petra Boynton has worked extensively to improve how sex and relationships are discussed in UK media and education. She challenges myths and promotes science-based, shame-free dialogue around intimacy.
Pavan Amara – Reclaiming Pleasure After Trauma
Founder of the My Body Back Project, Pavan Amara created a vital support network for survivors of sexual violence to access trauma-informed healthcare and reclaim sexual wellbeing.
Her work has reshaped how services approach post-assault care in the UK.
Meg-John Barker – Expanding the Conversation on Identity & Relationships
A writer, therapist and academic, Meg-John Barker has helped bring discussions of gender diversity, non-monogamy, and queer relationships into mainstream awareness. Their books and public speaking have broadened the UK’s understanding of inclusive sexual wellbeing.
Why Their Work Still Matters
The women above didn’t just change policy, they changed culture. They: Opened access to contraception: Demanded inclusive sex education: Supported survivors: Validated pleasure and autonomy: Challenged stigma around disability, gender and sexuality. Their work laid foundations for a more open, informed and empowered society.
At www.nicennaughty.co.uk, we continue that legacy by supporting confident self-expression, sexual knowledge, and body positivity, helping people explore safely, respectfully and without shame.
This Women’s History Month
Let’s celebrate the women who made it easier to: Talk openly, seek support, prioritise pleasure and own our bodies. Because sexual wellbeing isn’t a luxury, it’s part of living fully.
Share Your Story
Who inspires you? Tag your heroes in your Women’s History Month posts and join a community of voices uplifting sexual health, freedom, and empowerment.