Sexuality is an important area of debate in women’s studies and political processes because it is closely connected with power, identity, rights, social norms and control over women’s bodies. Sexuality does not simply refer to sexual behaviour; it also includes sexual identity, desire, relationships, reproduction and the social meanings attached to them. Feminist scholars have shown that sexuality is shaped by political, cultural and economic structures rather than being merely a private matter. One major debate concerns the relationship between sexuality and patriarchy. Patriarchal societies have historically attempted to regulate women’s sexuality through marriage, family norms, religion, customs and legal institutions. Women are often expected to remain sexually modest and faithful, while similar standards may not be imposed equally on men. Practices such as child marriage,