Recently on my Facebook page, I shared an article about all the fabulous things vaginas are capable of. It invoked a few different responses from some of the people who follow along, and those questions got me to thinking that a quick refresher on sexual health might be helpful for some of us folks. After all, a healthy sex life does not mean simply engaging in the act multiple times a week.
So here are five ways to maintain your sexual health and positively contribute to your partners sexual health as well:
1. Get tested regularly
Whether or not you are using condoms, I always suggest that staying up to date with STI testing is in your (and anyone you are having sex with) best interests. If you are not fluid bonded (you only have unprotected sex with each other) with your partner, use protection every time. If you are in a monogamous relationship, I still recommend getting testing with your regular yearly check up. And of course, if something seems off, then by all means go and see your doctor sooner.
2. Communicate
Communication is key to your sexual health not only in terms of speaking up for your comfort and pleasure, but it is also important for STI prevention. If your test came back positive, let the people or person you are having sex with know so they can get tested and potentially treated. No need to be embarrassed, this is a real part of being a responsible sexually active person.
3. Front to back, never back to front
This is very important for people who have vaginas and applies to more than just using the toilet. If any bacteria from the back gets into the front you will be dealing with a nasty infection, most commonly known as bacterial vaginosis. No one wants that, so keep it clean and be careful not to double-dip.
4. Pee after sex
This goes for everyone. During the deed, all sorts of bacteria can get pushed up into the urethra and create the perfect environment for a UTI (bladder infection). When you pee immediately after sex you help to flush out the urethra and lower your chances of infection.
5. Keep it clean
I am not talking about your mind or your language here, by all means, keep that dirty. Before getting into sexy time, be sure you have cleaned your toys, trimmed your nails, washed your hands and washed under your foreskin (if you have any). Leaving any of these details “un-sudsed” can lead to infections and other unpleasantries, not to mention the pleasure factor (who wants jagged or dirty fingernails caressing their most precious parts or funky smells coming at you?).
This compilation is the top of my list of suggestions, but perhaps you have a few more to add to the list. Ultimately, your sexual health is your responsibility to maintain, however we could all benefit from looking at it as more of a community effort.
Niseema Emery is a certified intimacy and relationship coach in Powell River.
