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Sex isn’t exactly a sterile activity. Sharing bodily fluids is inherently messy, and while it can be thrilling, it can also pose health risks. We don’t share toothbrushes with our partners, yet we readily exchange kisses. The rules surrounding sexual hygiene may seem odd, but they are crucial for maintaining your health—whether you are engaging with a partner or enjoying some solo time. Here are seven important sexual hygiene rules to follow, and remember, communication and consent are vital components of a fulfilling sexual experience.
1. Get Tested for STIs
If you’re involved with multiple sexual partners, make it a habit to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) regularly. Encourage your partners to do the same. While condoms and dental dams can significantly lower the risk, they don’t eliminate it completely. Regular testing helps catch infections early before they cause serious harm. If you do test positive, be upfront with your partner.
2. Clean Your Hands and Genitals
This one might seem straightforward, but washing your hands, genitals, and any other intimate areas with soap and water is essential. This practice helps to eliminate harmful bacteria that could lead to infections like UTIs or yeast infections. For those with uncircumcised penises, it’s particularly important to clean beneath the foreskin to prevent bacterial buildup. Just think about where your hands have been and the environment your genitals have been in all day. Gross, right?
3. Speak Up About Any Changes
You or your partner might be the only ones examining certain body parts during intimate moments. If you notice anything unusual—such as redness, lumps, or rashes—don’t ignore it. Communicating about these changes can prevent potential health issues.
4. Maintain Cleanliness with Sex Toys
There’s no stigma around using sex toys, but they do require proper cleaning and storage. Just like body parts, toys can harbor bacteria and infections. If sharing toys with a partner, ensure you either clean them between uses or cover them with a condom. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning, and always pay attention to any nooks or surfaces where bacteria can hide. Store your toys in a safe and clean place after use.
5. Avoid Cross-Contamination After Anal Play
If you and your partner enjoy anal play, it’s essential to understand that the rectum contains bacteria that can cause infections. Therefore, never transition directly from anal to vaginal penetration without changing the condom, cleaning the toy, or washing your hands. This precaution helps protect against infections.
6. Urinate After Sex
Whether you’ve engaged in vaginal penetration or not, urinating after sex helps flush out any bacteria that may have gathered near the urethra, thus reducing the risk of UTIs. For those with penises, it’s not as critical, but still advisable. If anal sex is involved, urinating afterward helps remove any potentially harmful bacteria.
7. Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a vital role in your sexual health. Dehydration can lead to issues like erectile dysfunction and vaginal dryness, which are less than ideal for intimacy. Keeping lube handy can also enhance your experience by reducing friction and lowering the risk of injuries or condom breakage. Make sure to choose a lubricant that is compatible with your body and any toys you may be using.
Hopefully, these tips are already part of your routine, but they serve as a good reminder. No one wants to deal with a UTI or any other infection. It’s important to expect the same level of hygiene from your partners; mutual consent regarding STI testing, clean hands, and sanitized toys is just as vital as the physical acts that follow. For more information on home insemination, check out this useful resource, and learn more about pregnancy at the CDC.
Summary
Maintaining sexual hygiene is essential for preventing infections and ensuring a healthy intimate life. Regular STI testing, proper cleaning of hands and toys, and open communication about any health changes are critical steps. Staying hydrated also contributes positively to sexual health. These practices should be expected from all partners to promote a safe and enjoyable experience.