Whatever type of sex you’re into, these tips should stand you in good stead for a happy, healthy sex life.
1. Take your time
Remember that vaginas sometimes need more attention before penetration, and this is worth the investment. Making sure your partner is well lubricated (naturally or otherwise) will make sex easier and more comfortable, and will make sure that you don’t do any damage to the vagina.
2. Don’t slip up
Lube is everyone’s best friend, especially if you’re having anal sex. The more lube you use, the safer the sex. Little tears in the lining of the anus mean that infection spreads more easily. Ideally you should use a condom as well as lube to have sex with a partner whose STI status you don’t know. If you are using a condom or a silicone sex toy, use a water-based lube. Find out more about how to safely use lube here.
3. Say "I do"
Verbal consent is so important, and so sexy - what’s more of a turn on than someone telling you to your face that they want to get it on with you?
4. Don’t mess with the flora and fauna
Don’t douche! Vaginal douching is a bad idea because it gets rid of the good bacteria in your vagina. Vaginas have a delicate pH balance and upsetting this could lead to a few unpleasant days spent drinking copious amounts of sodium citrate and taking painkillers before you pee.
5. This one wee trick
If you’ve had sex which involved putting anything in your vagina then it’s a good idea to wee afterwards. This can help stop bacteria which can lead to unpleasant UTIs from getting into your urethra.
6. Good lip service
STIs can be spread in all sorts of different ways so if you’re having vaginal or anal oral sex, use a dental dam. A dental dam is a thin layer of latex that stops your mouth from coming into contact with your partner’s genitals. The best thing about them is that they are designed to make your experience safer without making it feel any less pleasurable.
7. Dress for the occasion
Remember that being on long lasting contraception will stop you from getting pregnant but it won’t stop you from contracting an STI. If you’re trying to get pregnant, make sure that you and your partner both test first, and if babies aren’t on the cards it might be safer to use a condom.
8. Sexpress yourself
Communication during sex is a great way of making sure that everyone has a good time. Asking your partner questions about whether they’re enjoying themselves can be sexy and people who are on the same page are more likely to have great, mutually fulfilling sex.
9. Play nice
Sex toys can be great fun in all sorts of different contexts. They can be fun to use alone and with a partner. They can also be more pleasurable or women who don’t usually climax during intercourse. It is important to keep sex toys clean though to prevent the spread of infection. An easy way of cleaning silicone sex toys is to run them through the dishwasher or sterilise them in boiling water.
10. Don’t panic
Had an accident? No stress. Find out about window periods from our website, then order a test kit and test yourself at home for STI’s.