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Tips for a healthy & happy sex life

A healthy, happy sex life starts with good sexual health. Prioritising your wellbeing and making informed choices can help ensure both you and your partner enjoy a fulfilling, safe, and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential tips for a positive sexual relationship.

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Condoms: A key step in protecting yourself

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex – even through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Using protection is one of the most important ways to safeguard against STIs.

Here’s how you can stay protected:

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Use male or female condoms for penetrative sex.
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Use condoms or dental dams for oral sex.
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Male condoms are worn over the penis.
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Female condoms are inserted into the vagina.
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Dental dams are squares of soft, thin plastic that protect the genitals or anus during oral sex.

For maximum protection and safety, always follow these guidelines:

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Ensure your condoms haven’t expired or been damaged.
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Never use two condoms at once – this can cause friction and breakages.
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Stick to water-based lubricants as oil-based lubricants can weaken condoms and lead to breakage.

If you’re using sex toys, make sure to wash them thoroughly or cover them with a fresh condom between uses to prevent the spread of infections.

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Be Aware of STI Symptoms

If you or your partner notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to avoid sex until you seek medical advice:

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Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
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Unexplained bleeding from the vagina
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Painful urination
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Growths, sores, or blisters around the genitals or anus
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Itching around the genitals

Some STIs, like genital herpes, are spread through skin-to-skin contact, so condoms alone may not provide full protection in such cases. If you notice blisters or growths, avoid contact until you have clarity on your health status.

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Contraception: Preventing Pregnancy

If you’re in a stable relationship and not concerned about STIs, you might choose to have sex without a condom. However, it's important to use contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Options include:

  • The combined pill or the mini-pill.
  • Intrauterine devices (IUD) or IUS for longer-term protection.

In the case of unprotected sex, emergency contraception, such as the morning-after pill, can be accessed from a pharmacy, GP surgery, or sexual health clinic within a few days of intercourse.

Enjoying a Fulfilling Sex Life

A happy sex life is not just about physical health – it’s about feeling comfortable, happy, and secure. To keep things positive:

  • Communicate openly with your partner about desires and fantasies.
  • Experiment with lubricants and sex toys to enhance pleasure.
  • Take your time and relax; it’s not just about the physical act but about the emotional connection.