3 Things You Should Know About Sexual Health
You may think you’re pretty clued up when it comes to sex and keeping your wellbeing in check. However, there could be certain facts that you’re not aware of. With this in mind, here are three important points that you should know when it comes to your sexual health
- You might not know if you have an STI
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be passed from one person to another during unprotected sexual intercourse or genital contact. While you may experience some discomfort as a result of these conditions, there are STIs that can go undetected as they have few or no symptoms at all. This means you could have contracted something and you might not even be aware of it. For example, chlamydia is one of the most common STIs, but many people with this infection will not experience any symptoms. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious long-term health problems, such as infertility or pelvic inflammation.
Whether you’re single or in a relationship, it is recommended to get yourself tested regularly. If you find you have an STI, there are various treatments available. Your GP or a reputable online pharmacy such as https://onlinedoctor.lloydspharmacy.com should be able to offer you an effective medication to tackle the issue. Getting yourself tested is not only beneficial for your sexual health, but it will give you peace of mind too.
- Only condoms can protect you against both pregnancy and STIs
From the pill, to vaginal rings, to hormone injections, there are various forms of contraception for you to choose from. However, did you know condoms are the only type of contraception that can protect you against both pregnancy and STIs? While other methods of birth control are effective in preventing pregnancy, they cannot stop you from catching an STI. So, to make sure you’re fully protected, you may want to use condoms alongside your usual choice of contraception.
- Going to the bathroom after sex could prevent a UTI
After you’ve engaged in sexual intercourse, it may seem natural to remain close to your special someone or even fall asleep. However, making a trip to the bathroom after your time between the sheets could help reduce your risk of contracting a urinary tract infection (UTI). A UTI develops when bacteria enters the urinary tract via the urethra, which can happen following intercourse. This infection can cause you extreme discomfort and a burning sensation when urinating, as well as the feeling of needing to urinate often. While a UTI can be easily treated with antibiotics, make sure you clean yourself up and empty your bladder after sex to stop this from happening.
By simply being aware of these three points, you should be able to keep your sexual health and overall well being on track.