In the movies, sex is usually made to seem picture-perfect. But it isn’t usually as glamorous as it appears. It can get messy with body fluids, sweat, and saliva. Leah Millheiser, a clinical assistant professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, says that while some religious beliefs insist you wash your full body after, a whole-body shower is unnecessary, but some areas may need to be washed with water depending on the type of sex you’ve had. Experts share how to avoid some sexually transmitted Infections (STIs), through good sexual hygiene practices. From urinating after sex to cleaning sex toys, here are some helpful tips on what you should know about good sexual hygiene.
EMPTY YOUR BLADDER
Urinating after sex is recommended for both women and men to avoid infections like Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). For women, urinating before and right after is recommended, this is because the short distance between the openings of the urethra and the anus makes it easy for bacteria to reach the urinary opening and this may cause diseases.
CLEANING UP
You don’t have to hop out of bed and into the shower right away. If you wish to clean up for hygienic purposes, after sex, rinsing the genital area with water is enough. You can also use mild, unscented soap but avoid getting the soap on the inner labia or head of the penis. However, water alone is enough. Feminine spray and douches may end up irritating your privates. This also applies to the anus. Gently cleaning yourself after sex can protect both men and women from infections. Men with foreskin are advised to gently pull it back and wash underneath. Avoid douching, it can lead to more infections, as it upsets the natural balance of bacteria that protects the vagina. Also, wash your hands.
DRINK A GLASS OF WATER
After a roll in the hay, drinking water is very important. When you stay hydrated, you’ll pee more, which means that more bacteria will wash out of your body before infections can flare up.
PREGNANT? TAKE EXTRA CARE
It is usually safe to have sex during your pregnancy. But chances of getting infections such as UTIs at this time are high. It’s even more important to take care of the basics after sex, pee afterward, wash around your vagina, and drink water. It is important to encourage your partner to do the same.
SEX DURING YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE
According to research, just because you’re on your period doesn’t mean you have to forego sexual activity. For some women, sex during their menstrual cycle can be even more pleasurable than at other times. But before, make sure you understand the risks of STIs, other infections, and pregnancy, even while on your period. It is crucial to practice safe sex while you’re having your period because you could still get or transmit an STI, like HIV, during this time. Lauren Streicher, a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at North-western University’s Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, says that there are two reasons for this risk. "Any bodily fluid can carry HIV or other STIs, and during your period, the cervix opens slightly, which might allow viruses to pass through," she says.
CLEAN YOUR TOYS
Toys can be exciting. After you are done with them, make sure you clean them as they may carry bacteria, viruses, and fungi and could spread STIs and other infections. Clean your toys after every use, check the packaging for cleaning instructions, and do not share toys with others. Try to cover the toy with a new condom each time you use it.
