Catch the two-way flow
If you are unsure about partner’s sexual health status, meaning, whether they have any sexually transmitted diseases, try to prevent the exchange of bodily fluids like vaginal fluids and blood as these are the primary medium of transfer of infections and diseases. This can be ensured by using dental dams during oral sex; not sharing sex toys or washing them before and after sharing; ensuring there are no cuts inside your mouth if performing oral sex without dental dams.
Clip them
Well, this one is a basic hygiene pointer. But, it’s important to have your fingernails trimmed so you don’t hurt your partner while fingering. Untrimmed fingernails can cause injury to the delicate walls of the vagina and increase the risk of infections. Besides, pain: you only want your partner to let out pleasure-filled screams, right?
Mark your territory
While it might feel good to share objects of sexual stimulation like sex toys (dildos, vibrators, et al) with your partner, it is best to have some boundaries here. Ideally, toys should not be shared as they increase the risk of passing on infections. If they must be shared, make sure that the toy is thoroughly washed with soap and water before and after each time it is shared.
Watch your body and VISIT THE GYNAE
The best way to ensure your sexual health is to know your body – how it feels to touch and also to look at. By doing so, you are more likely to spot if there are any unnatural changes: like eruptions in your pubic area, smelly or differently coloured vaginal discharge, and so on.
It is good to consult the gynaecologist whenever you feel something is even slightly off.
But, even if there is no health issue, periodic check-ups at the gynae should be done. Try to shed the fear of being judged by the gynae and go ahead to talk honestly. If you are convinced that the doctor is prejudiced, ask around for references to non-judgemental gynaecologists, but, never compromise on health and check-ups.
Also read: Sexual hygiene and health tips for gay men
*To protect the identity, the person/s in the picture is/are models.
Do you have any more health tips for oral sex? Comment below or share with Love Matters (LM) on our Facebook page. If you have a specific question, please ask LM experts on our discussion forum.