With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, many individuals could also be planning to get down and soiled with their companion, a date, or hoping to get fortunate on an evening out.
However, Sarah Mulindwa, sexual well being and wellness professional, who’s working with Vivastreet, says though getting between the sheets will be enjoyable, folks want to verify they’re staying protected in terms of intercourse.
Lots of people use condoms as their principal type of contraception, to guard from undesirable pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), nevertheless sexpert Sarah says there are loads of frequent errors which might put you vulnerable to each of those.
READ MORE: ‘Invisible’ STI circumstances surge as contaminated can stay symptomless for ‘years’
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Talking solely to Daily Star, she mentioned: “Using condoms constantly and accurately to stop each being pregnant and STIs. However, you must by no means tear open a condom together with your enamel, as this improve the possibilities of a rip.
(Image: Sarah Mulindwa/Instagram)
“You should always pinch the top too, to ensure space for ejaculation, as not doing so can also increase the chances of a break.”
Giving extra recommendations on tips on how to have protected intercourse, Sarah added: “Communicate openly with your partner about your sexual health and inform them of anything they may need to know.
“Don’t overlook to get common sexual well being check-ups and encourage your companion to do the identical.
“Consider using a combination of contraceptives for added protection, such as condoms along with hormonal methods like pills, patches, injection or coil.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Sarah additionally gave some suggestions for what to do in case your companion is not eager on a sure kind of contraception. “Initiate an open and non-judgmental conversation about contraception preferences and concerns,” she mentioned.
“Explore alternative methods that both partners are comfortable with. Educate your partner about the various contraceptive options, emphasising shared responsibility (its not just the woman’s responsibility)!”
She added: “Consider involving a healthcare professional (you can visit your local sexual health clinic or GP practice) to provide more information and address concerns.
“In my scientific expertise, sufferers all the time really feel quite a bit higher when an expert reassures them fairly than you attempting to take action your self, significantly in the event that they undergo with anxiousness! We are all the time right here to assist!”
(Image: Getty Images)
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Sarah recommends common testing for STIs to be sure to forestall any infections, particularly earlier than participating in sexual actions with a companion.
Suggesting different ays to chop down on STI dangers, Sarah added: Limiting the variety of sexual companions and selecting companions correctly may also help you cut back the possibilities of buying an STI. But keep in mind, all it takes is one companion to get an an infection).”
She added: “If you’re a intercourse employee and have a number of companions, you might be eligible for screens each 28 days which is a good way of catching any potential STI’s.
“Encouraging open communication about sexual health with your partner, and even within your friendship circle – this normalises the practice of getting screened regularly and removes any underlying shame or stigma that lots of people can struggle with.”