As a human being, we must have a proper knowledge of sex. In short, sex education is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. The biological term for sex is – “Coitus”. This physical activity affects both your physical and mental health. Proper education is crucial for both male and female. Learn how to cultivate intimacy with respect and trust with your partner. In this blog, you will get to know about the anatomy and contraception to consent, diseases prevention like – STD etc and communication strategies. You will know – how to be responsible and treat your partner with love and care.
Understanding Sexual Health and Consent
1. What is Sexual Health?
Sexual health is not only about hygiene and preventing sexually transmitted diseases. It is about nurturing yours and your partner’s physical, mental, emotional wellness which are tied to sexuality.
To improve and maintain sexual health, you should follow these steps :
- Your attitude and environment should be positive and respectful. Do not get rough during coitus, your respectful approach and careful nature during sex makes oxytocin flow all over the body.
- Always access to accurate and right information with healthcare and support.
- Make the environment free from coercion, violence and discrimination. Make yourself and your partner comfortable.
2. The Foundation of Consent
If your partner says – no, do not force him/her for sexual activity. Do not force them, it might hurt their feelings. If one is unhappy, the balance of love and trust breaks between the two resulting unhealthy relationship. Proper consent from your partner is most important in healthy relationship.
You should have to be more understanding and take good care of your partner’s need. Understand the reason behind his/her denial. Maybe your partner is tired, sad or any other reason maybe hidden inside them. Always respect each other’s decision and never act rude when he/she deny your proposal for sex.
How to get consent :
- With gentle touch and lovely tone, ask your partner for their consent.
- If they deny, shower him/her with love and say – “It’s okay”.
- Always respect their decision.
- Do not act rude.
- Ask him/her if they are going through any harsh situation.
- Always stay with your partner.
3. Cultivating Consent Culture
You should encourage openness and respect. Discuss boundaries, desires and health status with your partner before intimacy. Normalize verbal “yes/no” exchanges between you and your partner. When there is silence or hesitation, your should respect it and accept it.
Anatomy and Sexual Response
1. Male and Female Anatomy
| Male | Female |
| External male anatomy : Penis, Scrotum, Foreskin | External female anatomy : Vulva, Labia, Majora/Minora, Clitoris |
| Internal male anatomy : Testes, Epididymis, Deferens | Internal female anatomy : Vagina, Cervix, Uterus, Fallopian Tubes, Ovaries |
2. The Sexual Response Cycle
The five phases of arousals are :
- Desire : When your interest rises rapidly towards sexual activity.
- Excitement : There are few physical changes which occurs in male and female. Eg in male – Erection and in female – Lubrication.
- Plateau : It is the stage where peak arousal takes place.
- Orgasm : The stage of release.
- Resolution : When you return to baseline.
Methods of Safe Sex
1. Condoms
Condoms are the most popular and easy to use contraceptive tool. It is always available in medical stores and also it is affordable.
There are two type of condoms :
- Male condoms : Polyurethane, Latex, Polyisoprene.
- Female condoms : Polyurethane sheaths, these are worn inside the vagina.
There are people who are allergic to latex, if you’re the one than use non-latex alternatives.
NOTE : Always check the expiry date and store correctly. Open the packet of condom correctly without piercing it. Use once and dispose it properly. Be extra careful while using condoms.
2. Dental Dams and Barriers
To protect yourself from oral sexually transmitted infections, you should use :
- Dental dams or cut-open male condoms
- Plastic wrap
3. Contraception Options
The other contraception options are :
- Hormonal : Pill, Ring, Patch, Implant, IUD and Injection.
- Non-Hormonal : Fertility awareness, Withdrawal, Copper IUD.
- Emergency Contraception : Pill, Copper UID.
Preventing Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
1. Some Common STIs
- HIV
- HPV
- Herpes
- Simplex
- Hepatitis B
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
2. STI Testing
- Visit a trusted doctor and get examined.
- STI testing discourage self-diagnosis.
- Always share results honestly with partners.
3. HPV Vaccination
This vaccine protects you against certain cancers like – anal, cervical etc. It is recommended for all genders , aged from 9-26; up to 45.
4. PrEP and PEP
- PrEP : This pill prevents HIV infection for high-risk individuals.
- PEP : This pill is an emergency treatment within 72 hours after possible exposure.
Communication, Respect and Emotional Safety
1. Talking About Boundaries
Be comfortable and talk about boundaries with your partner, use open and non-judgmental dialogues like –
- “I am not comfortable with ……………….”
Always share likes and dislikes clearly with your partner and reassure your partner that honesty is okay.
Note : Communication is Key.
2. Emotional Intimacy
You should make your partner feel safe by given them respect, trust and consistent communication. Also, address insecurities and emotions with empathy.
Practical Advice for Safe, Enjoyable Sex
1. Setting the Mood
- Make you partner comfortable before intimacy.
- Make your environment soothing and romantic with mood lightning and music.
2. Foreplay
- Before penetration, foreplay plays an important role in the world of intimacy. It is crucial for increased arousal, lubrication and pleasure.
- You should also explore kissing, touching, clitoral stimulation and gentle massage.
3. Lubricants
Lubricants makes sex easier and more comfortable. This helps to reduce pain if you’re experiencing intercourse for the first time. The three type of lubricants are :
- Water-based : Condoms. It is safe and versatile.
- Silicone-based : It is long lasting
- Oil-based : Do not use with latex condoms. It may cause breakage.
4. Lubing and Condom Techniques
- For extra lubrication, you can apply lubricant to outside of the condom.
- Slowly roll the condom from tip to base.
- Avoid tampering condom with your nails.
- You can add extra lubricant during sex as needed.
5. Aftercare
After sexual activity, you should urinate to reduce infection risk and clean your private part gently.
Do not leave your partner or sleep immediately after sex. This small rude behavior hurts your partner. You should cuddle, talk and reassure. This kind gestures will make your partner elated.
Reducing Risk : Avoiding Coercion and Impairment
1. Substance Use
- Do not consume alcohol/drugs during sex. Do not use it as a tool for consent.
- Do not use any harmful toys which is uncomfortable to your partner.
2. Coercion and Power Dynamics
- Do not pressurize your partner for sex and reject guilt and bribes.
- Do not dominate your partner, it may make them feel inferior and bad.
- Seek help from your close ones if needed.
When to Seek Medical Help
If the condom breaks or slippage happens, you should consider emergency contraception and STI testing.
If there is symptoms of – discharge, pain and sores. You should see a doctor as soon as possible. Also, do regular checkups – STI tests, Pap smears, screenings etc,.
Developing Lifelong Healthy Habits
1. Ongoing Sexual Education
- Get a proper knowledge from trusted source and always keep yourself ready for an unknown emergency.
- You must debunk myths like – Pull out method is enough.
2. Healthy Relationships and Boundaries
- Follow safe sex principles.
- Continue learning and evolve with time.
- Always respect diverse experiences.
Conclusion
Safe sex is not all about not getting your partner pregnant. You must take care of every minor things in intimacy. Prioritize the consent of your partner, communicate kindly and make your partner feel safe. You do not just build a healthy sex but also meaningful connections.
Break the myths, stop feeling embarrassed and communicate openly and respectfully. Honesty is important in a healthy relationship.
Promote sex education with valuable and accurate guides.