When it comes to vaginal health, things can get a bit chaotic down there. And you might be surprised to learn that yes, your sex toy can have an impact on how healthy and happy your vagina is - and so can your partner's hygiene habits, for that matter! Here Stigma Health’s sexual health expert Dr Claire Pickett dishes out the dirty (ahem, clean) details and shares three important things you need to know to keep your nether regions happy and healthy and ready for action.
Yes, it really, really does. Your partner's hygiene - or lack thereof - can have a significant impact on your vaginal health. And no, it doesn't matter what gender they are.
Make sure your partner scrubs up before getting (or going) down. Washing their hands and genital areas can help prevent unwanted bacteria from crashing your party. Uninvited guests like bacteria can lead to infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) or urinary tract infections (UTIs). So maybe grab a shower together before you take things to the next level.
Using condoms every time you have penetrative sex can help maintain your natural pH balance. Semen is alkaline and can throw off your vagina’s slightly acidic environment, so wrapping it up can help keep everything balanced and happy.
And let’s not forget the peace of mind that comes with knowing everyone is STI-free. In Australia, for example, Stigma Health offers convenient and fast online STI testing, so you and your partner can stay on top of your sexual health without the awkward clinic visit.
Did you know that sex toys need to be cleaned (gasp) every time you use them? It's true - in fact, you should clean them both before and after use, just in case. This helps keep any nasties away, so don't skip this important step.
And remember, different toys need different TLC - silicone, glass, and stainless steel toys can usually be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. You might also want to invest in a specialist sex toy cleaner, which you can buy from adult toy shops or online. Follow the instructions that came with the toy for best results.
And toys made from porous materials like jelly or rubber can absolutely hold on to bacteria, so clean them thoroughly or pop a condom on them for added protection. In fact, if you're sharing toys, using condoms can prevent you from exchanging unwanted bacteria, because yes, you can get an STI from sharing toys! The more you know...
Do you know the signs to look for when you vagina is crying out for help? If you answered, "Um, no" then we need to talk. Here are some telltale signs that something might be up:
If you spot any of these symptoms, don't just hope they go away or try to treat them yourself at home - see a healthcare provider. You might need medication or treatment that will help you heal, and you might need to stick to other bedroom activities while your vagina is recuperating.
Remember, your sexual health is an essential part of your overall wellbeing, so take the time to care for it properly. Using condoms, practicing good hygiene, and ensuring your sex toys are properly cleaned are all essential practices you should prioritize. And get your partner on board, because it's more fun to do these things together - and then you'll have peace of mind that you're both being safe, caring, and ready for action.
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