Taking care of your sexual health contributes to your overall health in a big way. Not only will this help you avoid sexually transmitted infections and other conditions, it will also help you get more out of your sex life. Here are 3 habits that you can adopt to maintain sexual health.

What is the importance of sexual health?

Maintaining a healthy sexual life helps you avoid STIs, and unwanted pregnancies, among other things. It also helps you have a positive view of yourself and sex, which means that you are better able to enjoy your sexual experiences, and set healthy boundaries with your partner.

Look after your vagina

Pay attention to your vagina and look out for any abnormalities with your discharge and period. Remember that your vagina never lies, if something is not right, it will react. One way to take care of your vagina is by practicing good hygiene. Avoid wearing tampons and pads for too long (longer than 4-6 hours at a time), or repeating underwear. Using soaps and douching is also not very good for your vaginal health, so don’t do it, Choma. All you need to do to keep it clean is rinse with plain water and a cloth. You also want to make sure that your hands are always washed whenever you are going to touch your vagina. 

Eat better

Does the food you eat affect your sexual health? Absolutely! Healthy foods like fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and other proteins help us maintain good overall health, which affects our sexual health, too. When you feel energized and light, you are better able to apply your body and mind to certain activities, including sex.

Carry your own condoms

There are lots of strange rumours and myths about women who carry their own condoms and I can tell you that none of them are true. Carrying your own condoms, instead of relying on your partner to bring them, puts you in control of your sex life. It means that if you decide to have sex with someone in the heat of the moment, you will do it safely, and you won’t have to fall victim to the “I’m out of condoms” excuse. You get to decide what happens with your body and that’s empowering.

It doesn’t mean that you can’t refuse sex if you don’t want to have it, Choma. It’s okay to say no, and your partner should not try to change your mind or force you into anything.

Your sexual health is important, and it’s your responsibility to make sure it’s taken care of. Listen to your body, use condoms during sex, eat well and make sure that you get regular sexual health screenings. These are all ways you can take care of your health and develop a healthy relationship with sex.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).