Essential Guidelines for Safer Sexual Encounters
In the realm of sexual health, it's crucial to prioritize safety and well-being. Dr. Nwankwo, a leading health expert, emphasizes the importance of open communication, consistent use of barrier methods, regular STI testing, and effective pregnancy prevention strategies.
Open Communication
Communicate openly and honestly with your partner(s) about sexual history, STI testing, and contraception preferences before any sexual activity. Discuss boundaries and consent clearly, ensuring it is enthusiastic and ongoing. This open dialogue fosters trust and understanding, promoting a safer and more enjoyable sexual experience.
Barrier Methods
Use condoms and other barrier methods consistently and correctly for all types of sex (vaginal, oral, anal) to reduce the risk of STIs and pregnancy. Male or female condoms, dental dams, and finger cots are effective barriers. Remember to check that condoms are stored properly, not expired or damaged, and use a new one each time.
Pregnancy Prevention
To prevent unintended pregnancies, consider various birth control options such as birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), hormonal implants, rings, patches, shots, diaphragms, contraceptive gels or spermicides, the morning-after pill, and condoms. Combine condoms with other birth control methods for enhanced pregnancy prevention since condoms reduce but do not eliminate pregnancy risk.
Lubricants
Use only water-based lubricants with latex condoms to prevent breakage; avoid oil-based lubricants like lotions or baby oil which can degrade condoms.
Regular Testing
Get regular STI testing for you and your partner(s) even if asymptomatic, since many STIs do not show symptoms. Share test results and consider preventative medications such as PrEP for HIV protection. Dr. Nwankwo recommends getting tested at least once a year, and more frequently for those who are more sexually active or have multiple partners.
Avoiding Risks
Avoid using irritants such as spermicides that can cause sores or irritation increasing STI risk. Cover or avoid sex if you or your partner have open sores or cuts, which can be entry points for infections.
Further Protection
For further protection and personalized advice, consult a healthcare provider about birth control options, STI prevention strategies, and regular sexual health check-ups.
Psychological Safety
Psychological safety in sex includes being consensual, respecting personal boundaries, honoring and acknowledging the limitations of all partners involved, incorporating safe words when applicable, never causing physical harm or psychological trauma, and only participating in sex when ready.
Abstinence
Abstinence is the only 100% way to protect oneself from STIs.
By following these guidelines, you can practice safer sex, reduce anxiety or worry about infection or harm, improve mental stability, self-esteem, and self-expression, and enhance self-awareness and compassion.
Dr. Nwankwo also encourages those with an STI to disclose their status to their partner, fostering trust and open communication, and allowing the partner to make an informed decision about their sexual health and well-being. Expressing one's limitations holds one and others accountable when it comes to achieving a standard that's right for them in terms of psychological and physical safety.
Health-and-Wellness
Adhering to these guidelines for sexual health will not only ensure safety and well-being, but also promote overall health and wellness by reducing anxiety, improving mental stability, and boosting self-esteem and self-expression.
Environment
Remember to dispose of used condoms and other sexual health-related waste responsibly, minimizing their impact on the environment and maintaining a clean and safe living space.
Science
The science of sexual health is constantly evolving. Stay informed about recent developments and advancements in the field to make educated decisions regarding your sexual health, relationships, and environment.
