Safeguarding your sexual and reproductive health
THE reproductive system is one of the most important and sensitive systems in the human body, which is why steps should be taken to protect it. Whether you are a woman or a man, the risks of poor reproductive health are numerous. If you are wondering how to protect your reproductive health, the following pointers can help.
1. Limit your sexual partners
Abstinence, of course, is the only completely effective way to avoid sexually transmitted infections. However, if you are going to have sex you can limit your risk by choosing to have sex inside of the confines of a serious relationship. If a man is pressuring you into having a one-night stand, chances are high that he has promiscuous sexual habits, including many other partners. This cannot be stressed enough — the more promiscuous your partner is, the more likely it is that he may contract a sexually transmitted infection. Avoid one-night stands and only have sex with people you have taken your time to get to know and who you strongly believe you can trust.
2. Talk about protection
Before you jump into bed with a new sexual partner, be bold enough to discuss contraceptive protection ahead of time. If that seems like an awkward conversation to have with your new Boo, then maybe you should consider getting to know him more before you take things to the next level. Chances are that a conversation about protection won’t be as awkward as you fear. Showing that you care about your health is not only the adult, practical thing to do, it’s also a sign that you respect yourself.
3. Use a condom
Always have one handy in the event that your date “forgets” to bring his. A condom isn’t a perfect shield against STIs as they can still break or slide off, and condoms don’t protect against skin conditions like genital herpes. Still, a condom is better than nothing at all. For best results, pick a lubricated condom. Lubricated condoms are less likely to break and are easier to put on. Dental dams can provide a degree of protection when engaging in oral sex.
4. Avoid consuming alcohol prior to having sex
Alcohol has the effect of making many of us lose all inhibitions and reducing our ability to make safe decisions. This is dangerous when bodily fluids are being exchanged. Even if it’s with a person you trust, you are still at the risk of becoming pregnant if you’re not on a family planning method.
Sex should be enjoyable, so make sure that you’re fully aware when you’re having it. Nothing’s worse than waking up and not even knowing the name of the person lying beside you.
5. Exercise caution
Don’t fall into the trap of believing that because a prospective sexual partner’s “looks tun up”, he or she does not have an infection. Be on your guard, as this is one time that looks can kill. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have little or no obvious signs. The effects of chlamydia, for example, are far more pronounced in females than in men. Also, the effects of STIs vary from person to person. Many people have STIs without ever showing any signs or symptoms.
6. Get tested together
If you find yourself in a committed relationship with someone you trust, why not go to the clinic together to get tested? If you feel comfortable enough to have sex with a person, you should feel comfortable enough to submit to a test for basic STIs. Most tests only last a few minutes and many clinics accept walk-ins. There’s no shame in getting tested. Think of it as a romantic symbol of a willingness to get serious.
It’s your body, so you have a responsibility to protect it well. Covering up is the key to maintaining good reproductive health. Use common sense together with protection and you’ll be able to enjoy sex without putting your body at risk.
