Sexual health can sometimes be an embarrassing issue to discuss, but it’s essential that you know how to protect yourself between the sheets. This is important not only for your physical health, but for your mental and social wellbeing too. In this blog, we look at the reasons why you should take this issue seriously and offer some practical tips to help you stay safe.
Knowing Your Contraceptive Options
From the combined pill and progestogen-only pill to the implant, intrauterine device (IUD), patches and injections, there are plenty of contraceptives on offer. Not all of these methods will suit you though, so it’s important that you know your options and select something that is the right fit for you. This will depend on a whole range of factors, from your lifestyle and age to your medical history and any medicines you’re taking. Selecting the wrong type of birth control could increase your risk of unwanted pregnancy and even put your wellbeing at risk. Your doctor will be able to give you all the information and advice you need on this topic.
It’s also a good idea to get to grips with your emergency contraceptive options in case your usual method of birth control fails, for example if you forget to take your pill or a condom splits. There are two types of emergency contraception available. These are the ‘morning after pill’ and the IUD. Both must be used within five days, and the earlier they are used after unprotected sex, the more effective they are. You can find out more about emergency contraception from Online Doctor LloydsPharmacy and other trusted sources, or by speaking to your doctor or a pharmacist.
Understanding The Risk Of Infections
Many people don’t realise it, but sexually transmitted infections (STIs) don’t always show symptoms. In fact, it’s thought that as many as a fifth of people with these infections don’t know they have them. Most women with chlamydia don’t notice symptoms, and around half of women and 10 per cent of men don’t have symptoms when they’re infected with gonorrhoea. If infections like these aren’t treated, they can lead to long-term health problems. However, if you catch them early, most can be treated effectively – often with a course of antibiotics.
So, if you’ve had unprotected sex, it’s important to get checked out as soon as possible. You’ll be able to arrange this at your local sexual health clinic or possibly at your doctor’s surgery. As well as helping to safeguard your health, this will reduce the risk that you’ll pass any infections on. Also, bear in mind that the only type of contraception that will protect you from STIs is a condom.
Looking after your sexual health in these ways should ensure you can enjoy yourself between the sheets without worrying about the consequences for your wellbeing.
*Collaborative Post
