We all know how important our health is to a happy, fulfilling life, so it goes without saying that your sexual health needs some care and attention too. As you can probably tell, we’re slightly biased when it comes to the importance of sexual well-being as a premium adult toy store – we see your sex life as a vital part of your lifestyle, so if we can help our customers experience more pleasure in any way, we always try our best.
With men's and women’s sexual health being so important, you may be wondering how you can ensure your sexual health is the best it can be. What can you do to make your experiences better whilst still ensuring your health is being closely maintained? Your sexual health plays a significant role in your physical and emotional health, relationships, and overall quality of life, so in this guide, we’ll provide some sexual health tips that are good to keep in mind. We'll explore top tips, offer valuable advice, and share insights on how to maintain a healthy and fulfilling sex life.
Top Tips For Looking After Your Sexual Health
Whilst having fun exploring your intimacy alone or with a partner (or even multiple), safety should always be at the front of your mind. Sexual health is a serious topic and one that in the heat of the moment you may not think about until after reaching satisfaction. According to data from Statista, 2.4 million people visited a sexual health service in the UK in 2020, so many of us want to ensure we are having fun safely and avoid the worry of contracting Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STIs). There was a 24% increase in STI diagnoses in 2021/2022, so being aware of how to look after your sexual health and put a focus on intimate hygiene will ensure you’re thinking about this in the right way rather than just taking your chances.
When it comes to safeguarding your sexual health, there are several essential things you’ll want to follow. Here, we'll delve deeper into each of these sexual health tips, and whilst some of which you may already know, it’s always good to have a refresh of the basics.
Using Condoms
Condoms are a fundamental tool in the world of sexual health. They not only provide protection against STIs but also offer a barrier against unintended pregnancies. When getting down to business, especially with new or casual partners, using condoms consistently and correctly is a no-brainer when it comes to men’s sexual health, and with them being easy to keep in your pocket or bag and simple to put on, there really is no excuse not to have plenty to hand. You can also choose from a variety of options available, including different sizes, ultra thin condoms, and flavoured and novelty condoms to make them even more fun to use.
Cleaning Sex Toys
Adding the thrill of into your intimate activities is a fun and satisfying way to enhance your sex life, but it's vital to maintain their cleanliness. Nobody wants to use dirty toys, and they can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections and discomfort if not looked after properly. It can be all too easy to put them to one side after use, but this should definitely be avoided. To clean your toys effectively, follow these steps:
- Preparation – Remove any batteries or electrical components if your favourite toy has them. Ensure the toy is not connected to a power source and is turned off. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions on caring for your toys too before you begin, as depending on the material and construction, you may not be able to fully submerge in water or use certain cloths and cleaning products.
- Cleaning Solution – Using a mild, antibacterial soap and warm water to wash your toys thoroughly is highly recommended. You should always avoid using anything containing harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these could damage the surface or compromise their safety. For best results, using a specialist sex toy cleaner will keep them in pristine condition.
- Rinse and Dry – Rinse the toys under running water and ensure all soap residue is removed. Using a sex toy cleaner can help avoid this step as you can spray, wipe and leave it to air dry. They should be completely dry before choosing to store them away. It’s best to put them in a clean, dry place away from dust and general wear. Also, store each toy separately or use individual sex toy storage bags to prevent them from coming into contact with each other.
- Frequency – Cleaning your sex toys before and after each use is a good practice to maintain hygiene and safety. Getting into the habit of doing this every time will ensure no nasty surprises the next time you want to use your pleasure product.
Hygiene in Role Play
Who doesn’t love acting out role-play scenarios to put a bit of spice into your sex life? If wearing a sexy costume is something you enjoy, hygiene should still be kept in mind. When using any props, costumes, or bondage accessories you will want to keep these clean and sanitised before and after use. This precaution helps prevent everything from skin irritations, to allergic reactions or even infections, allowing you to fully enjoy your fantasies without worrying about causing an issue for you or your partner.
Choosing Clean Places
For those who like to explore adventurous settings for their sexual encounters, it's crucial to prioritise cleanliness and safety. Whilst you may get carried away in the heat of the moment and just want to get down to the deed fast, doing so in dirty or unhygienic locations can lead to discomfort or health issues. If at all possible, always scout and choose clean, safe environments for your intimate experiences. However, in unplanned moments of passion when outdoors, choosing a location may prove to be difficult, especially doing so quickly. Carry essential items like wet wipes or sanitisers to maintain hygiene when you're away from home. This way, you can always be prepared for when the urge takes over.
These top sexual health tips are not only practical but also essential for maintaining a fulfilling and safe sex life. Remember, by using condoms consistently and properly, cleaning your sex toys after every use, ensuring hygiene in role-play, and selecting clean environments for intimate encounters, you can minimise risks, protect yourself and your partners, and enjoy a satisfying and worry-free sexual journey.
How To Know When Your Sex Toys Need Cleaning
Have a collection of anal sex toys you just can’t live without, or bondage toys that get plenty of use throughout the week? Properly maintaining them is crucial to ensure not only maximum pleasure when using them but also for women's and men’s sexual health overall. The NHS advises that using sex toys is perfectly safe during your sexual encounters as long as you use them responsibly and keep them clean, as this will avoid STIs and infections. Here, we'll discuss how to recognise when your sex toys require cleaning, why it's essential, and how to clean them effectively.
Signs of Dirty Toys
Would you be able to spot a dirty toy when you see one? Hopefully yes! Knowing when your sex toys need cleaning is vital to maintaining their hygiene and your health and will in most cases be pretty obvious – really, you should be cleaning them after use every time. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Visible Residue – One of the most apparent signs that your sex toy requires cleaning is the presence of visible residue. This could be bodily fluids, sex lubricants, or other substances left behind from previous use. This should be pretty clear straight after use, but if you don’t clean them straight away, residue may dry and be more difficult to spot – best to wipe away ASAP.
- Unpleasant Odours – A strong, unpleasant odour coming from your sex toy is the last thing you want and is another pungent indication that it's time for a thorough clean. Odours can develop when bacteria or germs grow on the toy's surface, so again, clean them as soon as you are finished with using and this will avoid any build-up.
- Change in Texture – Over time, if you notice any changes in the texture or feel of your sex toy like a vibrator or dildo, it may be a sign that it needs cleaning or maintenance. This could manifest as stickiness, roughness, or a slimy sensation on the surface – yuck! Best get that toy cleaner to hand and clean away. If it's damaged, it can be the perfect excuse to upgrade your toy box and get some wonderful new toys.
- Discolouration – Discolouration of the toy's material, particularly on lighter-coloured materials that become yellowish or take on an unusual hue, is a clear indicator that it needs cleaning to remove stains and potential contaminants. Also, would you really want to insert something that is visibly less than enticing? Probably not.
Why Cleaning is Essential
Regularly cleaning your sex toys is not just about aesthetics and having a shiny, like-new toy; it's primarily about your health and safety. A focus on sexual health helps to remind you that neglecting your toys but still using them can be problematic. Here's why cleaning is so essential:
- Preventing Infections and STIs – Bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens can thrive on sex toys that haven't been cleaned properly. Using a dirty toy can introduce these microbes into your body, potentially leading to infections or discomfort. Everything from chlamydia to herpes and syphilis can be passed on through sex toy use – if you’d rather avoid these nasties, having a regular cleaning regime for your toy collection is a priority.
- Prolonging the Toy's Lifespan – Proper cleaning and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your sex toys too. Neglecting to clean them can cause premature wear and tear, reducing their durability and effectiveness. If you’d rather not have to replace your toys regularly, embrace the power of cleaning.
- Enhancing Your Pleasure – A clean sex toy is, funnily enough, much more comfortable and enjoyable to use! It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without concerns about hygiene so you can get lost in the moment and focus on the main aim – your and your partner’s pleasure!
When you know when and how to clean your sex toys, you will overall experience more fun and less risk. It’s also a vital aspect of responsible men's and women’s sexual health and well-being. By recognising the signs of dirty toys, understanding why cleanliness is crucial, and following proper cleaning procedures, you can enjoy a safer, more pleasurable, and worry-free experience with your intimate pleasure devices. Prioritising hygiene in your sexual pleasure is an essential step towards a healthier and happier sex life.
Sexual Health Help When You Need It
As we've highlighted the importance of good sexual health and provided tips for maintaining it, now it’s your turn to maintain best practices. After all, only you can look after your well-being and make decisions that are best for your health, and hopefully have some fun along the way. Whether it’s understanding the significance of using condoms, keeping sex toys clean, maintaining good hygiene during sex play, or choosing clean environments for adventurous experiences, you’ll be prepared to do so safely and routinely.
With Sexual Health Awareness Week between 11th – 17th September, remember that your sexual health is a vital aspect of your overall well-being. By following these sexual health tips and staying informed about sexual health help available, you can enjoy a safe, satisfying, and fulfilling sex life while minimising the risks associated with it. It only takes a few changes in your lifestyle to introduce good practices and to protect yourself from STIs and infections. If you are experiencing anything unusual or think you may have symptoms, visit your local sexual health service.
For more important dates to add to your diary, why not check out our ultimate sex day calendar and schedule in some much-needed pleasure. Discover more helpful sex advice and tips right here at Mega Pleasure.
