Taking care of your sexual health

While wellness and self-care are increasingly prominent in our daily lives and news feeds, sexual health remains neglected. Even if it isn't entirely ignored, sex education is often reduced to disease prevention.

However, the World Health Organization (WHO) describes sexual health as "a state of physical, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality." This article details the three pillars of fulfilling our pleasure: safety, autonomy, and satisfaction . Let's dive into a complete guide to fully experiencing your sexuality! 

Sexual safety first

Consent

Consent is the foundation of any healthy and positive sexual relationship . It must be given freely and with full knowledge, without pressure or coercion.

That's why it's crucial to ensure that each partner is comfortable with the situation. Consent can be expressed in various ways, not just through words. For example, a smile, a look, or a gesture can express consent.

If in doubt, ask explicitly . We promise it won't ruin the atmosphere; quite the opposite. Asking for consent is an essential sign of respect.

Finally, consent is never guaranteed for life. It can be revoked at any time. You have the right to say "no," "not now," "meh," or "I don't want to anymore," and your word must be respected.

Contraception

Choosing contraception is a personal decision that depends on many factors such as age, health, and lifestyle. Taking the time to learn about the options is key to finding a method that suits your needs and those of your partner.

Thankfully, the pill is no longer the only option. We can choose between hormonal contraceptives or barrier methods. Good news: research is finally progressing in male contraception with the growing popularity of heated underwear and Andro-switch devices !

Whether it's a one-night stand or a lifelong partner, discussing this topic strengthens both your sexual security and the trust between partners. The result: a fulfilling sex life for everyone. 

STI prevention

Zero risk doesn't exist. Any sexual encounter can lead to the transmission of infections or diseases. It's the least fun part of sex. That's why we need to be aware of the risks in order to enjoy ourselves in the safest way possible .

To protect yourself and your partner, you can opt for condoms or other barrier methods such as dental dams during sexual intercourse. Don't forget to get tested regularly to reduce the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections or diseases.

Yes, some STIs can be asymptomatic , meaning they don't present any visible symptoms. Let's remain vigilant!

Finding the right resources to educate oneself about sexuality

Sex education, still too rarely taught in schools, often stops at sexual safety . Yet, talking about sexuality also means talking about connecting with one's body, self-esteem, and relationships with others. Experiencing one's sexuality fully goes beyond the intimate relationship between two sets of genitals, doesn't it?

A lack of education generally leads to risky behaviors, low self-confidence, and a sexual experience shaped by mainstream media. By becoming informed, we help dismantle performance pressures and contribute to a positive view of sexuality .

To begin, we recommend you do some reading.

• The Intimate Lives of Women by Dr. Anne de Kervasdoué

• I enjoy Emily Nagoski as I am

• Know Thyself by Clarence Edgard-Rosa

• Jouissance Club de Jüne Plã

Furthermore, Planned Parenthood is a goldmine for navigating one's sexuality with a listening ear and support. This advocacy organization offers numerous resources, workshops, and awareness campaigns at both the local and national levels.

Don't hesitate to contact the nearest branch to find answers.

Looking for more interaction? You'll find rich and relevant content on social media! Sexologists and sexuality specialists have Instagram accounts and YouTube channels to answer your questions and give you practical advice.

Taking care of one's pleasure

A healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is fundamental. Our parents told us so, our doctor insists, and even the advertisements mention it.

But what exactly does that include?

Taking care of your sexual health means prioritizing your sleep. Poor sleep causes more stress, and stress is the number one enemy of libido.

Adopting a healthy diet is also crucial, favoring nutrient-rich foods low in saturated fats. Alcohol consumption should be moderated, and if possible, smoking should be quit altogether.

Furthermore, it is important to check if your contraception is negatively affecting your libido and to consult a healthcare professional to find the most suitable method.

Finally, regular exercise is key to better sleep, improved lubrication, and even better sex. You feel good in your body, you last longer, and you can try new positions. Even moderate exercise is your BFF for peak sexual health!  

A healthy perineum

The perineum is a group of muscles located between the pubic bone and the coccyx. It is heavily used during pregnancy and childbirth, and can also weaken with age. It is also an excellent ally in our pleasure, as it allows us to feel with greater precision.

To keep your pelvic floor in top shape , the medical community recommends exercise, particularly with "Kegel exercises ." These movements consist of contracting the perineal muscles for a few seconds, then releasing them.

By regularly practicing these exercises, you can improve the strength and endurance of your pelvic floor , which can help prevent health problems associated with a weakened pelvic floor. We tell you all about it in this article . 

Top-notch self-knowledge

To establish healthy boundaries and explore your sexuality , we need to go through a phase of exploration . Start by discovering what gives you a thrill. With your fingers or a vibrator , take the time to feel and try new things whenever you have the chance.

Explore what ignites your imagination. What are your fantasies ? Which ones would you like to fulfill, or which ones would you prefer to keep secret? You can try erotic writing or journaling to reveal previously unknown facets of your desire.

Sexuality is a personal experience , so there is no right or wrong way to experience it, as long as it is done with respect for oneself and others. 

You have all the tools you need to take full care of your sexual health . Nurturing your pleasure is also a powerful act of self-love. We all deserve to be able to enjoy ourselves in a positive environment where we feel safe, informed, and fulfilled. To continue enriching your sexual education, we invite you to read the other articles on this blog.