12 Do’s and Don’ts during/after sex to prevent infections

by Shatakshi Gupta
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There are some mistakes you might be making no matter how long you’ve been having sex. People focus on the dos and don’ts of sex but not on the dos and don’ts of pre and post sex.

After a deep and passionate under-the-sheets experience with your partner, you may overlook the significance of some minor details that can lead to serious health problems. We’re talking about infections that can occur immediately following sex.

Some common mistakes that people make right after sex increase the risk of infection. But you want to remember your sex session because it was so much fun, right? To do so, you must avoid certain activities that can cause discomfort and pain.

After Sex Wash Up

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You don’t have to rush out of bed and into the shower. However, gently cleaning yourself after sex can protect both men and women from infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). Plain warm water should be used to clean the area around (but not inside) your genitals. Mild soaps can be used, but if you have sensitive skin or an infection, they may dry out or irritate the area. Men with foreskin should pull it back gently and wash underneath.

Don’t douche

Some women believe that after sex, they must clean inside their vagina with water or prepackaged fluids. Douching, on the other hand, can spread infections. This is due to the fact that it disrupts the natural balance of bacteria that protects your vagina. The best way to care for your vagina after sex is to let it clean itself naturally. Also, keep in mind that a slight odour is normal and may not indicate a problem.

Avoid  artificial fragrances

Along with douches, drug stores sell a variety of wipes, creams, and sprays that claim to “freshen up” your private parts. Some of them contain harsh soaps, detergents, shampoos, perfumes, or lotions that can cause breakouts on your skin. Simply follow sex with a gentle rinse with warm water. Also, scented tampons, pads, powders, and sprays should be avoided, especially if you are prone to infections.

Empty Your Bladder After Sex

Bacteria can enter your urethra, the tube that transports urine from your body, during sex. This increases your chances of contracting an infection. You flush those germs out when you pee. So spend some time cuddling with your partner before going to the bathroom. If you’re a woman, wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from spreading.

Grab a Glass of Water After Sex

Drink plenty of water because it’s a good idea to pee after a roll in the hay. Staying hydrated causes you to pee more, which means that more bacteria is washed out of your body before infections flare up.

Wear loose clothing when sleeping

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After sex, your body warms up and you begin to sweat. Wearing nylon or synthetic lingerie may cause abrasions. Furthermore, after coming into contact with vaginal secretions, those nylon undies may cause itchiness. To stay healthy, wear cotton nightwear.

Do not use an intimate wash to clean your vagina

According to Gynaecologists, you should clean your vagina with warm water after sex. However, because the skin becomes extremely sensitive after sex, you should avoid using harsh intimate washes. Doctors also advises against douching under any circumstances, but especially after sex.

Avoid using intimate wipes

The majority of intimate wipes contain artificial fragrances and preservatives. Using them may increase the risk of infections and rashes. Even gynaecologists advise against using intimate wipes on your vagina.

Always keep your sex toys super clean

Sex toys are exposed to sperm and/or vaginal discharge, making them susceptible to bacterial growth. This means that if they are not cleaned after sex, they can cause infection.

Please wash your hands

You have touched your partner’s genitals. As a result, it is critical to clean your hands to prevent the spread of bacteria. Failure to do so can result in multiple bacterial infections. After sex, wash your hands properly.

Avoid taking a hot bubble bath

After sex, cuddling in a hot water bath may sound like a great idea, but it may increase your chances of getting an infection. A hot water bath can provide the bacteria with a warm environment in which to multiply.

Being in that hot water-filled space for an extended period of time allows bacteria to gain access to various parts of your body. This is not only bad for your genital health, but also for your partner’s.

Consume probiotic-rich foods after heated session

Post-sex snacks are the best, so choose something that will keep your vagina happy as well. Yogurt, kimchi, kombucha, and other fermented foods contain the same good bacteria found in the vagina. Developing the habit of snacking on these foods after sex can help to replenish the body’s good bacteria, lowering your risk of a yeast infection. After all, you don’t want anything to get in the way of your next hot romp.