Just what does the term, sexual wellness mean and how does it apply to you?
Sexual wellness covers just about every part of being human. From age-appropriate body and sex education to emotional health, and personal growth, it’s all about finding that balance where everything aligns in a holistic way. Being sexually aware and informed can give you more confidence when communicating to partners or even friends and family members. Being confident in your body and knowing what it is capable of is key to being able to make informed choices for yourself and set boundaries which align with these.
Regardless of gender identity, relationship status, or sexual orientation, taking care of your sexual wellness can help to build confidence in so many ways. Understanding desire, pleasure and how to ask your partner(s) for what you need can be extremely rewarding. Sex is a basic human drive, not only to survive, but to thrive as a society. It makes perfect sense that people with healthy, happy and satisfying sex lives prioritise their sexual wellness as part of their daily lives. We’re not talking about devouring the Kama Sutra, or rushing out to get tested for STDs. We’re talking about gradually incorporating practises and learning to ensure your sexual wellness is, well, well!
Whether you are looking to improve your solo sexual wellbeing or enhance sexual communication in your relationships, this guide features tips and information to support you.
Understanding sexual wellness
Sexual wellbeing and what it means, varies throughout your life and circumstances. Starting with basic body education as a child, through to understanding puberty and your changing body, to masturbation, desire, pleasure, relationships, having children and beyond. As an ever-evolving human being, understanding your own sexual wellbeing changes throughout your life. Assessing your needs and desires is a lifelong pursuit, and taking time to ensure they align with your current physical and emotional stage is an important part of your holistic wellbeing and personal growth.
Sexual health and wellness for your whole life might include:
- Education – body and sex education in age-appropriate terms is essential to understanding yourself and live a sexually well and informed life.
- Health – keeping emotionally healthy and physically fit can positively impact your sexual life.
- Hormones – understanding your body during times of hormonal change like puberty, menstruation, and menopause and keeping your body in balance during these times will help with self-compassion and communicating any difficulties you’re facing. Being aware of your normal responses and patterns can help identify any changes that might need attention.
- Fertility and reproduction – sexual wellbeing during family planning and pregnancy is extremely important. Hormone patterns, desires, and societal pressures all contribute to huge changes within your relationships, emotional health and personal feelings.
- Pleasure and satisfaction – Let’s not forget desire, arousal and orgasms in our sexual wellbeing experience! A natural drive to seek out pleasure and feel the pull of chemistry when we find someone we’re attracted to is one of life’s great adventures. Sexual wellbeing seeks to help us feel empowered to follow these natural instincts and enjoy what our bodies are capable of. After all, there’s not many gifts we can give ourselves in life which are absolutely free!
Solo sexual wellness
You don’t need to be in a relationship to be thinking about sexual wellness. Giving yourself orgasms through self-pleasure and masturbation itches that sexy scratch, but it has other important self-care benefits.
- Relaxation – the flood of hormones after climax can help you unwind, de-stress and even aid good sleep. Allowing your mind to be calm, even for a moment or two post-orgasm, can be very beneficial for your mental health.
- Self-knowledge – connecting with your own fantasies, desires and ways of pleasuring yourself is the perfect way to learn more about the most important person in your life… you.
- Confidence – knowing exactly what turns you on and gets you off can be of great benefit in sexual relationships. Being able to positively guide your lover will help make the experience more satisfying for both of you.
- Body positivity – embracing yourself and your body and marvelling at the pleasure it can bring can help with your overall confidence and self-awareness.
Regardless of your relationship status, masturbation can be an important part of your own personal growth and sexual wellness.
Sexual wellness with a partner
If you’re in a relationship, making sexual wellness a priority can benefit you in other non-sexual aspects of your life together. For example, opening up and voicing your desires in the bedroom can spill over into better communication in other areas, making awkward subjects easier to broach. In turn, this leads to even more trust and deeper intimacy. Of course, talking about sexual wellness with a partner might be difficult to initiate, especially if you’ve been together for a while, so finding ways to build on what you already have is a great starting point. You could even begin by simply talking over your most recent sexual experience together – what you liked, what you hope to do again… what you might like to try in the future. Talking about sex will get easier the more you do it.
How to care for sexual wellness with a partner
- Communication – discussing and exploring sexual desires, voicing your boundaries and listening to each other are all very important when it comes to sexual wellness with a partner. Think of it as getting to know them at their most basic human level. It’s quite a privilege to share space with someone so intimately. Try to listen openly to each other without judgement. It can feel very vulnerable to open up even if you are already having sex, so honour the trust and respect you are giving each other by listening without immediately reacting.
- Shared responsibility – make sure that you’re both practising safe sex and have regular STI testing where appropriate. Sexual wellness with a partner should include an understanding of each of your personal responsibilities to yourself and the other person. For example, it shouldn’t just be up to one person to always bring the wipes, lube or any other aid required. Stepping up and taking care of these physical aspects will go a long way to ensuring you are emotionally invested in the relationship and will make your partner feel cared for. Check-in regularly with each other about your boundaries and needs.
- Reproductive health and fertility – sexual wellness with a partner becomes even more relevant if you’re planning to conceive. It can be exciting, and keeping a good sexual connection at this time might come easily. But if things take a little longer than expected, pressure can mount, and stress can slip in. This is when sexual wellness and sexual health become essential, as changing priorities and bodies can shake your foundations. Communication, desire, keeping things sexy and focusing on the connection you already have with your partner can help maintain intimacy and reinforce a strong bond for your transition to parenthood. The evolution from a partnership to a family can be overwhelming – keeping your sexual wellbeing a priority throughout this time will help galvanise your relationship and connection, making you ready for this new phase together.
- Prioritise pleasure! – introducing sex toys, such as vibrators or dildos, can add excitement and even inspire new tastes or fantasies. Sex toys are great for stimulating different erogenous zones and intensifying sensations, which ultimately lead to bigger and better orgasms. Adult products like lubes, nipple clamps, butt plugs can bring wonderful new experiences. Making sexual discoveries together can deepen your connection and enhance your sexual satisfaction.
Sexual wellness for life
Sex is a basic human need, and so embracing sexual wellness for life can lead to positive changes in other areas:
- Physical fitness – sex, whether solo or partnered can be seen as a form of exercise. Even if your session isn’t vigorous, your heart rate will increase, and you’ll be burning calories, getting the blood pumping, and even toning those muscles. The flood of endorphins and hormones post-orgasm can increase feelings of wellbeing, reduce stress and improve sleep.
- Self-confidence – by understanding your own sexuality, and exploring your own wants, needs and desires in a deeply personal and honest way through self-pleasure and masturbation, you are learning about what you like and don’t like. You’re drawing boundaries that start with you. Listening to your own body and inner voice grows your self-esteem and body positivity. Feeling comfortable in your desires and confident in your own skin can lift your overall wellbeing, and ultimately lead to a more confident you.
- Health – an important aspect of sexual wellness is that it can give you an insight into your own health. Get to know your menstrual cycle and use good body safe products to suit you. Practise safe sex and keep to good routines to help prevent infections. Taking care of your sexual wellness for life can be as simple as taking a pee after sex. This will flush out any lingering fluids which may harbour bacteria and can cause a UTI (urinary tract infection) or similar. Knowing your body means you’ll be able to spot when things are changing and when to see a doctor.
- Emotional intimacy – sexual wellness extends to the emotional as well as the physical. Good sex that involves communication, as well as satisfaction, brings with it deeper trust for greater emotional intimacy.
Sexual wellness continues throughout every stage of your life. It doesn’t end when you get pregnant, start/end a relationship, or stop being sexually active. Having a relationship with your own sexual wellness and seeing it as part of healthy living can enhance other areas of your life, for all of your life.
How to prioritise sexual wellness
By including simple techniques in your sexual habits, you can improve your overall wellbeing and sexual satisfaction. Here are some tips to help ease you in to prioritising sexual wellness:
- Self-kindness – thinking of yourself as you would a loved friend can help make you treat yourself with more respect and kindness. Give yourself the permission you need to enjoy your own company and listen to your body and mind as you explore it.
- Communication – try to make communication a priority with your partner and be sure you both feel safe to discuss your desires, boundaries and preferences. Once you start being honest with each other, and yourself, you might find it opens up more pleasure possibilities and joint explorations.
- Consent – boundaries should be discussed in a non-judgmental and understanding way. Ask each other questions so you can get to know why they like and don’t like something. Clear communication leads to trust, intimacy and, ultimately, mutual satisfaction. And who wouldn’t want all that? Remember that consent can be withdrawn by either of you at any time.
- Keep it clean – after sexual activities or masturbation, be sure to clean yourself and any sex toys or accessories. Post-fun clean-up reduces the risk of infections and keeps everything in good hygienic condition for next time. Follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning sex toys and use mild, body-safe cleansers.
- Regular STI testing – if you’re sexually active, regular STI testing is essential for you and your partner(s) sexual health. Schedule routine check-ups with healthcare professionals, and be sure to discuss any concerns. Early detection of anything unusual means access to treatment more quickly if necessary.
Using sexual wellness products for pleasure
Sexual wellness is big business, and there are many companies offering a huge range of pleasure products to improve your sexual experiences and bring bigger and better orgasms.
From vibrators and dildos to lubricants, bondage gear, massage oils and beyond, sexual wellness products are designed to enhance pleasure, encourage exploration and build intimacy. All bodies, genders, and preferences are catered for, and you can pretty much find anything that might take your fancy. Vibrators come in many shapes, sizes and intensities to provide targeted clitoral and G-spot stimulation. Dildos offer penetration options, while butt plugs cater for anal pleasure. Masturbation sleeves and pocket strokers are popular options for penis pleasure. Couples’ vibrators, remote-controlled toys and wearable devices can add an extra layer of excitement during partnered activities. Bondage gear, such as handcuffs, blindfolds and restraints, can bring a sense of fantasy and exploration to consensual power dynamics. Massage oils and candles set a sensual ambiance and the myriad of lubes and potions to ease entry and smooth connections is mindboggling. Take a look at our sex toy guide for a more comprehensive list.
Sexual wellness for you
Sexual wellness for women and AFAB (assigned female at birth) people includes menstruation, contraception, pleasure, reproductive health, emotional wellbeing, menopause, hormonal health and more. Your sexual wellness journey can involve exploring your desires, embracing self-pleasure and advocating for your own sexual rights.
Regular gynaecological check-ups, practising safe sex and good hygiene all add to good sexual wellness for women. Connecting with your fantasies and desires and building your own boundaries is a great way to enhance your self-confidence. Your arousal levels and sex hormones fluctuate not just over the course of a month but throughout your life, with natural ebbs and flows all adding to the experience. Understanding your own body, including the anatomy and erogenous zones, can help you to voice your desires with confidence.
An overview of sexual wellness for women.
- Hormones – who would we be without our mighty hormones? Hormones drive almost every aspect of our lives, so keeping an eye on when they are in balance can help identify when they are not. For example, vaginal lubrication fluctuates throughout your cycle, so keeping a journal or using an app to record your changes can be a great way to get to know your natural rhythm and prepare for when you might feel a little more vulnerable or those great times when your sexual energy is high, and your libido is thriving!
- Menstruation – some people start puberty as early as nine or even younger, but it’s not unusual to have your first period as late as fifteen or sixteen. Seek medical advice for very young or if periods are still absent by 16. The same is true if your periods stop for more than three months. There are many menstrual products and brands, so you might need to experiment to find the perfect match, or a combination of a few to suit your comfort and needs, such as pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period pants. Following guidance on changing products regularly, washing hands before and after, and maintaining cleanliness will help prevent infections. Get to know and understand your own body and how it fluctuates with your menstrual cycle so you can identify any new changes and know when to treat yourself kindly.
- Hygiene – the vagina is self-cleansing with perfectly balanced flora to flush out any bacteria or debris, such as semen and menstrual blood. Wash the external part of your vulva, labia and clitoris with gentle pH-neutral soap and let your vagina do the rest. If you notice itchiness, unusual smell or different discharge, your flora may have become unbalanced, so get it checked out asap.
- Arousal – the female response to being sexually aroused is for the vulva to become engorged with blood and the vagina to self-lubricate in preparation for penetration. You do not need to put anything into your vagina to have a satisfying sexual experience. The clitoris, which is an organ purely dedicated to pleasure, can be stimulated externally via the glans, or head, at the top of your vulva above your urethra (pee hole). It can also be stimulated internally via the G-spot, which is located in the front wall of the vagina a few centimetres in.
- Comfortable penetration – for many, having something inserted into the vagina for fun, is only comfortable after a lot of clitoral stimulation to ensure full arousal. Using a good body-safe lubricant can also ease penetration by reducing friction and discomfort. Exploring clitoral play through touch, oral sex, or incorporating sex toys designed for clitoral pleasure can bring added satisfaction. Sex doesn’t have to include any form of penetration to be fully satisfying, and orgasms from clitoral stimulation alone are normal and very common.
- Exploring all the orgasms – because there is less of a ‘rest’ period between female climaxes, you can experience multiple orgasms. These can be achieved through continued stimulation and arousal. Exploring G-spot stimulation can lead to intense orgasms and potentially even squirting, where fluid is ejaculated via the urethra – in much the same way as male ejaculation is. [link to Her Orgasm guide]
- Breast care – your breasts will change throughout your life, and knowing what’s normal for you is essential. Get to know your breasts with monthly self-exams so you can detect any changes and have them checked quickly if necessary.
- Pregnancy and birth – pregnancy and birth can be a hugely vulnerable time as your body has undergone many changes. Understanding, patience and kindness between you and your partner is essential when it comes to your intimacy and sexual wellness at this time. Your healthcare professional will offer support and guidance on sex. Exploring alternative forms of intimacy and pleasure, such as mutual masturbation and a focus on sensual touch, can maintain connection and satisfaction. Taking care of your changing body, treating yourself with love and compassion, and even wonder at what you are physically capable of, can bring you a deep sense of fulfilment. Some people report a very big uptick in their libido during pregnancy, particularly the second trimester, where the ‘blooming’ phase traditionally starts to take hold. Morning sickness may have passed, and the incredible pregnancy hormones will be flooding through your body, making you feel great. Of course, the opposite can also be true, as we keep on mentioning, your experience is unique, and there really is no ‘normal’.
Sexual wellness for him
Men and AMAB (assigned male at birth) people’s sexual wellness involves exploring pleasure, building emotional connections, paying attention to overall health, and managing stress levels. Knowing your body and what’s normal for you makes it easier to notice any changes and get early help. For example, changes in urination could be caused by underlying health issues. Self-breast exams are also encouraged. Men may feel less inclined or empowered to ask for emotional help, so trying to have open conversations about your desires and what makes you feel good is really important. Men can also withdraw consent at any time.. Listen to your body and inner voice about what makes you feel good when it comes to sex.
- Penile health – practising good hygiene, including cleaning the penis regularly, helps prevent bacterial or fungal infections. Where applicable, proper foreskin hygiene is important to ensure cleanliness and reduce the risk of infections or problems such as balanitis. Gently pull back the foreskin and clean underneath with warm water and body-safe soap.
- Erections – the penis is capable of having erections throughout life, from babyhood to old age. If you experience difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection, it’s important to discuss this with a healthcare professional who can explore potential underlying causes and recommend options, such as lifestyle changes, medications, or therapies. Talking to your partner or trusted friend can also ease anxiety as it might be something they’ve experienced.
- Health concerns – sexual wellness for him is connected with overall health. Regular self-examination of the testicles can help you notice any lumps or abnormalities. Attending routine check-ups for prostate health is recommended as you get older. Any changes or unusual symptoms during sex, masturbation, or urination is definitely worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
Emotional wellbeing – stress, anxiety and relationship dynamics can have a big impact on your sexual experiences. Try activities that offer you relaxation, fitness and general wellbeing. Talking things through with your partner(s) can help improve your intimacy and, therefore sex life. Professional support, such as therapy or counselling, can also help if you have worries that are affecting your sexual wellness.
Non-binary sexual wellness
Non-binary sexual wellness is about recognising different gender identities and respecting individual preferences. Self-exploration, talking with partners and finding inclusive, supportive spaces can build a positive and fulfilling sexual experience. Non-binary sexual wellness is a personal journey, and you have the right to define what it means to you.
If your body or genitals don’t fit with your sense of self, it can be very difficult, so take things slow and treat yourself with respect and compassion and ask others to do the same. Communicating your needs to your partner or even friends can build intimacy and offer them an understanding of what you’re going through.
Discovering and nurturing your sexual wellness as a non-binary person can be empowering and liberating. Giving yourself permission to explore your own desires and pleasure and prioritising your sexual health in a way that feels authentic to you is an important part of your overall health and happiness.
Sexual wellness products
The best sexual wellness products are designed to safely enhance pleasure and orgasmic exploration. Where in the past, sex toys might have been seen as ‘competition’ or somehow admitting to failure or cheating, the great news is that we now regard them as an enhancement – having your cake and devouring it! If you’re new to the world of toys, here’s an overview of the most popular and best sexual wellness products to start your exciting and orgasmic journey.
Sex toys
We live in a time where you can find pretty much any sex toy to cater for your tastes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy them alone, with a partner or in a group sex scenario, sex toys can add a hot new dimension to your sexy encounters. The best sexual wellness products are always made from body-safe materials, so be sure to choose from a reputable company.
Let’s explore some of the main types of sex toys available:
- Dildos – usually phallic-shaped, dildos are toys designed for stimulation through penetration. They come in various sizes, shapes and materials, from soft, lifelike silicone, to glass or stainless steel and many more. Dildos can be used vaginally or anally – though they must have a flared base for anal use so they don’t get ‘lost’ inside the rectum – and some even come with suction cups for hands-free play.
- Vibrators – toys which offer buzzy or rumbly vibrations for external or internal stimulation. They come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, including bullet vibes, clitoral, G-spot, ride on and wands. Vibrators can enhance solo play and partnered sex.
- Male masturbators – also known as strokers or sleeves, male masturbators are placed over and/or around the penis shaft to simulate oral, vaginal, or anal penetration. They often have a textured inner surface to give variety and stronger sensations to masturbation and sex.
- Prostate toys – specifically designed to stimulate the prostate gland, a highly sensitive area in the male and penis owner’s body, usually have a curved head and may vibrate. Prostate toys can give intense pleasure and can even cause orgasms and ejaculation without the penis being erect or stimulated at all.
- Butt Plugs – toys designed for anal play with a tapered head for easy insertion and a flared base to ensure they don’t get ‘swallowed’ into the rectum. Butt plugs give pleasurable feelings of fullness and stimulate the many nerve endings surrounding the anus. The best thing about butt plugs is that they can be used by anyone.
- Lube – using lube can enhance comfort and reduce friction during sex toy play. Be sure to use a lube compatible with your toy, as oil-based lubes can destroy condoms and silicone-based lubes can potentially cause micro-abrasions in silicone toys, leading them to harbour bacteria. Use a water-based lube if you’re in any doubt.
Protecting your partner
Taking care of yourself and your partner during intimacy will increase trust and strengthen your sexual experience.
Protecting your partner’s sexual health might include:
- Contraception – if you’re not planning to conceive, contraception is vital. Decide together on the most suitable method for you – e.g., hormonal birth control, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs).
- STI/STD Protection – sexual health includes protecting yourself and your partner(s) from sexually transmitted infections or diseases (STIs/STDs). Condoms and dental dams reduce the risk of STIs during penetration or oral sex. Regular STI testing and talking openly with your partner help keep your sexual relationship healthy.
- Hygiene – keep it clean! We’re not talking about eliminating your natural scent or pheromones, which can be a huge turn on. We’re talking about simply showing your partner the respect of being clean. If you’ve both showed up filthy to your date, taking a shower or bath together can be a sexy bonding experience in itself.
- Stay curious – make sure you are showing interest in each other’s sexual evolution. Your turn-ons, fantasies and desires can change over time so being open and talking about them can offer new ways to keep your relationship alive and exciting.
Health & hygiene
Hygiene and practising healthy sexual habits are essential for good sexual health and wellness:
- Cleanliness – use unscented soap and warm water on your genitals to remove bacteria, and sweat and reduce unpleasant odours. Don’t be too severe with your cleaning—pheromones are important for arousal and attraction. Wash your vulva with a very mild soap externally only, vaginas are self-cleaning and are remarkably good at it. The delicate balance of PH and flora can be disrupted by easily, so don’t interfere. If you’re indulging in anal play, minimise any risk of bacteria being transferred to the vagina from the anus, as this can knock the balance off and cause BV (bacterial vaginosis) or similar. Penises and under the foreskin (if applicable) should be washed thoroughly with very mild soap and warm water.
- Safe sex practises – using barrier methods such as condoms or dental dams during oral, vaginal, or anal sex can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies. If you’re in a non-monogamous lifestyle, regular STI testing and communicating openly with sexual partners is essential for everybody’s wellbeing. If you’re in a fluid, bonded, monogamous partnership, it’s important to keep discussing your boundaries and using protection where necessary.
- Lubrication – using a water or silicone-based lube can reduce friction and enhance pleasure for everyone. Sometimes, your natural lubrication might be less copious—this is normal! Using additional lube is perfectly fine and can be necessary during other sexy moments, such as anal play. The anus does not self-lubricate and therefore needs a helping squeeze.
- Self-care – sexual health and wellness includes emotional wellbeing. Taking time to understand and explore your own desires and pleasures is important for a fulfilling sexual life. Self-love is exactly that – a moment to literally love yourself.
Products for fertility
There are several female sexual wellness products that can help support reproductive health and fertility. Always check with your healthcare professional first, but the following products may be beneficial –
- Fertility lubricants – formulated to be sperm-friendly and mimic the natural pH and consistency of cervical mucus. These lubes also provide additional moisture and comfort during sex.
- Ovulation tracking devices – fertility monitors and ovulation predictor kits can help calculate the most fertile times within the menstrual cycle.
- Prenatal vitamins – supplements that contain nutrients such as folic acid, iron and various vitamins and minerals support health and foetal development.
- Fertility supplements – a combination of vitamins, minerals, herbs and other natural ingredients believed to support female sexual wellness, including balancing hormones and reproduction.
Safe bondage
Sexual wellness includes all forms of sexual play and exploration. Bondage within the context of BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism and Masochism) can be a thrilling and intimate experience.
Before you begin, here are some essential bondage considerations –
- Consent and communication – the foundation of any healthy sexual activity, including BDSM play, is consent and communication. Before any activity takes place, discuss your desires, boundaries and limits, making sure everyone understands fully and gives their consent.
- Safe play products – when being up or tying someone else up, use purpose-made bondage products designed for safety and comfort. These might include bondage ropes, handcuffs, bondage tape, or other restraints. Avoid using makeshift bonds that might cause injury or restricted blood flow.
- Take it slow – if you’re new to bondage play, begin with light activities, perhaps with non-lockable handcuffs or stretchy fabric that can be removed easily if it feels too intense. Gradually experiment with different degrees of restraint and sensation, allowing everyone to understand their own preferences and comfort levels. It’s important to check in with each other throughout the experience to make sure you’re all enjoying yourselves.
- Safe word – a mutually agreed-upon word or phrase used to communicate discomfort, to slow down, or stop altogether. When the safe word is used, all activity should stop, and everyone’s comfort should be taken care of. Play can always be resumed later.
- Aftercare – after any BDSM play or ‘scene’ including bondage, take time to give emotional support, comfort and reassurance to each other. Soothing activities such as cuddling, massage, or simply talking help to nurture emotional wellbeing and create a safe space for you to process your experiences.
Top tips for sexual wellness
Regardless of your gender, relationship status, or sexual activity, the following section will offer sexual wellness tips to enhance your own sexual health and wellbeing and those who you’re involved with.
Masturbation
Masturbation is a natural and healthy part of your sexuality. Exploring your own body, discovering what brings you pleasure can enhance and inform your overall sexual experiences. Here are some solo sexual wellness tips to consider when it comes to the joys of masturbation –
- Explore – intimately connect with your own body and explore your fantasies and desires through masturbation. There’s no right or wrong way to masturbate in the privacy of your own space, so explore your mind and body without judgment to discover what turns you on.
- Toys – introducing sex toys can add new dimensions of pleasure and sensation.
- Keep it clean – wash your hands thoroughly before and after each session to minimise the risk of introducing harmful bacteria. Always clean your sex toys according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Safety – when trying new masturbation techniques, take precautions to minimise any risks. For example, use proper lubrication to prevent discomfort or irritation and be sure to use the correct lube for each sex toy. If you fancy tying yourself up, remember, there may not be someone nearby in case of emergencies, so take care.
- Seduce yourself – create a comfortable and relaxing environment for your solo seduction. Set the mood with soft lighting, sensual music, erotica, ethical porn or any other things that help you feel at ease and turn you on.
- Afterwards – self-care after masturbation might include simply relaxing, having a snack, or maybe some gentle stretching. Wallow in your post orgasmic glow, feeling more grounded, relaxed and connected to your body.
Physical activity
You’ve heard it so many times, exercise is good for you! Simple activities like stretching can increase your flexibility, and keeping your body strong and healthy will help reduce recovery time for any injuries, infections and illnesses. But physical activity is also beneficial for your sexual health in many ways.
- Love your heart – regular exercise improves cardiovascular health, which is great for sexual stamina in the bedroom! Keeping your heart and blood vessels healthy improves blood flow throughout your body, including the genitals. Enhanced blood flow can lead to improved arousal, stronger erections and even more powerful climaxes.
- Libido – exercise releases endorphins, known as “feel-good” hormones, which can lift your mood and increase sexual desire. With improved energy levels, a reduction in stress and a more positive body image, it’s no surprise that exercise contributes to a healthy libido.
- Strength and endurance – taking time to strengthen your Kegel muscles is great for your sex life and beyond. A strong pelvic floor can lead to more intense orgasms, and good muscle tone improves overall endurance, allowing you to last longer during sexual activities. Having a healthy and strong pelvic basin can also help with postpartum recovery. You should take care of your pelvic floor throughout your life to help keep your bladder and bowel function healthy.
- Increased Confidence – boost your self-confidence by getting those endorphins flooding your body with those natural feel-good chemicals, and be proud of yourself for doing so. Feeling good about your body and what it’s capable of can build your sexual confidence and reduce inhibitions that might hamper your pleasure-seeking.
Diet & nutrition
A balanced, healthy diet with good nutrition supports your overall health and can contribute to a fulfilling and vibrant sexual life. Here’s why –
- Semen volume and quality – nutrients such as zinc, vitamin C and selenium found in oysters, citrus fruit, nuts and seeds, are associated with healthier sperm production and motility.
- Lubrication – good hydration equals good natural genital lubrication, which makes for more comfortable and exciting sexual experiences.
- Flavourings – some foods are reported to enhance or change the flavour of vaginal juices and semen. For example, pineapple is said to sweeten your sexy emissions, and broccoli gives a saltier taste. While you might not be able to significantly alter your flavour by what you eat, if you are even slightly dehydrated, whatever you taste will be stronger. Vaginal PH changes throughout the cycle, so it will have natural taste fluctuations and definitely be more metallic during menstruation. It’s all a matter of taste!
- Energy and vitality – eating nutrient-dense foods and avoiding excessive intake of processed foods, sugar and alcohol can lift energy levels, boost libido and help prevent fatigue during sex.
By staying hydrated and nourishing your body with wholesome foods, you’re supporting your sexual wellness as well as keeping healthy and vibrant.
Multiple partners
Sex with multiple partners can involve complex dynamics. If you’re sexually involved with more than one partner, whether in threesomes, group sex, one-night stands, or open relationships, it’s important to look after your health, hygiene and protection. Support for everyone’s emotional wellbeing is also essential. Here are some tips for sexual wellness in such scenarios –
- Communication and consent – always strive for transparent and honest communication with all partners. Discussing boundaries, desires, and expectations ensures everyone is informed and all activities are consensual.
- Practise safe sex – sex with multiple partners requires safe sex practises. Condoms and other barrier methods, such as dental dams or gloves, can help protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Regular STI testing is also recommended to for your own health and peace of mind.
- Personal care – good hygiene in multiple partner relationships includes personal hygiene as well as proper cleaning of sex toys and any equipment used. Everyone taking responsibility for their own sexual health will benefit the whole group.
- Evaluation – reflecting on your own desires, needs and boundaries to make sure you are fulfilled within the group situation is important. Assess your values, emotional wellbeing and overall sexual wellness and make sure these still align.
Multiple partner experiences and open relationships can be extremely fulfilling and a valid lifestyle choice for many people. Taking care and checking in with all individuals involved, both physically and emotionally, is essential to building a healthy and happy group situation.
Enjoying sexual wellness
As with all things, sexual wellness trends change and evolve. Your sexual wellness is yours to nurture and enjoy. Try to be mindful of each encounter, even solo, and see these times as positive self-discovery and personal growth.
Positive play
Being sex-positive with your partners and exploring your sexual lives in a healthy and supportive way is an important part of sexual wellness. By focusing on wellbeing and pleasure, you can build a more fulfilling and exciting sexual connection.
How to make the most of your sex-positive partnerships –
- Prepare for pleasure – thinking about sex and pleasure ahead of time can be very arousing. Foreplay can even include activities like taking a bath or shower together, engaging in sensual massages, going on a date, or simply sending dirty texts. [LINK TO DIRTY TEXT GUIDE]
- Use sex toys together – the best sexual wellness products can heighten pleasure and satisfaction for everyone. Sex toys, such as vibrators, dildos, or couples’ toys combined with lubricants and arousal enhancers, can add excitement and variety and even bring stronger orgasms.
- Talk about it – communication can be one of the hardest things to get right in a relationship, but it is essential for a truly positive sexual experience. Talking about your desires, boundaries, and fantasies can in itself lead to an arousing discussion. If you’re really shy, direct your partner to an article or story that helps to define your desires in a positive way.
- Post-sex – as well as basking in your shared post-coital glow, sexual aftercare includes proper hygiene, such as urinating to clear bacteria and cleaning any sex toys used. Once you’ve cleaned up, take time to rest, cuddle, or even start those conversations you’ve avoided. Oxytocin, the ‘love’ hormone, is released at times of intimacy, and is also known as nature’s truth serum – so that sexy haze might be a perfect time to talk openly with your lover about your relationship.
Good sexual experiences enhance pleasure and satisfaction as well as nurturing intimacy and connection. What are you waiting for?
Healthy exploration
Sexual self-discovery is one of the most important parts of your sexual wellness journey. Getting to know your own body through self-pleasure can bring a deeper understanding of your desires, preferences and overall wellbeing.
Masturbation is a natural and healthy way to experience sex on your own terms. Take time to find out what turns you on. Indulge in your sensual side and explore your fantasies through erotica and visual stimulation like ethical porn. Experiment with new techniques, sex toys and other pleasure products to embrace new sensations and satisfaction. Armed with this knowledge of your sexual self, you’ll have more confidence when it comes to partnered sex.
Exploring your sexual potential can include so many other activities. Exercise boosts energy levels and enhances overall stamina, which in turn can heighten libido and sexual experience. Yoga, stretching, and strength training can increase flexibility and improve body confidence, which can have a positive impact on your sexual wellbeing. Combined with a nutrient-rich balanced diet, your sex life and orgasmic reach will be through the roof!
Your personal sexual wellness evolves with time and experiences. Take the opportunity to explore and learn about your constantly changing body, desires and boundaries. Listen to your instincts, practise self-care and make your sexual wellbeing and pleasure a priority in your life.
After all, a good orgasm gives you so many benefits all for free!