Sexual health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often under-discussed and sometimes misunderstood. As women understanding our bodies, how they function and how to maintain sexual health is empowering and crucial for making informed decisions throughout our lives. Whether you're sexually active or not, it is important to understand topics like safe sex, contraception and how to recognise changes in your body that may require attention. In this article we will explore these key areas and highlight the importance of taking control of your sexual health.
Safe Sex: Protecting Yourself and Your Partner
Safe sex is about reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and preventing unintended pregnancies. Practicing safe sex is one of the most important aspects of maintaining sexual health. Here are the key elements to consider:
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Condoms: Condoms are one of the most effective methods of protecting against STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea and herpes. They are also useful for preventing pregnancy. Condoms should be used during every sexual encounter to offer the most protection. If you're unsure about how to use them properly don’t hesitate to ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist for guidance.
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Dental Dams: For oral sex using a dental dam (a thin sheet of latex or polyurethane) can help reduce the risk of STI transmission. Though less commonly used, dental dams are still an important part of safe sex practices.
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Regular STI Screenings: Even if you’re practicing safe sex, it’s important to get regular STI screenings. Many STIs don’t have symptoms so it’s possible to unknowingly pass an infection to your partner. Getting tested ensures that you're both staying safe.
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Mutual Consent: Consent is an essential aspect of any sexual encounter. It’s vital that both partners feel comfortable and respected in all situations. Open communication about desires, boundaries and expectations can help create a healthier, safer experience for everyone involved.
Contraception: Options for Every Woman
Contraception is a key part of sexual health, especially for women who are not ready to have children or wish to plan their families. There are several options available to prevent pregnancy, each with its own set of benefits and considerations. Here are some popular choices:
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The Pill: Birth control pills are a common method of contraception, and they work by preventing ovulation. For many women, they offer additional benefits such as regulating periods and reducing acne. In some states across Australia, you can now get the pill from your pharmacist without a prescription. Depending on your personal circumstances, the pharmacist may be able to prescribe a hormonal contraceptive. This makes it even easier to access birth control without the need for a visit to a doctor. However, it’s important to ensure you’re using the pill correctly as missing doses can reduce its effectiveness.
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IUD (Intrauterine Device): The IUD is a small device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is a long-term option lasting anywhere from 3 to 10 years depending on the type. The IUD is highly effective, but it may not be suitable for every woman. Discussing options with your doctor is important to ensure it is the right choice for you.
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Contraceptive Implants: Implants are small rods placed under the skin that release hormones to prevent pregnancy. They last for up to 3 years and are highly effective. Like the IUD, implants require a doctor’s visit for placement but provide hassle-free, long-term contraception.
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Contraceptive Injections: The injection is another hormonal method of contraception that lasts for about 3 months. Like other hormonal options it is effective in preventing pregnancy but may have side effects such as changes in menstruation patterns.
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Contraceptive Patches and Rings: These methods release hormones like the pill but in different forms. The patch is worn on the skin, while the ring is inserted into the vagina. Both methods provide a continuous release of hormones to prevent pregnancy and require less daily attention than the pill.
Each contraception method comes with its own set of advantages, side effects and considerations. It’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider to find the best option for your body and lifestyle.
Understanding Your Body: Empowerment Through Knowledge
One of the most empowering things a woman can do for her sexual health is to understand her body and how it works. Familiarity with your menstrual cycle, physical changes and bodily responses can help you make more informed decisions about your health.
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Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle: Understanding your cycle helps you know when you are most fertile and can also alert you to any irregularities that might need medical attention. If you experience abnormal pain, irregular bleeding or major mood changes during your cycle, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
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Self-Examination and Awareness: Regularly checking for changes in your breasts and vagina can help you identify abnormalities such as lumps or unusual discharge. If you notice anything unusual such as a sudden change in vaginal odour, painful intercourse or bleeding between periods, it’s essential to get evaluated.
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Understanding Pleasure and Consent: Sexual health isn’t just about protection and prevention; it’s also about pleasure and consent. Every woman should feel empowered to explore her body and desires in a safe, comfortable and respectful environment. Open communication with partners about likes, dislikes and comfort levels are key to healthy sexual experiences.
UTI Awareness: An Overlooked Issue
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, especially among women. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract leading to symptoms like frequent urination, a burning sensation while urinating and lower abdominal pain. While not directly related to sexual activity, UTIs can be triggered by sexual activity, especially if proper hygiene isn’t maintained. To prevent UTIs:
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Always urinate after sex. This helps flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced during intercourse.
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Always wipe front to back. Proper hygiene is essential to prevent bacteria from entering the urinary tract.
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Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out bacteria from the system.
Did you know that half of all Australian women will experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point in their lives? Community pharmacies now offer quick access to diagnosis and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs, including antibiotic supply when necessary. Community pharmacists undergo extensive training to ensure they have the knowledge and expertise required to diagnose and treat uncomplicated UTIs, so you can be confident that the service is safe and effective.
If you experience symptoms of a UTI, don't ignore them. It’s crucial to get prompt treatment to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys, which can lead to more serious health issues.
Taking Charge of Your Sexual Health
Sexual health is a crucial part of every woman's overall health and by understanding your body, practicing safe sex and considering your contraception options, you can make empowered decisions about your reproductive and sexual well-being. Remember, it is important to have open, honest discussions with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have. Whether it is about contraception, STIs or understanding the changes in your body, taking control of your sexual health will enable you to make decisions that are best for you.
Our friendly Pharmacist's in store can help from advice to prescribing birth control or antibiotics for uncomplicated Uti’s without a prescription making it easier to stay on track with your sexual health needs.
This article is a part of the Autumn edition of the Healthy You Magazine.