Remember that uncomfortable lesson in health class in middle school where you finally learned all about sex? At the time, you and your classmates were probably full of giggles and dealt with that whole conversation in a somewhat immature manner. But as you get older and sexual activity becomes a regular part of your life, those conversations about sexual health and the side effects of STDs start to seem a lot more important.
Sure, sex is fun. People enjoy intercourse and getting intimate with a partner. However, there are ways to enjoy sexual activity while still staying safe and healthy. Sexual health isn’t just about your genitals or sexual organs but can affect so many other parts of your mental and physical health. If you are sexually active, consult your healthcare provider to be sure you’re doing everything you can to enjoy safe, protected sex.
Of course, the only way to stay 100% safe from having any issues with your sexual health is abstinence. But if that isn’t your style, there are still plenty of ways to protect yourself and your intimate partners. Before you can fully commit to a healthy sex life, it helps to understand why it is so important. Let’s dive into just a few reasons why sexual health is of the utmost importance.
STIs and STDs affect your overall physical health.
The reality is, there are a lot of diseases and infections you can contract from your sexual partners. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are nothing to joke about. You’ve probably heard about gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS. None of these diseases are a walk in the park and once you get them, you usually have them for life. And they affect your entire body, not just what is below the waist. Like HIV/AIDS for example.
This disease attacks your overall immune system and can lead to many more complications, including death. While many of these STDs have medicine you can take to lower side effects, it is still a disease you’ll deal with and have to tell sexual partners about for the rest of your life. This is why safe sex is so important. Use condoms, always be communicative with your partner about your sexual past, and stay up to date on your tests. You want to focus on looking sexy for your partner in your new slimming pants or skinny jeans, not worrying about your own health and disease as you’re getting into a new relationship.
Sexual health can affect your mental health.
Not only does your sexual health affect your physical health, but it can affect your mental health as well. Sex is an intimate, truly vulnerable act. Always be completely sure you’re ready to engage with a partner before you take that leap.
On the other hand, some individuals struggle with their own sexual health and that can affect their confidence. For example, older men dealing with erectile dysfunction may feel some depressive symptoms as a result. Luckily, you can consult your healthcare provider to get medicine to increase blood flow and help you keep an erection. Cialis vs Viagra will be the big decision as those are the leading dose of drugs for erectile dysfunction. Both have done well in clinical trials, but it is always good to check out the potential side effects before you decide which drug interaction is right for you.
Poor sexual health can lead to infertility.
While younger adults may be trying to avoid pregnancy, you may be interested in having kids someday. Poor sexual health in your youth can actually affect your fertility. Don’t let an irresponsible choice when you are young affect a dream you have later on in life.