Sex is an unavoidable aspect of relationships, and when it comes to having a harmonious relationship, an area we cannot overlook is having a safe and healthy sex life. It is not just about preventing STDs or unwanted pregnancies. It is about promoting mutual respect, fostering open communications, and building trust.
Hence, to help you safeguard your well-being while still keeping the sparks alight, we have compiled some critical tips on how you can converse with your partner regarding the matter. Only by doing so can you set the stage for a safe and sexually gratifying experience.
Why safe sex is important?
Despite the recent report on the rise in STD infection cases, practising safe sex is not just about preventing the development and transmission of contagious diseases. It is also not about preventing unplanned pregnancies. It is a fundamental aspect of fostering a healthy relationship. The key to practising safe sex is to look at it as a shared responsibility where both parties are contributing actively to one another’s well-being.
When you have a conversation about safe sex, you open up opportunities for binding trust, mutual respect, and open communication that strengthens the relationship beyond the bedroom. It is also about creating a space where each individual feels protected, appreciated, and free to discuss their desires.
How do conversations about safe sex allow for honesty?
Transparent communication sets the foundation for a relationship to be successful. Conversations about safe sex should be no exception. While it may not be easy to raise such sensitive topics, it is vital that both parties embrace one another’s honesty and well-being.
It does not matter who initiates the conversation as long as both parties are honest and open to one another, being explicit about the type of protection they wish to use, sexual history, and expectations.
How do you overcome the awkwardness and fear of having such conversations?
Navigating through the initial conversation about safe sex can feel delicate and daunting. However, if both parties are reminded that it is about developing a satisfying and safe sex life, it becomes of core importance.
Always make sure that the approach is considerate, non-judgemental, and transparent. Never put safe sex in such a way that is an ultimatum. Rather, it should be a crucial aspect of the relationship both parties are willing to invest in.
Start the conversation during a non-sexual and comfortable moment when both parties are alone together, relaxed, and will not be interrupted.
How do you overcome the obstacles during the conversation?
It is inevitable that issues or differences may surface during the conversation, whether it is from cultural or religious beliefs, misconceptions, or pride. Nevertheless, all these issues can be overcome with lots of understanding and patience. Always remind one another of the shared goal – a safe and satisfying sex life.
Rather than having a one-time-only conversation, regular conversations are healthy, and they help to keep differences at bay, preventing any critical conversational points from being missed.
Practising consistent, safe sex
Once both of you have the conversation, the next critical step is to promote safe sex habits consistently. This could mean having consistent communication about changes in sexual health status, expectations, and desires, going for regular STD tests, and always using contraceptive methods.
Additionally, practising safe sex is more than just the physicality. It is also about encompassing mutual consent and emotional health. Hence, creating a safe sexual space for one another involves a holistic approach.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, do not hesitate to seek professional help if you and your partner are still unsure of how to navigate through such conversations or if issues surface. There are many relationship counselling services and sexual health clinics that can help to educate both you and your partner in this journey.
Here at Elyon Clinic, we believe in the importance of practising safe sex, providing a range of STD preventive methods as well as educate you on the best habits to adopt. Our teams are more than happy to offer professional advice. Contact us to find out more!
