How to practice post-sex hygiene? These 10 tips can help

Cosying up to your partner for post-sex cuddles can be comforting after an enjoyable sex session. It can go a long way in strengthening your bond! However, ladies, don’t forget to give your vagina the attention and care it deserves. It is critical that you follow all of the rules in order to maintain hygiene down there. If you’re unsure about what to do or what not to do after having sex, here’s a quick guide for you!

How to practice post-sex hygiene?

When you experience sexual excitement, your body produces a discharge that contains bacteria, which can be passed from person to person in blood, sperm, vaginal, and other bodily fluids. This is the most common source of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Manjiri Mehta, Consultant Gynecologist, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi – A Fortis network Hospital, to find out the right practice of cleaning the vagina post-sex to avoid the risk of infections.

Dr Mehta says, “One important aspect of having sex with your partner is to understand what care needs to be taken post the act. It is of immense importance to avoid any short and long-term problems.” So, while it may sound unromantic, that is exactly what you should do after sex.

Here are things to do and avoid post-sex to maintain hygiene down there:

1. Go and pee

Both partners should make sure to pass urine post-intercourse. You don’t need to hop out of the bed immediately after the act, but you should make sure to do it and not go off to sleep before doing so. Urinating helps in flushing out the germs which may later cause urinary infection. Drinking plenty of water too is helpful.

2. Wash your vagina

Washing the private parts gently with lukewarm water and a mild soap is essential. Do not use hot water, harsh or scented soaps, and any chemical-based products to clean your vagina. Just clean the outside area (vulva), no need to douche (clean the inside of the vagina) vigorously, as the vagina has a mechanism where it self-cleans. Also, douching will only increase the risk of potential infection.

Don’t ignore your vaginal health. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

3. Change underwear

Change into a fresh set of underwear as clothes can be stained with body fluids that can harbour infections. Plus, wear only cotton underwear, since they are breathable for your skin and can easily absorb sweat.

4. Pay attention to rashes

If you have any lesions, or rashes near the private area or if you feel any irritation or burning of skin or burning while passing urine, or any kind of pain in your private parts, consult your doctor at the earliest as this could indicate that the skin is damaged.

Also read: Here are 4 signs that you’ve been neglecting vaginal hygiene

5. Clean sex toys

If you’ve used them, wash sex toys thoroughly. They get exposed to semen and vaginal discharge, making them prone to transmit bacteria which can result in infections. Plus, wash your hands since you have touched the genitals of your partner.

6. Watch out for the symptoms of infection

Look for discharge, pain, blisters, spots, etc near your genital area. If you find any such symptoms then get yourself tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STD), as it could be a symptom of the same. Do not fear or search for remedies online, instead consult an expert.

There can be many causes behind a Sexually transmitted infection. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

7. Avoid using products

Do not use over-the-counter products or intimate wash to clean or for the treatment of any problem post the act as it might lead to further complications.

8. Be careful during period sex

Sex during menses can be messy. All the precautions need to be carried out in the same way. Remember to remove tampons or a menstrual cup before having sex. Also, make sure to use a condom as blood contains bacteria and can cause infection.

Also read: Is vaginal rejuvenation the answer to better sex life?

9. Follow anal sex safety measures

For those who indulge in anal sex, it is wise to use lubrication as it can’t get wet. Never follow anal sex with vaginal sex as it can pass the bacteria. Use a condom while having anal sex as well. At the end wash the area with warm water and mild soap as the skin near the anus is fragile.

Make anal sex pleasurable by following safety measures! Image courtesy: Shutterstock