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Just got laid? Don’t forget to follow these 4 absolutely essential post-sex habits

Ever wondered what you should be ideally doing after sex to ensure sexual hygiene? Well, here are four post-sex habits that are an absolute must.
vaginal itching
It’s important to practice post-sex hygiene to steer clear of infections. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Dr Uma Vaidyanathan Updated: 12 Feb 2020, 13:12 pm IST
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From setting the mood to that perfect foreplay sesh, most of you would be aware about what to do before sex—but you may be less certain about what to do after sex. Intriguing, isn’t it?

While you and your partner are likely to lounge in bed for a cuddling session post-sex, what you need to realise is that getting up to clean yourself is the first thing you should be doing. Yes, it may sound all unromantic but that’s exactly what you should be doing to maintain post-sex hygiene.

Here are four post-sex habits that you must not forget to practice:

1. Go pee
Immediately after sex, go to the bathroom. Pee so that all the fluids are flushed out properly and there is less chance of getting a urinary tract infection. It also flushes out any stray sperms, lessening though not eliminating the possibility of pregnancy.

You are at increased risk of urinary tract infections as bacteria may ascend the urethra during intercourse. So, make it a routine to use the washroom pre and post-sex. Also, drink a glass of water in case you do not feel like passing urine. It will help flush out the germs.

Also, read: It’s time to improve your relationship with your vagina. Here’s how you can make that happen

2. Wash slowly and gently
Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft towel. Always wash your private parts from front to back and not vice versa. The vagina has its own self-cleansing mechanism, which includes good bacteria that help to keep the pH levels healthy and balanced. No, we aren’t asking you to douche. Just keep the external areas clean, the vagina will take care of itself!

post-sex habits
Washing and cleaning your private parts is one of the most important post-sex habits. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Douching with over the counter products will further end up pushing infection into your vagina and can interfere with the delicate bacterial ecosystem, aggravating vaginitis and local irritation.

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3. Wear fresh set of clothes
Body fluids that stain your undergarments and clothes are a breeding ground for infection, so always make it a point to wear a fresh set of clothes. Change the sheets as well. You should feel normal soon after intercourse.

If you notice any lesions around your private parts, any burning or itching sensation while passing urine, fever, any fresh lumps that get worse with time, report to your doctor immediately.

4. Don’t forget to dispose off the condom
Do not make the mistake of trying to flush the condom down the toilet because it will clog your drain. So, while you bask in the post-coital glow, pick up that wrapper, tie the condom and dispose it off in the bin.

Additionally, you and your partner should have an open discussion about sexual health and hygiene. Ideally, you both should undergo testing for sexually transmitted infections as positive test reports can negatively impact your health as well as your relationship.

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About the Author

Dr Uma is a senior consultant at obstetrics and gynaecology department, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh. ...Read More

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