If you are currently involved in a lesbian relationship, it is important to remember you are still at risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is important that you attend regular appointments at your local sexual health clinic for testing. Below are some tips which will help you to practice safe sex and some signs that could indicate you need to visit the sexual health clinic.
Safe sex tips
- Wash any sex toys after use: Use clean, warm water and hypoallergenic soap to wash them and a clean towel to dry them.
- Place condoms over any sex toys to help to stop the potential spread of any infections between you and your partner.
- If you or your partner have a cold sore, you should not perform oral sex on each other as you would be at risk of passing on the virus.
- To help to stop the transmission of STIs via your fingers or hands, you should wash your hands with antibacterial soap before and after sex.
- If you plan to insert your fist into your partner's vagina or anus, you should wear latex gloves and use plenty of lubricants as doing so will reduce the chance that skin will be split or cut and will help to prevent infections.
Signs you may have an STI
- If you feel soreness or itching around your vaginal area, a burning sensation when you pee or notice any unusual discharge, you may have developed thrush.
- If you develop painful blisters or ulcers on your genitals or mouth, you may have herpes, or if you notice growths around your genitals or anus, these could be genital warts.
- If you notice a skin rash, swollen glands or painless ulcers around your genitals, this could indicate that you have contracted syphilis, which is a very serious STI which will require immediate treatment.
Sex is an important part of life. If you follow the above tips and keep an eye out for any of the listed symptoms, you can be confident that you are doing all you can to prevent STIs. And if you do notice any of these symptoms in yourself or your partner, you should seek immediate medical treatment at a sexual health clinic like Travellers Medical Services. You should continue to have regular check-ups even if you seem symptom-free, as some STIs, such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia, do not present any symptoms or may not present for a period of time.
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