Here are some strategies to use when we want to know and understand our status without further stigmatizing those who have acquired STIs, especially HIV, in the process.
Whether for your own pleasure or to spice things up with a partner, sex toys are a great addition to your sex life. While there are certainly a large variety of different toys to use for pleasure, information on cleaning these products tends to be overlooked. And if you plan on getting the most mileage out of these toys without any risk of infection, you definitely don't want to skip on a good cleaning sesh — both before and after use.
Sex workers, therapists, educators, and more give their best advice for talking about STIs with your boo.
The effect of colonialism on politics is well-documented - but what about on sex and relationships? Here's what you need to know
Anal sex can be a highly pleasurable experience for all bodies and genders, but it can sometimes cause discomfort for a number of reasons. The speed of insertion, amount of lube used, and lack of communication between you and your partner(s) could all be contributing factors as to why anal sex may feel painful. It may even bring increased tightness or uncomfortable sensations that you're not used to feeling — especially if it's your first time exploring the possibilities of anal sex.
Despite these feelings, "no sex should ever hurt or be painful," Betsy Greenleaf, a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and pH-D Feminine Health Advisor, says. If you are experiencing pain during or after anal sex, that's reason enough to stop and consider what the problem is before continuing.
Ahead, let's dive into why does anal hurt sometimes, how to make anal not hurt, at what point of experiencing pain should you seek medical assistance, and the best lubes for anal sex.
