Confused about sexual grooming? Here are 11 things you must know about your sexual health

Have you watched the Netflix series Sex Education? Well, if you have, you must be well aware of the importance of being sexually groomed.  It doesn’t just bring a sense of awareness within you, but it also keeps you away from sexual maladies.

Sadly, in India, sexual health is not given as much importance as it should get. 

First of all, sexual health and grooming is not as openly discussed. That’s why unwanted pregnancies, irresponsible usage of contraceptive pills, and other reproductive problems are commonly seen.

It’s important that young women receive guidance about their personal grooming and safe sexual practices, so as to prevent any local or sexually transmitted infections.

That’s why we have for you the ultimate sexual health grooming guide that will answer some of the most important questions about your sexual health.

Here are eleven things you should definitely know about your sexual health

1. Girls generally develop pubic hair after puberty, and they may choose to remove it by waxing, trimming or shaving. It’s alright to use any method that is comfortable, but they should be careful, since it is a sensitive area.

2. “The pubic area should be kept clean by washing well with soap and water, but avoid scented washes or douching in the vaginal region (the inside),” says Dr Astha Dayal, consultant gynaecologist and obstetrics at Meddo.

3. Make sure the instruments used for shaving or trimming are clean and aseptic.

4. If you have sensitive skin or if you develop a rash or infection after waxing, or after using a hair removal cream, then it’s better to switch to an alternate method, like trimming.

5. Keep the area dry and avoid synthetic undergarments or clothes that may cause sweating there.

6. “Especially during menses, make sure to change pads every four hours to maintain hygiene,” suggests Dr Dayal.

7. When using the washroom, always clean from front to back, even if using a jet spray.

8. After washing yourself, dab yourself dry with toilet roll, before wearing your clothes.

9. Avoid too much added sugar in your diet, as they may cause fungal infections.

Also, listen:

10. The only way in which you can prevent sexually transmitted infections is to use condoms. There are both male and female condoms available today. It’s important to use a condom before the first genital contact, and not just at the time of insertion.

11. Also, younger women are more prone to catching STIs(sexually transmitted infections) like chlamydia and gonorrhoea, which sometimes may not cause any symptoms, or maybe just a discharge. So if you are sexually active, you should visit your gynecologist if you notice any different discharge or at least once annually to check for STDs.

So ladies, share this piece of advice with your girl gang and help them out too!