5 Steps to a Healthy Sex Life

[jimmyray]

1. Use a condom every time you have sexual intercourse.
* Latex condoms offer the best protection against sexually transmitted infections for people having sexual intercourse.
2. Talk with your partners before the heat of passion.
* Partners should care about each other and be interested in one another's pleasure, comfort, and health.
* Be open. Let your partner know your health concerns and sexual health history, and encourage your partner to be open, too.
* Be direct. Talk about your sexual needs and expectations.
* Be persistent. Don't let your partner remain silent on these issues.
3. Keep medically fit.
* Have a checkup for sexually transmitted infections every year.
* Protect your immune system. Eat well, get enough rest, and limit your use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
4. If you think you or your partner has a sexually transmitted infection...
* See a clinician for testing, diagnosis, and treatment.
* Find out if your partner(s) need to be examined and treated, too.
* Use all the medication that is prescribed-symptoms often disappear before an infection is cured.
* Do not take anyone else's medicine, and do not share yours.
* Do not have sex until your infection is under control.
5. Stay in charge.
* Alcohol and other drugs weaken good judgment and self-control. Don't let them jeopardize your self-control.