When we think about sex, it’s not unusual for our minds to jump immediately to the typical sexy things – toys, different positions to try out, flirty tips, how to have a better orgasm etc – but we should also be thinking about our sexual health and wellness and making sure that all our working parts are at their optimum so that sex can be the earth-shattering, spine-tingling experience we all want it to be. It’s important to remember that you can’t have good sex if your body isn’t at its best.
We’ve rounded up a few products that will help you take control of your sexual health and not leave it to the last minute when an itch suddenly alerts you to something being wrong down there. Ahead, seven amazing health and wellness products you need to add to your shopping list today:
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Probiotics
The role of probiotics in vaginal health is well documented with experts unanimous about their benefits. They can help you maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, reduce the risk of UTIs, support the immune system, reduce inflammation, may help with your vaginal pH balance and promote optimal overall vaginal health. We love these daily probiotic dietary supplement capsules that balance yeast and bacteria to maintain and support feminine intimate health. Ideal if you suffer from recurrent yeast (candidiasis), bacterial vaginosis and UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) infections.
Lubricant
This light formula is created to work in harmony with your body’s ecosystem, not against it. The power of Liquid Gold Lube doesn’t end there, you also get to enjoy the antioxidant benefits of rooibos as you enjoy the ride. Lube reduces friction, therefore lessening your risk of injury during sex. And if you’re using condoms, lube also makes it less likely that it’ll break or fall off, therefore increasing your protection against STIs including HIV.
Sex Toy Wipes
Ppsssstttt, listen up if you’re a sex toy girlie! Using unsanitary sex toys can potentially introduce unwanted bacteria into the vaginal environment. This can lead to the overgrowth of bacteria known as bacterial vaginosis or cause a urinary tract infection, says Joburg-based specialist obstetrician, gynaecologist and aesthetic gynaecologist Dr Esther Rockson. We recommend these individually wrapped toy cleansing wipes that are made with all-natural ingredients. They’re paraben-free, alcohol-free, hypoallergenic, pH balanced and cruelty-free) and are safe for both the body and sex toys.
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STI Testing Kit
The BASIC 3 STI Test is a DNA test for three common STI’s will give you peace of mind without a trip to the clinic! Try at-home STI testing for fast and private results. This test detects current infection of 3 common STIs using a urine sample. This sample kit includes a urine sample collection device. Your urine sample is collected and sent for DNA testing at the BioSmart laboratory for trichomonas vaginalis, chlamydia trachomatis and neisseria gonorrhoea.
HIV Rapid Test
Practising safe sex is the most important aspect of having sex. No pleasure is worth the potentially life-threatening consequences of having unprotected sex. But things do go wrong and sometimes no matter how well you are prepared, things don’t always go to plan and mistakes can happen. It’s always best to go to a qualified person, who will be able to offer you counselling should you receive a positive result, but for whatever reason, should you need to do a test at home, this HIV test will give you results in 10 to 15 minutes. If you do get a positive result, consult a health practitioner as soon as possible.
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Menstrual Cup
We’re all becoming more and more aware of how the effects of living are impacting our environment in a negative way. One very simple way of lessening such an impact is to use a reusable menstrual cup, which will replace tampons and pads. It’s also a great way to save money since it will last for years. The My Cup’in has no dyes, BPS, phthalates, plastics or toxins and is a great body-safe alternative, allowing you to collect your fluid without any odour, mess or discomfort.
Intimate Wash
Before you read on, heed Dr Rockson’s wise words: “The inside of a vagina isn’t meant to be washed with products, so water and just your finger will do. For the vulva (the outer part), plain water will also do, but you may also use a mild, non-acidic soap that doesn’t irritate the skin,” says Dr Rockson. We love this OG intimate wash by Gynaguard that gently rinses away odour-causing germs from your most sensitive areas, without causing dryness or irritation, while supporting and reinforcing a healthy pH balance.
