What is STI testing? STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests only require a blood test and either a self-collected swab or a urine sample. Why is STI testing important? […]
It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day! It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well, that’s a no brainer. Here at Play Safe, we’ll take any excuse to celebrate condoms, but today, on National Condom […]
World AIDS Day Ever wondered why you see red ribbons everywhere in early December? Well, it’s because of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st of December each year and is all about showing support for people living with HIV, raising awareness about HIV prevention, testing […]
What is STI testing? STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests only require a blood test and either a self-collected swab or a urine sample. Why is STI testing important? […]
It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day! It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well, that’s a no brainer. Here at Play Safe, we’ll take any excuse to celebrate condoms, but today, on National Condom […]
World AIDS Day Ever wondered why you see red ribbons everywhere in early December? Well, it’s because of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st of December each year and is all about showing support for people living with HIV, raising awareness about HIV prevention, testing […]
What is contraception? Contraception, also sometimes referred to as ‘birth control’, is something people can use when they want to have sex that can result in pregnancy, but do not want to become pregnant or have a baby. Understanding contraception and figuring out the best contraceptive method for you is […]
Vaginal pain during sex is more common than you might think. Here, we discuss the different causes of vaginal pain during sex, how you can address it with your partner, and how to know when it’s time to see a doctor.
If your partner’s being a bit too rough, let them know. Rough sex is common in porn but not everyone gets off from it. Look to each other for cues about what feels good and what doesn’t.
Lubrication helps make sex comfortable.
Making sure to have plenty of foreplay will help your body naturally lubricate, but if you could still use more moisture lube can help. Using plenty of lube, being gentle during sex, and keeping fingernails short for fingering can help reduce pain.
Thrush and Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can cause pain during sex and urination. These conditions aren’t sexually transmissible, and generally require a simple course of medication to treat. Visit your GP if you think you might have Thrush or a UTI.
Vaginismus and Endometriosis are sources of chronic sexual pain. You may need to visit a specialist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Allergic reactions to latex condoms can cause pain and an itchy rash. If you react to latex, use condoms made from polyisoprene or polyurethane.
There are times when pain is the result of an STI. If you feel a deep pelvic pain or have vaginal bleeding during penetrative sex, it’s important to see a doctor. Most STIs are easily treated with prescription medicine and getting tested is really simple too.
Think you might have an STI? Try our quick quiz.
There are lots of different things that can lead to pain during sex – some of them you can work through with your partner, and others your doctor can diagnose and treat. If you’re experiencing new pain, pain that won’t go away, or you’re noticing symptoms that bother you, pay a visit to your doctor.
If you want to know more call 1800 451 624 between 9:00am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday to talk with a sexual health nurse. It’s confidential and free if you call from a landline. Or alternatively asked our Nurse Nette online.
Foreplay is usually a big part of sex – some might even say the best part. What is foreplay? Foreplay builds sexual arousal and pleasure through physical and mental stimulation. Touching, kissing, licking, dirty talk, teasing, – as long as it’s consensual, pleasurable and safe, there’s no right or wrong […]
There’s a lot of confusion about what the vagina ‘should’ look, feel or smell like. So, here are some simple facts (vagina 101) to clear the rumours. The vagina is mostly an internal organ, and what we see externally are the parts of the body that make up the vulva. […]