Safe Sex and Cervical Health
Sex is fun and exciting... We get it, it’s great. But like anything great, it comes with risks if safe sex isn't practiced. Sure, you’re not clueless, we all know the importance of protecting ourselves and our partners from STIs and unintended pregnancies. But in the heat of the moment, precautions can sometimes slip our minds.
The problem?
Just one lapse in protection can make all the difference between good and poor cervical health.
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a super common STI.
HPV spreads easily through vaginal, oral, or any skin-to-skin genital contact, and even sharing sex toys.
If you already knew that - great, you’ve done your due dligence! But if you didn’t, that’s okay too.
What matters is that if you’re sexually active, you stay informed and aware - because knowing the facts is key to protecting your health.
How Can I Protect My Cervical Health?
Protecting Against STIs
Get Tested
Getting tested regularly is a must, especially if you're sexually active, have multiple partners, or engage in unprotected sex.
Sexual health screenings are super important for catching STIs early, getting the right treatment, and stopping them from spreading.
And don’t be shy, if you're getting intimate with someone, it’s totally okay (and actually really smart) to ask about their sexual health and whether they’ve been tested. A quick chat now can save a whole lot of trouble and regret later!
Find your nearest sexual health clinic here.
Condoms
One of the easiest ways to protect your cervical health? Use condoms every time.
Making sure you (or your partner) wrap it up is a game-changer. Skins Sexual Health has loads of options that do exactly what they say on the box. Ultra-thin, extra-large, fruity, dots & ribs - because, believe it or not, condoms don’t have to kill the mood.
Read more: Guide to Condoms
Smear Test
If you're between 25 and 64, booking your cervical smear test is a non-negotiable. These screenings, recommended every five years, are crucial for detecting early signs of cervical cancer and helping prevent it before it becomes a bigger issue. It’s a small step that can make a huge difference to your health - so don’t put it off!
To learn more information about cervical screenings, head on over to the NHS website.
Partner Reductions
While it's completely your choice, if you want to protect your cervical health, consider limiting your number of sexual partners. The more partners you have, the higher the risk of exposure to STIs, so being mindful of this can help reduce the chances of infection and keep your sexual health in check.
Keep Clean
If you and your partner use sex toys (which if you don’t, 10/10 would recommend!), make sure you’re keeping them clean and using them safely. Wash them thoroughly before and after use using either warm soapy water or Skins Cleanse Toy Cleaner, follow any care instructions, and never share them during play without properly sanitising first.
Read more: How to Clean a Sex Toy
It’s a simple step that helps prevent the spread of bacteria and STIs because fun should never come at the cost of your cervical health!
Protecting Against Injury
While STIs play a significant role in cervical health, they’re not the only factor to consider. Other things can also affect your cervix, including lack of lubrication. Not using lube, especially during penetrative sex or when using sex toys, can lead to discomfort and even small tears or grazes in the vaginal tissue, increasing the risk of infection.
Lube can make sex more comfortable, enjoyable, and safer for your body. If you’re not feeling naturally lubricated enough, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with reaching for some!
Water-based lubes are great for use with condoms and toys, while silicone-based lubes last longer and can be ideal for certain types of play. Prioritising comfort isn’t just about pleasure - it’s about protecting your health too.
Further reading:
Taking care of your cervical health isn’t about fear, it’s about empowerment. From using protection and getting regular screenings to staying informed and having open conversations, every small step adds up to a healthier, happier you.
Your sexual health is just as important as any other aspect of your well-being, so don’t shy away from prioritising it.
Stay safe, stay informed, and most importantly - take control of your cervical health with confidence!
