It seems like everyone’s talking about sex these days. From Taylor Swift openly owning her narrative to growing conversations about sex positivity on social media, the taboo around talking about sex is finally starting to fade. But while the cultural conversation evolves, one thing hasn’t changed: the basics of sexual health, hygiene, and hormones still matter.
And yes, it’s still true: The CDC once had to remind people not to reuse condoms. Let’s just say that bears repeating.
Protect Yourself First
We’ve come a long way in how we talk about sex, but that doesn’t mean people are always taking the best steps to protect themselves. In 2024, the CDC reported rising rates of syphilis and gonorrhea, particularly in people aged 20 to 40. And with the easy availability of hookup apps, porn, and casual sex, the expectation of safety needs to be even stronger.
So here’s the deal:
- Use a new condom every time.
- Get tested regularly—every 6 months if you’re not in a monogamous relationship.
- Don’t take someone’s word for it.
Have the conversation. Share your results. That’s real intimacy.
As author and sex educator Emily Nagoski puts it:
“Consent and communication aren’t just sexy—they’re safety.”
Hygiene Isn’t Optional
If you’ve ever had a post-sex UTI or yeast infection, you’re not alone. Women’s anatomy makes us more susceptible to bacteria moving where it doesn’t belong. The good news? A little prevention goes a long way.
Before sex:
- Wash your hands and genitals.
- If you’re using toys, clean them thoroughly and sanitize them regularly (dishwasher-safe options exist—just check your settings!).
After sex:
- Urinate to flush out bacteria.
- Use pH-balanced cleansing products if needed.
- Skip harsh soaps and douching, which can throw off your vaginal flora.
If you tend to get infections frequently, you might consider vaginal probiotics after intercourse to re-acidify the vaginal environment and keep your microbiome balanced.
Feeling “Off”? It Might Be Hormonal.
If your sex drive has taken a nosedive, or sex feels more like a chore than a connection, it might not just be stress or age. Hormonal imbalance is one of the most common reasons for low libido, vaginal dryness, or just not feeling “in the mood.”
At AIM, we specialize in hormone testing and bioidentical hormone therapies for both men and women. Whether it’s testosterone, estrogen, progesterone—or the delicate dance between them—we’re here to help you find balance naturally.
Sex should be joyful, safe, and empowering—at any age.
Let’s Talk About It
Here at Alpine Integrated Medicine, we don’t shy away from these conversations. We believe sex is part of your overall wellness, and we’re always happy to discuss everything from STD prevention to hormone support to enhancing your intimacy and vitality.
If you’re curious about how to feel better in your body—or want to make sure everything is working optimally—book a visit. Whether it’s for testing, hormone evaluation, or just an honest conversation, we’re here for you.
Because as George Michael said:
“Sex is natural, sex is good…”
Just don’t reuse your condoms—and wash up afterward.