Embrace your authentic self this Pride – & that includes your sex life...
This article is sponsored by Durex
At Boots, we’re here to champion your authentic self, during Pride month and all year round. But, how can you translate this confidence into your sexual life?
We’ve teamed up with Durex to talk about all things sexual pleasure, from ways to communicate to Durex essentials, and what they’re best for.
Let’s talk about sex, baby…
How to understand your pleasure
Sex is all about embracing pleasure. It might feel weird or uncomfortable at first but understanding what you like and don’t like is key to having the best experience, both for you and your partner.
Not sure where to start? Here are some ways you can get in tune with your body:
- Understand your body’s needs. You might not like having sex late at night because you’re worried about not getting enough sleep; or, you might prefer sex in the morning because you feel rested and more awake. It’s completely up to personal preference, but understanding your different energy and mood levels will help you understand the best time for you to have sex
- Try out body mapping. This mindfulness technique is all about feeling aware of the different sensations in your body. To do this, find somewhere quiet and take some deep breaths. Try to think about what parts of your body you associate with pleasure, or which ones make you feel relaxed or uncomfortable. Having this awareness of your body will help you feel more comfortable over time, and know what areas you’d like to include in sexual activities going forward
How can I tell my partner what I like?
It might be a little awkward telling your partner what you’re into – but it’s the only way you can make sure you’re both happy with any sexual activities you’re doing.
Our tips?
- Start the conversation outside of the bedroom. It might feel a bit silly, but being fully clothed may help you feel a bit less vulnerable or, pardon the pun, naked talking about your feelings
- Make a yes and no list with your partner. Together, work through things that do and don’t do it for you, adding it to the ‘yes’ list if you’re both happy with doing it, or ‘no’ if you’re not. That way, when you’re having sex, you’ve already established a list of things you both enjoy
- If you like something that your partner does, tell them! By communicating that you’re enjoying certain things, they’ll know to do it more or do it again in the future
Discover your Durex essentials
There’s a Durex product for everything – whether you’re looking for condoms to help prevent STIs or pregnancy, or lube to help with vaginal dryness or prepare yourself and your partner for anal sex.
Remember, for the best protection against STIs and pregnancy, make sure to use a new condom every time, including when you change to different types of sex.
For protection against STIs & pregnancy
Consider: Durex Nude Condoms
• Pack of 12
• Regular size
Their thinnest condom yet, Durex Nude is designed to help you and your partner feel it all. Easy to use, this pack of condoms can help you and your partner practice safer sex, helping protect you both against STIs and pregnancy.
For a silky-smooth sensation
Consider: Durex Perfect Glide Silicone-Based Lube
• Size: 50ml
• Silicone-based
• Suitable for anal, oral & vaginal sex
Help enhance pleasure with Durex’s long-lasting lube. Alongside helping ease anal and oral sex, this lube can also be used to help with vaginal dryness. Plus, you can use this alongside Durex’s selection of condoms without fear of breakage.
For enhancing pleasure without upsetting pH
Consider: Durex Naturals Extra Sensitive Water-Based Lube
• Size: 100ml
• Water-based
• Suitable for anal, oral & vaginal sex
Discomfort? Soothed, thanks to Durex’s 100% natural water-based lube. Safe to use with Durex condoms, this lube can help with any dryness or discomfort, while being pH-friendly and free from any artificial fragrances and colourants.
Sex is all about pleasure, and taking the time to understand and communicate what you like and don’t like is the best way to make your experience even better. For more advice about safer sex, make sure to explore our Health Hub.
