From enhancing pleasure to practising safe sex, let’s explore sexual wellness together
This article is sponsored by Lovehoney, Durex, Cialis Together, Eroxon, Viagra Connect & EllaOne
Sexual health is an important part of your overall wellbeing, yet nearly half of the UK’s sexually active adults (48%) still find talking about sexual health embarrassing.* Despite this, recent studies indicate a desire to know more.
At Boots, we’re here to help break down these barriers. Talking about sex doesn’t have to feel awkward or embarrassing – after all, it’s a natural, healthy and enjoyable part of life for many. By understanding and embracing this aspect of ourselves, we can take control of our sexual wellness, enhance self-esteem and move towards a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking to enhance intimacy, support sexual health or feel empowered in your choices, we’ve got the services, products and advice to support you every step of the way.
For enhancing sexual pleasure
Discovering what makes you or your partner tick takes time, exploration and the right tools. Products such as sex toys and lubricants are a great way to take pleasure to the next level.
Try: Lovehoney Ignite 20 Function Rechargeable Mini Wand Vibrator
• Discreet storage bag included
• Totally waterproof
• USB rechargeable
Take your erotic adventures to new heights with this mini massage vibrator. Featuring three vibration speeds and 17 patterns to enhance soothing strokes and full-body thrills, it packs plenty of power into a petite package – making it easier than ever to find your sweet spots.
Try: Durex Naturals Extra Sensitive Water Based Lube
• Size: 100ml
• 100% natural ingredients
• Designed to make sex smoother
Did you know the amount of natural lubrication varies throughout the menstrual cycle? Natural lubrication will be highest around ovulation when oestrogen levels peak. During the remaining part of the cycle you may feel a bit drier – that’s where Durex lube comes into play. With its pH-friendly, fragrance-free formula, it’s designed to enhance pleasure and soothe discomfort.
For a helping hand
Sexual health challenges like erectile dysfunction (ED) are very common, particularly in men over 40. ED is the term used to describe the difficulty of getting and maintaining an erection firm enough for sex. It often stems from a combination of reduced blood flow to the penis and associated performance anxiety.
We recommend seeing a GP if you're regularly experiencing ED difficulties to help rule out any potential underlying conditions. ED treatments are accessible from a number of places such as your local pharmacy, your GP or a local sexual health clinic. Alternatively, Boots Online Doctor** offers confidential advice and treatment to help you achieve strong, longer-lasting erections.
Consider: Cialis Together 10mg Tablets - Tadalafil
• Size: 4 tablets
• Effective for up to 36 hours
• Only works when you’re sexually aroused
Cialis Together is a long-lasting ED treatment that helps you get and maintain an erection when you need it within a window of up to 36 hours – leaving you with plenty of time to decide when the time is right for you and your partner!
Cialis Together 10mg Tablets - Tadalafil 4 Tablets are suitable for men aged 18 years and over. Contains tadalafil. For erection problems. Always read the label. Subject to suitability assessment by a pharmacist.
Try: Eroxon Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Gel
• Size: 4-pack
• Clinically proven gel treatment
• Helps you get an erection within 10 minutes
Eroxon Treatment Gel is an easy-to-use topical gel that delivers rapid cooling followed by a gradual warming effect. This stimulates the nerve endings, helping men to get an erection within 10 minutes of application if you are sexually aroused.
Top tip: For best results, use Eroxon together during foreplay.
Consider: Viagra Connect 50mg film-coated tablets
• Size: 2 tablets
• Can be taken up to 4 hours before sexual activity
Viagra Connect tablets are an easy to use and discreet oral tablet that starts to work within 30-60 minutes of taking it.
Viagra Connect film-coated tablets are suitable for men aged 18 years and over. Contains sildenafil. For erection problems. Always read the label. Subject to suitability assessment by a pharmacist.
Understanding safer sex
It’s important to know how to look after your sexual health, including how to practise safe sex. This helps to reduce the risk of getting or passing on a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and unplanned pregnancy.
Regular STI testing and access to contraception are key components of sexual wellness. Condoms are unique because they protect against both pregnancy and STIs. When used correctly, they’re up to 98% effective.
Even with precautions, things don’t always go to plan. In such situations, emergency hormonal contraception can help. If you’ve had unprotected sex or your usual contraception failed you, the morning after pill can help delay or prevent ovulation. However, the morning after pill is intended for emergency use only and shouldn’t be relied on as a regular form of contraception.
Consider: EllaOne 30mg Film-Coated Tablet
• Size: 1 tablet
• Must be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex
EllaOne is an emergency contraception tablet that works best when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It delays ovulation to prevent pregnancy, offering peace of mind in unexpected situations.
EllaOne 30mg Film-Coated Tablet is suitable for women of childbearing age, including adolescents. Contains ulipristal acetate. Always read the label.
For more advice and access to oral contraception, take a look at the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service.^
Now that we’ve shared some of our favourite products, get ready to take charge of your sexual health and wellbeing. For more sexual health services and advice, visit Boots Online Doctor.** From discreet test kits to prescription treatments delivered to your door, we’re here to make sexual health issues easier.
