The Ultimate Guide to Sexual Health for Lesbians

Sexual health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and it's important for everyone, including lesbians, to have access to accurate and inclusive information. This guide aims to provide comprehensive, practical, and affirming advice to help you maintain a healthy and satisfying sex life.

 

Note: This guide is for sex between people with vaginas exclusively. If you have sex with people who have penises and vaginas, please see our guide to bisexual health!

 

Understanding Sexual Health

Sexual health encompasses more than just the absence of disease; it's about enjoying a fulfilling and safe sex life, understanding your body, and making informed choices. The key components include:

• Physical Health: Preventing and treating sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and maintaining reproductive health.
• Emotional Health: Building healthy relationships, managing stress, and mental health.
• Social Health: Navigating social norms, stigma, and accessing supportive communities and services.

 

Common Myths and Misconceptions

Myth: Lesbians don't need to worry about STIs.

• Fact: While the risk of some STIs may be lower, lesbians can still contract and transmit infections through various sexual activities.

Myth: Lesbians don't need regular gynecological exams.

• Fact: Regular check-ups are important for all women, regardless of sexual orientation, to monitor reproductive health.

Myth: Lesbians don't face mental health challenges related to their sexual orientation.

• Fact: Lesbians can experience stress, anxiety, and depression due to societal stigma and discrimination.

 

Safer Sex Practices

Use Protection: Utilize dental dams, gloves, and condoms for safer sex practices. These barriers can help reduce the risk of STI transmission during oral sex, digital penetration, and the use of sex toys.

Regular Testing: Get tested for STIs regularly, especially if you have new or multiple partners. Early detection is crucial for treatment and prevention of further transmission.

Hygiene and Toy Safety: Clean sex toys thoroughly before and after use, and avoid sharing them without proper sterilization.

Open Communication: Discuss sexual health openly with your partners, including STI status, testing history, and boundaries.

 

Prep!

Not just for gay men, lesbians need to be on PreP to protect themselves against HIV. Everyone has to do their part to end new infections once and for all! Learn more about PreP here!

 

Why Lesbians Need the HPV Vaccine

HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including genital-to-genital and oral-genital contact. Lesbians are at risk if they engage in these activities. HPV can cause cervical, anal, and other cancers, affecting all women regardless of sexual orientation. Some lesbians believe they are not at risk for HPV, leading to lower vaccination and screening rates, which can result in undiagnosed and untreated HPV-related health issues.

 

Benefits of the HPV Vaccine

The vaccine protects against the HPV types that most commonly cause cervical, anal, and other cancers. The vaccine also protects against the types of HPV that cause genital warts. Vaccinating a significant portion of the population helps reduce the overall prevalence of HPV, protecting those who are unvaccinated or have not completed the vaccine series.

 

Period Sex is equal to Anal Sex in Risk

Blood is the best highway for most pathogens. It might be sexy but we don't live in the Twilight universe.

 

Increased Risk of STIs:

• Higher Transmission Rates: Blood can carry a higher concentration of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), making it easier for these infections to be transmitted during period sex.
• Weakened Cervical Mucus: The cervix may be slightly more open during menstruation, potentially making it easier for infections to enter the body.

Higher Risk of Bacterial Infections:

• Altered Vaginal Environment: Menstruation can alter the vaginal pH and bacterial balance, increasing the risk of bacterial infections, such as bacterial vaginosis.

 

Tips for Maintaining Genital Health

Regular Screenings: Get regular screenings for STIs, including HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Also, discuss the frequency of anal Pap smears with your healthcare provider to screen for HPV and other issues.

Hygiene: Keep the area clean by washing with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or excessive scrubbing.

Diet and Hydration: A diet high in fiber and adequate hydration can prevent constipation and promote healthy bowel movements, reducing strain on the rectal area. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports overall health, including the health of your reproductive system. Staying well-hydrated helps maintain mucous membranes, including those in the vaginal area.

Avoiding Trauma: Use caution with sex toys and ensure they are clean and used safely to avoid injury.

Recognizing Problems

Be aware of symptoms like persistent pain, swelling, lumps, unusual discharge, or changes in the appearance of the penis or testicles. Be aware of symptoms like persistent pain, unusual discharge, itching, burning, or bleeding outside of your regular menstrual cycle. Be aware of symptoms like persistent pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, and seek medical advice if these occur. Early detection of issues is key to effective treatment.

 

 

Navigating Healthcare

Find an Inclusive Provider: Look for healthcare providers who are knowledgeable and supportive of bisexual and pansexual identities. Don’t hesitate to ask about their experience with LGBTQ+ patients. However, keep in mind, old school, pro-dignity providers will offer the best balance of acceptance and caution.

Be Honest: The three people you always to the IRS, your hairstylist, or your Doctor. Be open with your healthcare provider about your sexual orientation and behaviors. This information is crucial for receiving appropriate care and recommendations.

Seek Regular Check-Ups: Regular visits to the doctor are important for monitoring your overall health, including sexual health.

 

Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Combat Stigma: Acknowledge and challenge internalized stigma, and seek out supportive environments where your identity is respected.

Mental Health Support: Therapy and counseling can be invaluable for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues related to societal pressures and discrimination.

Build Support Networks: Connect with other lesbians through support groups, online forums, or community organizations to build a sense of community and support.

 

Healthy Relationships

Domestic violence rates within the LGBTQ+ community often surpass those in heterosexual relationships - lesbians specifically. According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, approximately 44% of lesbian women and 61% of bisexual women experience rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. This is compared to 35% of heterosexual women. Among men, 26% of gay men and 37% of bisexual men report similar experiences, compared to 29% of heterosexual men​ (WomensLaw.org)​​ (DomesticShelters.org)​

 

Consent is Key: Ensure that all sexual activity is consensual. Respect your partner’s boundaries and communicate your own clearly.

Equal Partnerships: Strive for balance and equality in your relationships, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Respect and Validation: Seek partners who respect and validate your lesbian identity. Avoid those who dismiss or invalidate your experiences.

 

Resources

LGBTQ+ Centers: Many cities have LGBTQ+ centers that offer health services, counseling, and support groups specifically for lesbians.

Online Resources: Websites like Planned Parenthood, the CDC, and LGBTQ+ health organizations provide valuable information and resources.

Hotlines: Hotlines like the Trevor Project offer immediate support for mental health crises.

 

Wrap Up

Sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being. By taking proactive steps to protect yourself, seeking inclusive healthcare, and maintaining open and honest communication with your partners, you can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling sex life. Remember, your identity is valid, and taking care of your sexual health is an important part of loving yourself.