A healthy sex life can mean a variety of things. The most important thing is that it's your sex life we're talking about. So that means finding out what makes you comfortable, and what works for you.

It might be that this varies over time and it can depend on many things. Sometimes your sex life is busy and other times it’s less of a priority, but either way it can still be a healthy sex life.

It’s all about you taking control and managing your situation. Hopefully that will produce a result that fulfils both you and your partners.

What you can do

Here are some strategies to help you manage your sex life:

• get regular checkups
• keep up-to-date on sexual health matters
• take action if you notice anything out of the ordinary
• get help with sexual problems or dysfunctions
• talk to your partner.

Your sex life is going to change as time passes, just as other aspects of your life do. A bit of thought means that your sex life can contribute to the rest of your life rather than detracting from it.

Checkups

If you go to your local genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic you can get a regular free checkup for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You might be able get this service from your doctor (GP) but GUM clinics will protect your confidentiality (you can even remain anonymous, although if you do give your name this information won’t be passed onto any other agencies).

Having regular checkups means that you’ll have a clear picture of your sexual health. So not only will you be able to relax, but you’ll be in a better position to talk to your partners.

Keeping up-to-date

It's sensible to keep up-to-date on sexual health matters. After all, things do change: while some issues might be less of a worry now than they were in the past, you should be aware of any new infections and how they may affect your sex life. You can get this information at your GUM clinic or online.

Take action

If you notice anything unusual about your sexual health, get it checked. Most STIs can be cured with no lasting effect to your health if they are dealt with early enough and if you follow the medication instructions.

If your symptoms seem trivial or embarrassing, then you could call a sexual health helpline and get some initial advice over the phone.

Sexual dysfunction

Similarly, if you’re suffering from a sexual problem or dysfunction it might be worth getting some help. A lot of these problems have a biological basis and can be treated successfully.

It could be that you’re suffering for nothing. The professionals who deal with these things have often dealt with similar cases as that’s what they do every day. You can find out more from the Sexual Dysfunction Association.

Talk to your partner

Communication with your partner is vital. What kind of safer sex measures would they rather take? What do you prefer?

Not everyone feels comfortable disclosing everything about their sexual health. Safer sex means that this shouldn't be a problem. If you have different ideas then try to reach a compromise that makes you both feel comfortable.