Sexual Health Awareness Month: Sex therapist, Mary Jo Rapini, Addresses 5 "Intimate Misconceptions"
HOUSTON, Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Embarrassment and lack of knowledge can cause intimate misconceptions about sexual health, wellbeing and pleasure. Sex therapist, Mary Jo Rapini, debunks five common myths.
"Many women are confused about their sexual health; from how to maintain optimal vaginal health and activate the libido, to why they might be experiencing dryness and painful sex, to the difference between a vibrator and a pelvic floor exerciser," says Rapini. "The following 'intimate misconceptions' are rampant among women of all ages."
1. All sex toys and devices are created equal.
First, there are vibrators that help you reach the big 'O' with a partner or for self-pleasure. Some devices, like Fiera, help get you in the mood for sex by encouraging blood flow to the clitoris. Think of this as an option to warm up the libido before foreplay- some consider it the female equivalent to Viagra, except without pills or side effects. A medical device like Intensity functions to strengthen the pelvic floor as an automatic Kegel exerciser, and precipitates orgasm through dual vibrators to the clitoris and G-spot.
2. There's no way to douche safely.
It's true that traditional douching can upset the natural pH of the vagina, eliminating the good bacteria along with the bad, causing more harm than good. But, if you're going to douche, and 70% of women still do, make sure to rebalance the normal pH range of 3.5-4.8 immediately following cleansing with RepHresh pH balancing Gel or use Clean Balance Kit that includes a two-step process to help return the vagina to a healthy pH range, keep bad bacteria from overpopulating, and eliminate odor and discomfort for days.
3. A lubricant and moisturizer are the same.
Most lubricants like Silky Smooth are used just prior to sex to ease penetration, reduce abrasion and enhance intimacy. A hormone-free moisturizer, like Replens replenishes vaginal moisture for up to three days when you're dry post-partum, after a cancer diagnosis or experiencing menopausal symptoms.
4. There's no difference between the vulva and the vagina.
The vulva and the vagina are not interchangeable terms! All external genitalia surrounding the vaginal opening is called the vulva – in other words, the vulva is all the parts you can see. The vagina is an internal canal that begins at the port of entry to the vagina and ends at the cervix.
5. Only older women experience vaginal dryness.
Sure, dryness is a consequence of declining estrogen levels in menopause, but vaginal dryness can occur at any age due to menstruation, tampon use, post-partum, exercise, diabetes or cancer treatment. External dryness and irritation can occur with normal daily activities like walking, prolonged sitting, exercising, running and bike riding. Replens Moisture Restore External Comfort Gel provides comfort and alleviates irritation of the outside skin surrounding the vagina. Internal dryness should be dealt with by using a vaginal moisturizer like Replens every 3 days just like you would use a skin moisturizer on your face or hands.
"Being informed of these misconceptions allows women to deal with vaginal issues when they arise, maintain proper feminine health, and enjoy sex and regular daily activities in every stage of life," adds Rapini.
SOURCE Mary Jo Rapini
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