Sexual intimacy should be approached with maximum responsibility. There are points that should be discussed immediately – to avoid both psychological discomfort and negative consequences for physical health. We have prepared a list of the most important topics for a frank one-on-one conversation, according to MODISTA.

Health safety

At this stage, the conversation should cover protection against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, as well as the presence of allergies in each partner to certain materials and compounds – latex, spermicides, individual components of lubricants, etc.

Mechanical protection is mandatory for the first contact. It is necessary not only to buy Olo condoms or others whose quality and reliability are beyond doubt in advance, but also to discuss who will be responsible for their proper use.

Information about when each person in the couple was last tested for STIs – classic and conditional STDs – will also be helpful.

Boundaries and consent

The term consent means mutual agreement. Any actions by one partner during intimacy must occur only with the consent of the other. Coercion from either side is unacceptable. Moreover, one of the partners may withdraw their consent at a certain moment, and the other must respect that decision.

Inform your partner in advance about what you categorically do not wish to do and take into account the limitations from the opposite side. This may relate to certain caresses, positions, or practices. Agree on a safe word that will signal that the partner must stop immediately.

Take care of physical comfort. If a lubricant or other auxiliary means is needed, it is important not only to have it at hand, but also to obtain consent from the other party for its use. This also applies to various sex toys. After making sure your partner is not against their use, you can order such items on the MAUDAU online marketplace or buy them in an offline sex shop.

Expectations and emotions

If one partner perceives intimacy as the next stage of a long-term relationship, and the other only as a casual episode, misunderstandings are inevitable. Therefore, this point also requires discussion.

Some people are overly sensitive and may cry, sing, dance, or otherwise express their emotions during or after the act. It is worth informing your partner about this in advance: if they have a more reserved temperament, such behavior may surprise or even frighten them.

Are you shy about voicing your most secret wishes, preferences, and deal-breakers? You can write them on a postcard or simply on a sheet of paper, put it in an envelope, give it to your partner, and receive the same from them. This format will help avoid discomfort.

However, if the other half of the couple categorically refuses to talk about these topics, even in written form, this is a reason to think about the appropriateness and timeliness of intimacy.