By Justin.
Mississippi has some of the highest sexually transmitted disease (STI) rates in the nation. As the number of STIs continue to remain so high, it is so important that we maintain our sexual health. Health professionals suggest STI testing every three months for those who are engaging in unprotected sex, while others using protection during sex are suggested to test every six months to a year. Unfortunately, testing isn’t your only concern. Aside from having to worry about your partner’s status, you then have to make sure that you are taking good care of your “Pink Parts.”
Many people are unaware of what “Pink Parts” are, so I’m here to help you understand what they are and why it’s so important to take good care of them.
What Are Pink Parts?
Both males and females have pink parts, which include:
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Mouth
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Vagina
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Urethra
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Anus
Why are these parts so important?
These are the places that are highly susceptible to allow bacteria or viruses, including STIs, to enter your body.
Take Precautions!
There are daily activities that most of us engage in, but we never really think about how harmful they can be to our Pink Parts if done improperly.
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Brushing Your Teeth
An activity such as brushing your teeth can actually make you more susceptible to contracting an STI. The bristles on a toothbrush can be very abrasive and can potentially puncture your gums, leaving an opening for bacteria and viruses to enter, including STIs. Our mouths and especially our tonsils are very sensitive to certain things, and this alone could put someone at high risk for contracting oral gonorrhea or oral chlamydia if they engage in oral sex. So when you brush your teeth, make sure you don’t brush too vigorously so ensure you don’t puncture your gums!
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Vagina and Anal Douching
Brushing your teeth too harshly isn’t your only worry, though! Women and men who douche also need to be aware of their risks. Even though a douche is meant for good, it can also cause tearing of the anus and the vagina if done too aggressively. This can leave you more exposed and vulnerable to contract and/or transmit an STI, especially if one is likely to partake in unprotected sex.
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Urethra
Although there aren’t any objects that are regularly inserted inside of the urethra, it is still an exposed opening that can allow unwanted bacteria and viruses to enter, including STIs. The best way to prevent this is to practice safe sex by using condoms when engaging in sexual intercourse.
So protect your Pink Parts! Doing so will help you protect yourself from contracting and/or transmitting an STI.
