What to do after sex, according to the sexperts

Don't let the act itself get all the attention: what to do after sex is incredibly important not only for your relationship, but your wellbeing. 

Couples tend to up the ante with foreplay ideas and work up towards satisfying orgasms, but that should not be the grand finale. According to Megan Fleming PhD, Certified Sex and Relationship Psychologist at Lovehoney, there are post-sex steps that should not go ignored (like visiting the restroom and cleaning your best app-controlled vibrators).

Here's what she suggests: 

What to do after sex

1. Pee

According to Medical News Today, women are encouraged to pee after sex to flush bacteria out of the urethra, which can in turn help prevent a UTI, though it is not necessarily a guarantee. According to Healthline, some medical professionals also suggest peeing before you engage in sex to lower your STI risk.

2. Do some downstairs cleaning

Though the vagina is a self-cleaning organ, you'll probably want a little extra TLC after a few steamy moments. What gynecologists want you to know is that scented feminine toiletries are prone to disturbing your pH balance, so make sure to stick to soap and water. 

3. Clean your toys

If you're looking for a step-by-step guide for how to clean sex toys, we spoke to the wellness pros and got the lowdown on how to properly sanitize your collection according to type, make and so forth. 

"Cleaning your sex toys before and after helps to prevent infections, as bacteria can linger if they aren’t washed regularly," Alexandra Fine, a sexologist and the CEO of Dame Products, previously told My Imperfect Life.

Likewise, Danyell Fima, co-founder of The Thruster, insists to get to the scrubbing ASAP.

"Don’t wait to clean—make a habit of cleaning it right away," she said. "If you have the luxury of privacy, keep a lint-free towel handy to lay out your items to dry. It’s a reminder to do the work and when you're ready tuck them away in a clean dry place."

4. Have a chat

Talking about sex with your partner will make the act better, according to the pros.  We-Vibe teamed up with sex therapists to analyze couple's communication methods, and it turns out 85% of partners felt that talking about their most intimate moments positively affected their relationship. In fact, not talking about intimacy can oftentimes lead to disconnect and sexual discrepancies. 

If you want to feel comfortable about expressing your desires and needs to your partner, sexperts suggest practicing self-love to uncover what really works for you.  They insist masturbation shouldn’t be an uneasy conversation, especially since it leads to women's most intense orgasms. 

5. Plan to switch things up

We might believe that there is a best time of the day to have sex, but in reality, it's all about doing what works well for you. Suggesting to switch things up or try something new is just a way to keep things lively.

6. Grab fresh undies

Sure, not washing up properly could cause a UTI, but rather than put on a pair of briefs or a thong that you've been in all day, skip the threat of bacteria and opt for a fresh pair of undergarments. 

Once  you've checked these items off your sexual to-do, you'll feel better knowing you were proactive with your health and your connection with your partner. But to amp up that steaminess during all the fun, we suggest you have a gander at our roundup of the best sex tips.