Sex is a fundamental part of the human experience, and it’s important to practice safe and healthy habits when engaging in sexual activity.

While it’s true that both genders share the responsibility of staying protected during sex, there are certain attitudes that men should avoid to ensure that they stay healthy and safe. Let’s dive into the three attitudes that men should avoid when it comes to safe and healthy sex.

Attitude #1: Overconfidence

Men often have a tendency to be overconfident when it comes to sex, and this can lead to unsafe and unhealthy practices. Overconfidence can manifest in several ways, such as:.

Not using protection because “it won’t happen to me”
Believing that their sexual partner is “clean” or “safe” without getting tested or having a conversation about sexual history
Assuming that they are not at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) because of their age, sexual preference, or relationship status

However, the truth is that anyone can contract an STI, and it’s important to take the necessary precautions each time you engage in sexual activity.

Overconfidence can lead to careless behavior that can put you and your sexual partner at risk of contracting an STI or unintended pregnancy. So, it’s important to always use protection, have a conversation about sexual history with your partner, and get tested regularly. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry!.

Attitude #2: Lack of Communication

Another attitude that men should avoid when it comes to safe and healthy sex is a lack of communication.

Communication is key when it comes to sexual health, and having an open and honest conversation with your sexual partner can help both of you stay protected. However, many men feel uncomfortable or embarrassed to talk about sex, which can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications.

The lack of conversation can also lead to assumptions and expectations that may not be met, causing disappointment, shame or guilt, anxiety, and misunderstandings.

For instance, one or both partners may assume they have the same sexual preferences, desires, or orientations, but this may not be true, leading to unfulfilled expectations and poor sexual experiences for one or both parties. It can also lead to conflicts over boundaries, consent, and risk-taking, which can put one or both partners in uncomfortable or dangerous situations.

Therefore, it’s essential to have a conversation with your sexual partner about your sexual preferences, desires, boundaries, and expectations.

This can include talking about your use of protection, sexual history, any concerns or doubts you may have, and the possibility of getting tested together. When both of you are on the same page, it can make for a more pleasurable and safer sexual experience.

Attitude #3: Toxic Masculinity

Finally, men should avoid the attitude of toxic masculinity when it comes to safe and healthy sex. Toxic masculinity refers to harmful and sexist beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that are associated with traditional notions of masculinity.

These can include:.

Believing that men should always be “in control” during sex, which can lead to coercive or abusive behavior
Thinking that men should be “dominant” or aggressive during sex, which can be intimidating or traumatizing for their sexual partners
Feeling like it’s not “manly” to wear protection or get tested for STIs

All of these beliefs can perpetuate unhealthy and unsafe sexual practices. When men feel the need to be dominant or in control, it can lead to coercive or non-consensual sex, which is never acceptable.

Similarly, when men feel like they have to be “tough” and not wear protection or get tested, they are putting themselves at risk for STIs or unintended pregnancies. It’s important to understand that these harmful beliefs are not part of healthy masculinity, and they are not beneficial to either the individual or their partners!.

Conclusion

When it comes to safe and healthy sex, men should strive to avoid overconfidence, a lack of communication, and toxic masculinity.

Each of these attitudes can lead to irresponsible and unhealthy sexual practices, which can have serious consequences for the individual and their partners. Instead, men should focus on being responsible, communicative, and respectful during sexual encounters. This can help create a healthier, safer, and more pleasurable sexual experience for everyone involved.