After a passionate encounter between the sheets, it’s important to take care of yourself and your partner. While there are plenty of things you can do to enhance post-coital bliss, there are also certain activities you should avoid.

In this guide, we’ll explore 10 things you should never do after sex to ensure a pleasurable and healthy experience.

1. Don’t Skip Bathroom Breaks

One of the first things you should do after sex is to take a trip to the bathroom. Urinating helps flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections.

Both partners should make it a habit to visit the bathroom shortly after sex.

2. Avoid Using Harsh Soaps

While it’s essential to maintain proper hygiene, using harsh soaps or cleansers on your genital area after sex can disrupt the natural pH balance. Opt for gentle and fragrance-free cleansers to prevent irritation or infections.

3. Say No to Douching

Douching, which involves rinsing the vagina with a mixture of water and other fluids, can disrupt the delicate balance of natural bacteria in the vagina. The vagina is self-cleaning and doesn’t require douching.

It’s best to avoid this practice altogether.

4. Don’t Rush to Get Dressed

Allow your body to cool down and regain its composure after sex before getting dressed. Excessive sweating during intercourse can make your body uncomfortable, and rushing to put on clothes can trap moisture, leading to bacterial growth or irritation.

5. Avoid Heavy Meals

While a light snack can be invigorating after sex, indulging in a heavy meal right after can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable. It’s best to wait for at least an hour before having a proper meal.

This allows your body to recover and digest food more comfortably.

6. Don’t Neglect Hydration

Keep a glass of water nearby and make sure to stay hydrated after sex. Sexual activity can be physically exerting, especially if it’s intense or lasts for an extended period.

Replenishing fluids and staying hydrated is essential for your overall well-being.

7. Refrain from Strenuous Activities

While exercise is generally good for you, engaging in strenuous activities immediately after sex can put unnecessary strain on your body.

Allow yourself some downtime to relax and recover before jumping into intense workouts or physically demanding tasks.

8. Avoid Neglecting Foreplay

Post-sex doesn’t mean the intimacy has to end. Engaging in post-coital affection, cuddling, or even extending foreplay can deepen the connection between partners and prolong the feelings of intimacy after sex.

9. Don’t Ignore Personal Hygiene

Though it may seem obvious, it’s worth mentioning that good personal hygiene should always be a priority. Regular showers, clean bedsheets, and maintaining cleanliness in general help promote a healthy and comfortable post-sex experience.

10. Say No to Negative Self-Talk

Intimacy can make people feel vulnerable, and negative self-talk might creep in after sex. Avoid indulging in self-criticism or negative thoughts about your performance or body. Embrace the afterglow and focus on the positive aspects of your experience.