Sexual health is about more than preventing infections or unplanned pregnancies—it’s also about feeling empowered, confident, and safe while connecting with others. In Los Angeles County, where people from all walks of life are navigating relationships, it’s important to normalize open conversations about sexual health.

At Aviva Pharmacy, we encourage a proactive approach that combines pleasure with protection. Here’s how you can enjoy your sexual experiences without compromising your health—or your partner’s.

Step 1: Redefine What Sexual Health Means

Sexual health is more than STI tests or birth control. It’s about:

• Feeling physically and emotionally safe.

• Having open, respectful communication with partners.

• Protecting your body with tools like condoms, regular STI testing, and, when appropriate, medications like PrEP or PEP.

A positive sexual experience happens when you feel free to be yourself—without fear, shame, or health risks.

Step 2: Start the Conversation Early

One of the most powerful ways to protect yourself is to talk openly with your partner before becoming sexually active. This can feel awkward at first, but it shows maturity and care for both of you.

Here are a few ways to ease into it:

• Normalize it: “Hey, I’d like to talk about how we can keep each other healthy.”

• Ask about testing: “When was the last time you got tested for STIs?”

• Share first: “I got tested last month, and everything came back clear. How about you?”

• Discuss prevention tools: “Do you usually use condoms, or have you considered things like PrEP?”

Framing this as a two-way conversation creates a safer space where both partners can be honest and feel comfortable.

Step 3: Combine Pleasure With Protection

Protective steps shouldn’t take away from intimacy. In fact, they often enhance trust and connection.

Here’s how you can balance both:

• Condoms & lube: Using condoms with the right lubricant can reduce friction and discomfort, making sex safer and more enjoyable.

• Test regularly together: Turning testing into a shared responsibility can reduce stress and strengthen your bond.

• Explore other tools: For people at higher risk of HIV, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) offers extra peace of mind while maintaining intimacy.

• Embrace consent culture: Prioritizing enthusiastic, ongoing consent fosters a more satisfying and respectful connection.

Step 4: Know Your ResourcesLocal pharmacies like Aviva Pharmacy offer:

• Confidential STI and HIV testing (free or low-cost).

• Access to PrEP and PEP to reduce the risk of HIV.

• Condoms, dental dams, and other safe-sex products.

You don’t have to navigate this alone—healthcare providers, including our pharmacists, can answer your questions without judgment.

Step 5: Communicate About Boundaries and Preferences

Don’t skip the emotional safety conversation! Discuss boundaries, desires, and expectations early on. This creates a positive experience that feels safe, consensual, and enjoyable for both partners.

For example:

• “I’d like to take things slow.”

• “I’d feel more comfortable if we used condoms or discussed testing first.”

• “Are you open to talking about other ways to stay safe, like PrEP?”

Remember: Safety doesn’t kill the mood—uncertainty does.