Sex should be fun, exciting, and comfortable. When it comes to great sex, what you do before getting under the sheets is just as important as the act itself. In this guide, we break down the top things not to do before sex. Mistakes that could affect your health, ruin the mood, or even cause discomfort. These tips are backed by medical facts and social insight to help you prepare better, feel more confident, and enjoy the experience safely and fully.
1. Don’t Eat Heavy or Spicy Food
Why it matters (Medically): Heavy meals or spicy dishes can cause bloating, acid reflux, or even gas. None of which are sexy or comfortable. Your body diverts blood to digestion instead of arousal.
Why it matters (Socially): Feeling overly full or gassy can make you self-conscious, lowering your confidence during intimacy.
That plate of amala and ewedu might be tempting, but nothing kills the mood like stomach discomfort. If you must eat, go for something light like snacks.
2. Don’t Drink Too Much Alcohol
Why it matters (Medically): Alcohol may lower inhibitions, but too much of it can interfere with arousal, lubrication, and performance (including erectile dysfunction or delayed orgasm).
Why it matters (Socially): It can lead to awkward, less memorable sex or even regrets and consent issues.
📖 How alcohol affects your sex life
A little alcohol can help you relax and put you in the mood, but too much can numb your senses and make it harder to enjoy sex. For men, it can make getting hard difficult, and for women, it can reduce natural lubrication. Know your limit.
3. Don’t Forget to Pee
Why it matters (Medically): Peeing before sex helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially in women.
Why it matters (Socially): A sudden urge to pee mid-act can ruin the flow and pleasure.
A full bladder during sex is uncomfortable, and if you wait too long after, you might increase your chances of getting a UTI (urinary tract infection). Try to pee before and after sex to keep your bladder happy.
4. Don’t Shave or Wax Right Before Sex
Why it matters (Medically): Shaving or waxing can cause microtears or irritation in the skin, making it more prone to infections or painful friction during sex.
Why it matters (Socially): Redness, itchiness, or discomfort might take your mind off pleasure.
I know you want to be smooth for the night, but shaving or waxing right before sex can cause irritation, razor bumps, or even tiny cuts, which can make sex uncomfortable (or increase infection risk). Try shaving several hours before, or even the night before.
5. Don’t Brush Your Teeth Right Before Oral Sex
Why it matters (Medically): Brushing can cause tiny cuts in your gums, increasing your risk of STI transmission during oral sex.
Why it matters (Socially): Mouth irritation or bleeding is a mood killer.
Brushing your teeth too hard can cause tiny cuts in your gums, increasing the risk of infection during oral sex. If you want fresh breath, rinse with mouthwash or drink water instead.
6. Don’t Overthink It
Why it matters (Medically): Stress and anxiety can reduce libido, make it harder to get aroused, and lead to performance issues.
Why it matters (Socially): Sex should be fun and connective, not a pressure-filled event.
Nervous? Worried about performance? Overthinking can kill the mood. Instead of stressing, focus on enjoying the moment. Confidence is sexy, and when you are relaxed, the experience is so much better.
7. Don’t Overdo Perfume or Scented Products
Why it matters (Medically): Strong fragrances or scented lubricants can irritate sensitive genital areas and lead to allergic reactions or yeast infections.
Why it matters (Socially): Overpowering scents may be off-putting to your partner.
I know you want to smell irresistible with strong perfumes or scented lotions, but consider your partner who will be licking your neck and other parts of your body. Stick to mild, natural scents and focus on hygiene instead.
8. Don’t Assume They’re in the Mood
Why it matters (Medically and Socially): Consent is non-negotiable. Just because you’re ready doesn’t mean your partner is. Ignoring their mood can lead to emotional discomfort or even relationship tension.
Just because you’re horny doesn’t mean your partner is ready to go. Always check in with them, read the mood, and don’t forget that consent is key. A simple “Are you in the mood?” can save you from an awkward situation.
Good sex starts before the action even begins. Avoid these mistakes, take care of yourself, and set the mood right. When you feel good, sex feels even better.
What’s one mistake you’ve made before sex that you’ll never repeat? Let’s talk in the comments!
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