Healthier Scotland. Scottish Government

Enjoying sex

Body and mind

Whether we get turned on or not, whether we feel happy after sex or have regrets, it's as much about what happens in our minds as what happens with our bodies.

Sex should always be enjoyable. For that to happen, both people need to feel comfortable about what's happening, to trust each other and to feel respected.

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Respect

A healthy respect for sex means respecting each other's wishes and looking after each other's health.

If we can do that, nobody should have any regrets after sex.

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Communication

The best way to get to know each other and to find out what you want and what they want is to talk to each other.

Good communication between partners can help improve sex, but is also essential when it comes to important discussions like talking about using protection, about getting tested or about getting pregnant.

Find tips on how you can talk and listen well in our section on good communication.

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Explore

One of the joys of relationships is in exploring each other's desires and bodies. Talking about and trying different things helps keep sex fresh and exciting.

It's always a good idea to talk about trying new stuff first – many an embarrassing moment can be avoided that way! It'll help you both feel comfortable and could also prove to be a major turn-on for you both.

While you explore new activities with your partner, you should always practise safe sex. Find out what the risks are and how to reduce them in our A-Z of safer, better sex.

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