Music festivals have been a rite of passage for just about every generation. You can indulge your senses and tune out everyday stresses. That’s why they are such a great place to explore your sexuality.
Although it’s easy to get swept up in all the spontaneity and hedonism (as you should!), it’s important to also take a level-headed approach, remembering that there are heightened risks at music festivals, too. I recommend striking a balance between keeping it fun and keeping it safe.
Here are my top tips:
People are often under the influence of drugs and alcohol at festivals, which can impair their ability to consent to a sexual experience. That’s why it’s important to get clear signs that they want to have sex with you. Remember: if they are unconscious, super high, or wasted, they can’t give consent.
After taking drugs or alcohol, you may lose your inhibitions and get caught up in an experience that you later regret. In this case, I would suggest listening to your gut. A “yes” attitude at festivals may mislead you into thinking you’re ready for something that you’re not. It’s okay to not be ready. You are not a prude for taking things slow! If you feel like you just want to kiss that new cutie whose tent you came back to, listen to that feeling.
It may also be helpful to involve your friends in your decision-making process. Let them know if you’re going to hook up with someone. If you feel unsure, ask them if they think it’s a good idea. It’s always wise to get a second opinion from people who care about you.
Using condoms can reduce the risk of pregnancy and some STIs, so be sure to always carry them with you. You don’t want to find yourself in a steamy situation without protection. The chance of you stopping in the heat of the moment to go and find condoms is slim, so do future you a favor and be prepared.
Before you have sex, I’d recommend using sex wipes on your genitals and hand sanitizer, followed by a water rinse on your hands. This can freshen things up and help reduce the risk of infections, like UTIs, thrush, and bacterial vaginosis, that can come from playing with unclean fingers or hands.
Alternatively, I’d suggest making a cheeky stop at the bathrooms before anything starts, so you can both give your hands a good wash with soap and your genitals a rinse with tap water.
Your hydration levels may be down at a festival, and enduring dry, painful sex isn’t worth it, especially when you can apply lube for an instant fix. I’d suggest something like my Posmo Silicone Lube. I created it to be super long-lasting, so you don’t have to reapply multiple times. It reduces the risk of micro-tears and post-sex pain.
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Laura Miano is an acclaimed sex therapist based in Melbourne and the founder of sex toy concept store Posmo. To learn more about her work, you can find her on instagram @lauramianosexology.
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