When it comes to sex and matters related to our sex life, we rarely relax to talk and ask openly. Or, if we do, we usually don’t share with the right person – our sexual partner or a doctor – but with a friend who can’t give us answers. Moreover, the friends we share with most likely have similar questions. Many of us don’t even talk about sex with our partner. And what are the questions we are afraid to ask? 1. Do you practice safe sex? In fact, this is an extremely important question, as we have no way of knowing what our partner’s intimate life was like before us. And the essential part of asking is not to find out the number, but whether he/she uses protective equipment. This is of utmost importance, as serious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis are sexually transmitted. It is very important that we also do not give in and allow ourselves to be caught off guard during intercourse, even more so when alcohol is involved, which often lowers our vigilance. 2. Is it normal for sexual desire to decrease when we are married? Many married couples ask themselves this question. In fact, it’s normal for our desire for sex to wane as we age, regardless of whether we’re married or single. Scientists explain that half of couples do not have sex after the age of 65. They also add that the frequency of sex in a relationship is an important factor in a healthy marriage. Studies in the field indicate that married couples have more sex than singles. But in both groups, sexual desire declines with age. Studies show that 70-year-old married couples still have sex about 16 times a year, while their single peers average 10 times a year. 3. Why does penetration hurt? If you feel uncomfortable during intercourse, you are not alone: ​​nearly 30% of women report that they experienced pain the last time they had sex. And although this question is not often put before the doctor, it should be shared, because in 10% of women this pain turns out to be chronic. For some women, pain during intercourse occurs every time, while for others it comes suddenly, for no apparent reason. If the penetration is painful, especially if there is also bleeding, we should consult a gynecologist or urologist as soon as possible. This discomfort can be caused by a number of factors such as vaginal dryness, bacterial infection, inflammation of the urethra or thinning of the vaginal walls. NEWS_MORE_BOX 4. Can I have sex while pregnant? For expectant mothers and fathers alike, intercourse is probably the last thing on their minds. Many parents-to-be worry about having sex during pregnancy, wondering if it’s safe for the baby, and the answer is a resounding yes. This period does not interfere with sex in any way. It’s another matter,if the pregnancy is problematic – then the matter should be raised with the doctor. One of the most common concerns in this regard is that intercourse can cause an abortion. If the mother and baby are healthy, there should be no concern. Another torment for expectant parents is that the man’s penis can touch the developing baby. But there is no cause for alarm, since the cervix effectively blocks the path to it, and therefore to the fetus. However, it is important to know that during sexual intercourse, air should not be allowed to “inject” into the vagina, this can lead to air embolism – the penetration of air into the venous system, which can be fatal both for the fetus and and for the mother. The risk also exists with oral sex. Anal sex should also be avoided, as it carries the risk of spreading bacteria from the anus to the vagina.