Condoms have become a big part of life today, but there are still many people that refuse to see the benefit these particular contraceptives bring to the marketplace. People that are against condoms for political or religious reasons tend to perpetuate myths about them. For that reason many people are confused through no fault of their own when it comes to considerations regarding this product. In order to help clear the air a little bit, here are some of the more common myths perpetuated about condoms.
Myth #1: They make sex less enjoyable
This used to be true when condoms first came out onto the market, but the free market being what it is, this was ratified by the condom creating companies when they realized that it was indeed something that was starting to impede their sales. There are now condoms that are ribbed to increase the sexual pleasure a woman can get out of the act as well as ones that are ribbed on the inside to provide that same stimulation for the man. There are flavored condoms that make oral sex a lot more interesting. There are in fact a multitude of different options available for condoms nowadays that really have turned this partial reality into a complete myth.
Myth #2: They do not work
This used to be the biggest myth that was perpetuated regarding condoms, but as the general public has become more knowledgeable regarding matters of contraception, this myth has really collapsed. For this reason, people against the use of condoms will usually resort to myth #1 before this one nowadays. Condoms are one of the most reliable products around and this statement has been continually backed up by facts on a regular basis. When used properly, condoms are usually over 99.9% effective on average. In other words, condoms are basically foolproof when they are employed as the instructions indicate. If condoms are combined with other birth control methods however, they are even more effective.
Myth #3: They are expensive
Expensive is a word that is really a matter of opinion and for this reason one can not entirely call this a myth. There are probably some people out there that would view the cost of condoms as one that is far too expensive. That having been said however, when the packages are purchased, the individual condoms within them usually work out to something like pennies per condom, with individual packages often being sold for something like twenty-five cents per package. For this reason, most people that have experience with the full range of contraceptives would regard condoms as being relatively cheap to purchase.
Conclusion
For all of the reasons stated above in the debunking of those three myths, it is quite clear to anyone that has experimented with different safe sex methods that the condom is one of the most reliable and most cost effective methods out there. This is why in spite of the development of other methods over the years, this particular method has endured for such a long time.
Showing posts with label safe sex. Show all posts
Showing posts with label safe sex. Show all posts
Tuesday, 10 February 2009
Monday, 9 February 2009
Condoms - The Successive Steps of AIDS Prevention
AIDS has long been a source of intense concern on the international scale, but as time has gone on there have been many advances both in sociological changes and in behavioural changes that have helped to neutralize this particular illness in many areas of the world. AIDS prevention is therefore a successful endeavour if done correctly and while more permanent and better AIDS prevention methods are being developed, it behoves us as a population to try and utilize the AIDS prevention methods we currently have in order to try and reduce the spread of this illness as much as possible. To that end, there are several steps that you can take in order to help the AIDS prevention cause.
The first and most obvious step in terms of AIDS prevention is to simply abstain from having sex altogether. This is of course an activity that few people have the ability to do, but there are some for which sex is really not that big a priority and those people can protect themselves to a larger degree by making sure they avoid sex whenever they can. Avoiding sex alone will not make you 100% immune to catching AIDS, but it will go a long way towards helping ensure that your AIDS prevention efforts are successful in some way, shape or form.
For people that are simply not going to be able to avoid sexual activity for one reason or another, a much more reasonable step to take might be to cut down on the number of sexual partners that you have. The number of times you have sex with a different person can drastically contribute to an increased chance of contracting AIDS and for that reason ensuring that you are in a monogamous relationship or at least taking measures to reduce the number of sexual partners you have can go a long way towards helping you cut down on your chances of contracting AIDS.
If you decide to cut down on the number of sexual partners you have however, you will need to do something else in order to help your AIDS prevention efforts along. A good idea would be to wander into the realm of contraceptives and start utilizing them as a way to augment your protection against the AIDS virus. Condoms, diaphragms or any other contraception method that prevents the mixing of fluids would be suitable if your main goal is AIDS prevention. There are other birth control methods on the market such as pills that are not effective for preventing STD transmission for the simple reason that they do nothing to prevent the mixing of fluids which is where all of these diseases come from in the first place.
Preventing the spread of AIDS is something that everyone should be interested in if for no other reason than to ensure a higher standard of living. Smart sex and safe sex rather than unprotected sex is such a small price to pay for something as important as preventing the spread of AIDS.
The first and most obvious step in terms of AIDS prevention is to simply abstain from having sex altogether. This is of course an activity that few people have the ability to do, but there are some for which sex is really not that big a priority and those people can protect themselves to a larger degree by making sure they avoid sex whenever they can. Avoiding sex alone will not make you 100% immune to catching AIDS, but it will go a long way towards helping ensure that your AIDS prevention efforts are successful in some way, shape or form.
For people that are simply not going to be able to avoid sexual activity for one reason or another, a much more reasonable step to take might be to cut down on the number of sexual partners that you have. The number of times you have sex with a different person can drastically contribute to an increased chance of contracting AIDS and for that reason ensuring that you are in a monogamous relationship or at least taking measures to reduce the number of sexual partners you have can go a long way towards helping you cut down on your chances of contracting AIDS.
If you decide to cut down on the number of sexual partners you have however, you will need to do something else in order to help your AIDS prevention efforts along. A good idea would be to wander into the realm of contraceptives and start utilizing them as a way to augment your protection against the AIDS virus. Condoms, diaphragms or any other contraception method that prevents the mixing of fluids would be suitable if your main goal is AIDS prevention. There are other birth control methods on the market such as pills that are not effective for preventing STD transmission for the simple reason that they do nothing to prevent the mixing of fluids which is where all of these diseases come from in the first place.
Preventing the spread of AIDS is something that everyone should be interested in if for no other reason than to ensure a higher standard of living. Smart sex and safe sex rather than unprotected sex is such a small price to pay for something as important as preventing the spread of AIDS.
Wednesday, 4 February 2009
Buying Condoms for Beginners
Most men reach that point, when their girlfriends look at them and tell them to make sure to have some condoms soon. It’s like an earth shattering moment, knowing that your relationship is about to fall into the next level, and you couldn’t be happier. Some guys are stoked and eager, ready to dominate while others are scared and confused wondering what to do or where to turn. If you are young during this time, you most likely will be lost. Buying your first package of condoms is scary, there are so many different brands and colors and even styles, what to do? You are faced Lifestyle condoms, Durex Condoms, and even Trojan Condoms among a ton of other brands. You’re probably wondering, what is the best condom to buy? Well, don’t panic, buying your first condoms however scary can be fun and there’s no need to feel as overwhelmed as some people may. Instead, relax, take it easy, and think about what it is that you need.
How to choose a condom that is right for you in the beginning may seem tough as well, but if you are just beginning, it’s best to stick to the basics. The basic choices you should most likely be thinking about are whether or not to buy lubricated condoms, and if you do use lubricated condoms then you need to decide whether to use the spermicidal lubrication or just get regular standard lubricated condoms. After doing a little research you should be able to decide which one you want to try, when in doubt grab one of each. You can never be too safe, buying a few will give you more options as well as more back-ups incase one rips, or you ejaculate more than once. Remember, every time you ejaculate, you need to use a new condom before continuing with another round.
On the same note, buying condoms should be done wisely. Many men feel they need to buy condoms in bulk or buy bulk condom sets when they shop for their first condoms. This is not only expensive, especially when buying the best brand of condoms, but it’s not necessarily your best bet. You should keep in mind that all condoms have expiration dates, and this means that if you aren’t sure you are going to use them all before that date buying condoms in bulk would be pointless.
The last concern I have found most beginners have is the other various options. After all, when you’re faced with colored and flavored condoms, and even textured condoms it can seem a little tricky. However, for your first time you will probably want to stick with something a little more generic, and as you become more comfortable with the use of condoms you can progressively move on to different variations and see what you like the best. So do your research, find a cost effective condom brand that you like and are comfortable with, and remember that safe sex is the best way to go.
How to choose a condom that is right for you in the beginning may seem tough as well, but if you are just beginning, it’s best to stick to the basics. The basic choices you should most likely be thinking about are whether or not to buy lubricated condoms, and if you do use lubricated condoms then you need to decide whether to use the spermicidal lubrication or just get regular standard lubricated condoms. After doing a little research you should be able to decide which one you want to try, when in doubt grab one of each. You can never be too safe, buying a few will give you more options as well as more back-ups incase one rips, or you ejaculate more than once. Remember, every time you ejaculate, you need to use a new condom before continuing with another round.
On the same note, buying condoms should be done wisely. Many men feel they need to buy condoms in bulk or buy bulk condom sets when they shop for their first condoms. This is not only expensive, especially when buying the best brand of condoms, but it’s not necessarily your best bet. You should keep in mind that all condoms have expiration dates, and this means that if you aren’t sure you are going to use them all before that date buying condoms in bulk would be pointless.
The last concern I have found most beginners have is the other various options. After all, when you’re faced with colored and flavored condoms, and even textured condoms it can seem a little tricky. However, for your first time you will probably want to stick with something a little more generic, and as you become more comfortable with the use of condoms you can progressively move on to different variations and see what you like the best. So do your research, find a cost effective condom brand that you like and are comfortable with, and remember that safe sex is the best way to go.
Monday, 2 February 2009
Condom Considerations
When you go out to buy condoms, chances are pretty good that you aren’t really thinking in basic consumer terms. When people buy computers, television, furniture or anything else for that matter, they usually think about the quality of the product and how it will fit into the rest of their lifestyle. In the case of a condom however, people that buy condoms are really just looking for a safe sex mechanism and aside from a few accessory choices, people that buy condoms are generally not looking to make a big and complicated decision regarding the condom that they purchase. There is nothing wrong with this way of thinking, but there are certainly some considerations that could be made in regards to the purchasing of a condom.
Length
The length of a condom is perhaps the most important consideration regarding the condom that could be made by anyone that wants to buy condoms. The reason for this is that the length of the condom has a very direct effect on how effective that condom actually is. If you end up buying condoms that do not roll down most of the shaft of your penis, what you will find is that there might be times when the volume of the ejaculate is so great that a tiny portion of it might spill out over the rim of the condom. Such happenings are rare, but why be sorry when you can be safe? Simply make sure that when you buy condoms the length is appropriate and you should have no problems whatsoever.
Width
Another consideration that you need to make when you buy condoms is their width. This issue is similar to the length issue and for that reason there is no reason to dwell on it any further than pointing out that when you buy condoms, make sure the length is appropriate enough that rolling the condom onto the penis will not be such a tight fit so as to cause pain or potentially a rupture within the condom itself. Both of those would be bad outcomes of the purchase.
Additional Options
Nowadays, condom companies are very diverse in the different products they put out onto the market. For example, there are ribbed condoms which have surfaces which are full of bumps so that the friction against the vaginal wall is increased and therefore the pleasure of the woman is increased along with it. There are other condom products are flavored condoms, used in order to make the oral sex experience a lot better for someone that is performing oral sex on a person that is wearing a condom. These are just two of a number of different options available with condoms these days and while these additional options are less pressing than the length and width concerns, they are certainly worth looking into in order to make the sexual experience as positive as possible. In the end, these options eliminate the myth about condoms making the sexual experience less pleasurable.
Length
The length of a condom is perhaps the most important consideration regarding the condom that could be made by anyone that wants to buy condoms. The reason for this is that the length of the condom has a very direct effect on how effective that condom actually is. If you end up buying condoms that do not roll down most of the shaft of your penis, what you will find is that there might be times when the volume of the ejaculate is so great that a tiny portion of it might spill out over the rim of the condom. Such happenings are rare, but why be sorry when you can be safe? Simply make sure that when you buy condoms the length is appropriate and you should have no problems whatsoever.
Width
Another consideration that you need to make when you buy condoms is their width. This issue is similar to the length issue and for that reason there is no reason to dwell on it any further than pointing out that when you buy condoms, make sure the length is appropriate enough that rolling the condom onto the penis will not be such a tight fit so as to cause pain or potentially a rupture within the condom itself. Both of those would be bad outcomes of the purchase.
Additional Options
Nowadays, condom companies are very diverse in the different products they put out onto the market. For example, there are ribbed condoms which have surfaces which are full of bumps so that the friction against the vaginal wall is increased and therefore the pleasure of the woman is increased along with it. There are other condom products are flavored condoms, used in order to make the oral sex experience a lot better for someone that is performing oral sex on a person that is wearing a condom. These are just two of a number of different options available with condoms these days and while these additional options are less pressing than the length and width concerns, they are certainly worth looking into in order to make the sexual experience as positive as possible. In the end, these options eliminate the myth about condoms making the sexual experience less pleasurable.
Sunday, 1 February 2009
Safe Sex Educational Sources
As sex has started to become a topic of discussion amongst progressively younger populations, there has been a lot of discussion recently regarding the sources of sex education. This is perfectly valid discussion material as questions regarding best condoms or where to get the best condoms might be questions that would be answered differently by a health scientist and a person that is against the idea of utilizing any kind of birth control even if they are the best condoms on the market. For this reason, people are starting to realize that sources do matter and for that reason here are some suggestions as to which sources might be good ones to consult insofar as the sexual education issue is concerned.
Teachers
Generally speaking, one would have to say that teachers are probably the best traditional source for good information about sex and sex education. Teachers do not have the same authoritarian view about sex that most parents by default have and in addition to that teachers can usually be relied upon to put their political views aside and recognize with a level of pragmatism that information regarding safe sex is essential for many teenagers in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy as well as the spread of disease. If teachers advise kids on buying the best condoms for example, it can be trusted that they do this out of experience or knowledge rather than any particular agenda. At the same time however, a teacher needs to have a trusting relationship with a student before this type of conversation can be had, which usually makes them a good, yet implausible source as most students do not have close relationships with their teachers at the high school level.
Parents
Parents have to be included in this list because of the fact that they are the primary caregivers to children regardless of how old those children happen to be. That having been said however, there are many circumstances where going to parents for advice on safe sex, where to get the best condoms or which birth control methods to use is not really something that can be done. This is because parents might be draconian in their measures, because they have a particular political viewpoint or because they follow a particular interpretation of a religious creed. All of these are reasons as to why getting safe sex information from parents might not be plausible, but there are still many circumstances in which they are the best source to go to for that type of information. If for no other reason, this is true because of the implicit trust that exists between parents and their children.
The Internet
One final source worth mentioning is the internet, but this source needs to be taken with a grain of salt. There are many fantastic websites on the internet that have high quality information regarding sex education, safe sex and the best condoms. However, there are many sites that have terrible information. The tone used in the discussion is usually a good indicator, but for the internet to be a useful source you need to be able to tell the good from the bad in terms of quality.
Teachers
Generally speaking, one would have to say that teachers are probably the best traditional source for good information about sex and sex education. Teachers do not have the same authoritarian view about sex that most parents by default have and in addition to that teachers can usually be relied upon to put their political views aside and recognize with a level of pragmatism that information regarding safe sex is essential for many teenagers in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy as well as the spread of disease. If teachers advise kids on buying the best condoms for example, it can be trusted that they do this out of experience or knowledge rather than any particular agenda. At the same time however, a teacher needs to have a trusting relationship with a student before this type of conversation can be had, which usually makes them a good, yet implausible source as most students do not have close relationships with their teachers at the high school level.
Parents
Parents have to be included in this list because of the fact that they are the primary caregivers to children regardless of how old those children happen to be. That having been said however, there are many circumstances where going to parents for advice on safe sex, where to get the best condoms or which birth control methods to use is not really something that can be done. This is because parents might be draconian in their measures, because they have a particular political viewpoint or because they follow a particular interpretation of a religious creed. All of these are reasons as to why getting safe sex information from parents might not be plausible, but there are still many circumstances in which they are the best source to go to for that type of information. If for no other reason, this is true because of the implicit trust that exists between parents and their children.
The Internet
One final source worth mentioning is the internet, but this source needs to be taken with a grain of salt. There are many fantastic websites on the internet that have high quality information regarding sex education, safe sex and the best condoms. However, there are many sites that have terrible information. The tone used in the discussion is usually a good indicator, but for the internet to be a useful source you need to be able to tell the good from the bad in terms of quality.
Frequently Asked Questions about Condoms
Q: How effective are condoms ?
A: The answer to that question varies depending on the particular brand name and type of condom you are talking about. However, it is reasonable to state that all of the condoms that are worth using are more than 95% effective and that the vast majority of them are 99%+ effective. There is a vast myth going around at the current moment in time that this particular method of contraception is actually not that effective, but the truth of the matter is that condoms are one of the most reliable products around. That is why they are central to most of the contraception campaigns that are run within the political realm.
Q: Is it possible to wear condoms and still end up with problems?
A: Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. The reason for this has to do more with the way in which condoms work however than any particular design deficiency in a particular product. The basic goal of a condom is to catch all of the ejaculate before it can enter the woman’s vaginal cavity while at the same time shielding the penis from becoming covered in any of the woman’s sexual fluid. The dual purpose of the prevention of fluid mixing in this case is to a) prevent pregnancy and b) prevent the transmission of any diseases. Since the sex cells of both men and women are microscopic however, it is possible for one to penetrate the condom either way and in doing so potentially cause a problem. This is why most condoms companies state that their products are 99.9% effective, since the odd event can happen otherwise.
Q: Is there anyway to make sure that condoms can be effective 100% of the time?
A: In practical terms, the answer to the question is yes. If you combine the use of condoms with other methods of contraception (such as birth control pills, a diaphragm or both a male and female condom being used at once), you will significantly decrease the chance that anything will happen as a result of the sex. While condoms are nearly perfect on their own, combining birth control methods can make it all but impossible for something to happen during sex. For legal reasons, companies that manufacture contraceptives will still state that their products are only effective 99.9% of the time, but it is extremely unlikely that something could happen when two or more contraception methods are in play at once.
Q: Is there any particular brand of condom I should purchase?
A: Ultimately, this is a private matter that you need to decide on your own. There are statistics available regarding different companies and the success of their condom products, but in the end all of the reputable companies put products out on the market that are extremely good. That having been said however, whether the condoms you choose are Trojan, Durex, Lifestyles or another brand of condoms, there are differences in terms of flavour, accessories and material, which is why you need to make a preferential decision on your own.
A: The answer to that question varies depending on the particular brand name and type of condom you are talking about. However, it is reasonable to state that all of the condoms that are worth using are more than 95% effective and that the vast majority of them are 99%+ effective. There is a vast myth going around at the current moment in time that this particular method of contraception is actually not that effective, but the truth of the matter is that condoms are one of the most reliable products around. That is why they are central to most of the contraception campaigns that are run within the political realm.
Q: Is it possible to wear condoms and still end up with problems?
A: Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. The reason for this has to do more with the way in which condoms work however than any particular design deficiency in a particular product. The basic goal of a condom is to catch all of the ejaculate before it can enter the woman’s vaginal cavity while at the same time shielding the penis from becoming covered in any of the woman’s sexual fluid. The dual purpose of the prevention of fluid mixing in this case is to a) prevent pregnancy and b) prevent the transmission of any diseases. Since the sex cells of both men and women are microscopic however, it is possible for one to penetrate the condom either way and in doing so potentially cause a problem. This is why most condoms companies state that their products are 99.9% effective, since the odd event can happen otherwise.
Q: Is there anyway to make sure that condoms can be effective 100% of the time?
A: In practical terms, the answer to the question is yes. If you combine the use of condoms with other methods of contraception (such as birth control pills, a diaphragm or both a male and female condom being used at once), you will significantly decrease the chance that anything will happen as a result of the sex. While condoms are nearly perfect on their own, combining birth control methods can make it all but impossible for something to happen during sex. For legal reasons, companies that manufacture contraceptives will still state that their products are only effective 99.9% of the time, but it is extremely unlikely that something could happen when two or more contraception methods are in play at once.
Q: Is there any particular brand of condom I should purchase?
A: Ultimately, this is a private matter that you need to decide on your own. There are statistics available regarding different companies and the success of their condom products, but in the end all of the reputable companies put products out on the market that are extremely good. That having been said however, whether the condoms you choose are Trojan, Durex, Lifestyles or another brand of condoms, there are differences in terms of flavour, accessories and material, which is why you need to make a preferential decision on your own.
Saturday, 31 January 2009
Relationships and Sex
The biggest areas of advice that men look for help in are actually not areas of advice that deal with contraceptives. Within the field of contraceptives, it is reasonably obvious that whether they know about contraceptives or not, men are going to keep that information to themselves and not solicit advice on the topic. That having been said however, the area of sex in general does get a lot of discussion amongst both men and women, far more than the specific area of contraceptives receives in relation to safe sex. The advice that people seek however is not about the use of contraceptives or safe sex, but rather about sex and timing. People want to know how much pressure can be put on the other partner to have sex or even when the timing might be right in order to try and initiate a sexual act. The answers to these questions are not easy, but if you start with some ground rules you should be on safe ground when it comes to having sex with your partner.
Always be Prepared
The single most important piece of advice that anyone can give you when it comes to relationships and sex is that you should always make sure that you are prepared for sex one way or another. Condoms should always be available in your house when your partner is over so that if sex does happen, you will be ready for it. If you do not have any contraceptives available and sex does happen, you run the risk of unwanted pregnancy or illness, both of which can be effective at derailing any future attempts at sex that you or your partner might attempt to initiate. For this reason, always being prepared with some contraceptives so that any sex you have is safe sex is always the best piece of advice that you can get.
Read your Partner’s Feelings
The next thing you need to do when it comes to sex is read your partner’s feelings. Regardless of whether you have contraceptives or not, the sexual act is one that needs to be wanted by both partners in order for it to be truly fulfilling. It is legitimate to a certain extent to be a little pushy when it comes to initiating sex with a partner, as there are nerves that come into play that can quickly be dispelled by actually engaging in the act of sex. That having been said however, there is a big difference between nervousness and a genuine lack of interest in having sex at that point and as a loving partner, it will be your job to ensure that you are able to understand this difference within your partner. When in doubt, err on the side of not having sex just to be safe, just as you would be purchasing and keeping condoms around just in case.
Conclusion
When it comes to relationships and sex it is always better to be safe than sorry. This is analogous to the use of contraceptives during sex as contraceptives help promote the idea of safe sex. If you keep this in mind, you’ll be fine in your sexual endeavors.
Always be Prepared
The single most important piece of advice that anyone can give you when it comes to relationships and sex is that you should always make sure that you are prepared for sex one way or another. Condoms should always be available in your house when your partner is over so that if sex does happen, you will be ready for it. If you do not have any contraceptives available and sex does happen, you run the risk of unwanted pregnancy or illness, both of which can be effective at derailing any future attempts at sex that you or your partner might attempt to initiate. For this reason, always being prepared with some contraceptives so that any sex you have is safe sex is always the best piece of advice that you can get.
Read your Partner’s Feelings
The next thing you need to do when it comes to sex is read your partner’s feelings. Regardless of whether you have contraceptives or not, the sexual act is one that needs to be wanted by both partners in order for it to be truly fulfilling. It is legitimate to a certain extent to be a little pushy when it comes to initiating sex with a partner, as there are nerves that come into play that can quickly be dispelled by actually engaging in the act of sex. That having been said however, there is a big difference between nervousness and a genuine lack of interest in having sex at that point and as a loving partner, it will be your job to ensure that you are able to understand this difference within your partner. When in doubt, err on the side of not having sex just to be safe, just as you would be purchasing and keeping condoms around just in case.
Conclusion
When it comes to relationships and sex it is always better to be safe than sorry. This is analogous to the use of contraceptives during sex as contraceptives help promote the idea of safe sex. If you keep this in mind, you’ll be fine in your sexual endeavors.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Safe Sex Methods, Part II
Method #3: Withdrawal
The withdrawal method was perhaps the first real birth control or safe sex method to be developed as part of the sex education curriculum and the reason for this is a very simple one. The withdrawal birth control method is really the only one that does not utilize anything else in a material sense and for that reason it is quite easy for different couples to utilize this method for their birth control needs. The withdrawal method is simply a method that has the man pull out of the woman before orgasm and in doing so prevent the sharing of fluids that is where the problems can start both in terms of unwanted pregnancy and in terms of sexually transmitted disease. This method is a cheap and effective one if used properly, but it does require discipline on the part of the man to pull out before any ejaculation occurs. For this reason, many people prefer the other methods available. That having been said however, withdrawal is a foolproof safe sex practice if two people with discipline practice it whenever they happen to engage in sexual activity.
Method #4: Male Condoms
Perhaps the most popular birth control method currently available on the market is the male condom. It was the first one to be created on a manufacturing basis and ever since its creation, birth control has become a big part of the safe sex curriculum as tools have become available that have the ability to actually help in curbing the exchange of fluids that is the main causal element in disease transmission and pregnancy. A male condom is essentially a sheath that is placed over the man’s penis before penetration occurs. The man can ejaculate while still penetrating the woman and all of the fluid will be contained within the condom rather than spread out into the woman’s vagina. It is a simple principle yet one that has been effective enough for condoms to be utilized all over the world in campaigns to help stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases as well as to stop unwanted pregnancy from happening. Male condoms are disposable after a single use however and over time can end up getting expensive if the couple has sex often.
Method #5: Female Condoms
Hot on the heels of the release of the first male condom was the release of the first female condom. Female condoms function in the same way as male condoms do essentially, but are created with the female anatomy in mind. This particular birth control method, rather than forming a sheath around the man’s penis, instead forms a protective barrier around the interior of the woman’s vagina. In doing so, it prevents any sperm from entering into the vagina and potentially causing any harm. Both female condoms and male condoms are 99%+ effective on their own but when the two are combined, the end result is that a practically foolproof birth control method is created. The price concern with male condoms is also present with female condoms however, which is probably the main drawback to this particular method.
The withdrawal method was perhaps the first real birth control or safe sex method to be developed as part of the sex education curriculum and the reason for this is a very simple one. The withdrawal birth control method is really the only one that does not utilize anything else in a material sense and for that reason it is quite easy for different couples to utilize this method for their birth control needs. The withdrawal method is simply a method that has the man pull out of the woman before orgasm and in doing so prevent the sharing of fluids that is where the problems can start both in terms of unwanted pregnancy and in terms of sexually transmitted disease. This method is a cheap and effective one if used properly, but it does require discipline on the part of the man to pull out before any ejaculation occurs. For this reason, many people prefer the other methods available. That having been said however, withdrawal is a foolproof safe sex practice if two people with discipline practice it whenever they happen to engage in sexual activity.
Method #4: Male Condoms
Perhaps the most popular birth control method currently available on the market is the male condom. It was the first one to be created on a manufacturing basis and ever since its creation, birth control has become a big part of the safe sex curriculum as tools have become available that have the ability to actually help in curbing the exchange of fluids that is the main causal element in disease transmission and pregnancy. A male condom is essentially a sheath that is placed over the man’s penis before penetration occurs. The man can ejaculate while still penetrating the woman and all of the fluid will be contained within the condom rather than spread out into the woman’s vagina. It is a simple principle yet one that has been effective enough for condoms to be utilized all over the world in campaigns to help stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases as well as to stop unwanted pregnancy from happening. Male condoms are disposable after a single use however and over time can end up getting expensive if the couple has sex often.
Method #5: Female Condoms
Hot on the heels of the release of the first male condom was the release of the first female condom. Female condoms function in the same way as male condoms do essentially, but are created with the female anatomy in mind. This particular birth control method, rather than forming a sheath around the man’s penis, instead forms a protective barrier around the interior of the woman’s vagina. In doing so, it prevents any sperm from entering into the vagina and potentially causing any harm. Both female condoms and male condoms are 99%+ effective on their own but when the two are combined, the end result is that a practically foolproof birth control method is created. The price concern with male condoms is also present with female condoms however, which is probably the main drawback to this particular method.
Sunday, 25 January 2009
Safe Sex Methods Part 1
Introduction
Sexual exploration and sexual activity are starting to become more prevalent in younger ages in the current generation. With the oversexed society that we live in today, the simple truth of the matter is that teenagers are going to be exposed to sex at younger ages and for that reason plans need to be made for when teenagers inevitably decide to have sex one way or the other and whether to use condoms or not. There are many plans that can be put in place either for prevention or for dealing with sex and one of those plans is known as the safe sex approach. The safe sex approach is built around a number of different potential methods that can be used and for that reason it has really become the most popular method for sex education in the world today. With multiple methods to choose from, each person can pick the one that they feel would be best for them in their current life situation.
Method #1: Abstinence
One of the most controversial methods of safe sex that is utilized today is simply the method of abstinence. This is not really a safe sex method when you consider that the basic premise of this method is to avoid sex until a point in time where the consequences or potential consequences can be dealt with appropriately, but at the same time it needs to be discussed in any safe sex discussion for the simple reason that abstinence remains the most taught method around as far as sex education is concerned. The argument made by proponents of this method is that abstinence is the only sure fire method for birth control and to avoid sexually transmitted diseases. This is technically true since sex is avoided entirely and with other methods a 100% success rate is a theoretical impossibility, but studies have shown repeatedly that for practical terms, there are many other safe sex methods that are just as good as abstinence that allow teenagers to explore their natural sexual impulses.
Method #2: Monogamy
When teenagers are engaging in sexual relations, there is the impulse on the part of many teenagers to attempt to do this with more than one partner at the same time. Why this impulse exists is a question for sociologists to tackle, but scientists can already show with startling clarity that multiple sexual relationships at once increases the chance for a negative side effect such as a sexually transmitted disease. AIDS in particular is a disease that has been shown to have logarithmic increases in the transmission as the number of sexual partners gets larger. For this reason, one reasonably smart alternative to abstinence is monogamy. Monogamy means having just one sexual partner at a time and it is the foundation for the deeper and more meaningful relationships that tend to develop around sex as well. While it too is not really a safe sex method in the modern sense of the word, it is nonetheless taught as such in most of the sex education classes that do not deal with abstinence.
Friday, 16 January 2009
Is HIV / AIDS Overfunded ?
Just like we all instantly know the pink ribbon is the symbol for the fight against breast cancer, we automatically think of the global fight against AIDS when we see the red ribbon on lapels, hanging from buildings and on the bottom corner of AIDS/HIV campaign posters. Countries and organizations funnel millions upon millions of dollars a year into the fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic which currently afflicts approximately 33 million people around the globe. In fact, according to data provided by the Global Health Council, about 80% of America’s aid earmarked for population issues and health issues goes towards the fight against AIDS. Now, what some researchers, scientists and politicians are asking is whether too much aid is being provided for this one global disease. Especially when the disease can be prevented 99.9% of the time by simply wearing condoms.
Researchers and critics have begun asking this question as they worry that AIDS is sucking money away from other pressing, but less publicly exposed, health issues around the world. With the exclusion of Africa, AIDS/HIV has become a manageable disease as some experts point out. One critic of the money being spent for AIDS/HIV is Jeremy Shiffman from Syracuse University whose studies focus on health spending, “AIDS is a terrible humanitarian tragedy, but it's just one of many terrible humanitarian tragedies.” Even more vocal on the subject is Roger England from the Health Systems Workshop. England is calling for UNAIDS to be disbanded and states, “The global HIV industry is too big and out of control. We have created a monster with too many vested interests and reputations at stake... too many relatively well paid HIV staff in affected countries, and too many rock stars with AIDS support as a fashion accessory."
Responding to England’s statements is Paul de Lay from UNAIDS, “We have an epidemic that has caused between 55 million and 60 million infections. To suddenly pull the rug out from underneath that would be disastrous." De Lay insists that while it may appear the epidemic has been managed with drugs and multiple HIV campaigns around the world, this line of thinking could not be further from the truth. England feels that the annual budget of $200 million for UNAIDS would be better suited to address more pressing health issues like pneumonia which claims more children’s lives each year than AIDS, measles and malaria altogether. England states, "By putting more money into AIDS, we are implicitly saying it's OK for more kids to die of pneumonia."
Many critics also cite the fact that health and financial resources often get misallocated. One example is demonstrated in the country of Rwanda where, in 2006, close to $50 million was allocated for the fight against HIV/AIDS, $18 million was allocated to the fight against malaria (the number one killer in Rwanda) and only $1 million was allocated to fight various childhood diseases. Activists and researchers for health issues other than AIDS fight to get any financial resources but often have a hard time drawing attention away from the popular AIDS/HIV global battle. John Oldfield from Water Advocates (an agency that campaigns for clean sanitation and water) states, “Diarrhea kills five times as many kids as AIDS. Everybody talks about AIDS at cocktail parties. But nobody wants to hear about diarrhea." With a recession currently in place, the focus of correctly allocating money for various health issues is even more pressing. States Shiffman, “I do not want to see the cause of AIDS harmed. For AIDS to crowd out other issues is ethically unjust." More money should be spent on the prevention of HIV/AIDS through safe sex education and promoting the use of condoms.
Researchers and critics have begun asking this question as they worry that AIDS is sucking money away from other pressing, but less publicly exposed, health issues around the world. With the exclusion of Africa, AIDS/HIV has become a manageable disease as some experts point out. One critic of the money being spent for AIDS/HIV is Jeremy Shiffman from Syracuse University whose studies focus on health spending, “AIDS is a terrible humanitarian tragedy, but it's just one of many terrible humanitarian tragedies.” Even more vocal on the subject is Roger England from the Health Systems Workshop. England is calling for UNAIDS to be disbanded and states, “The global HIV industry is too big and out of control. We have created a monster with too many vested interests and reputations at stake... too many relatively well paid HIV staff in affected countries, and too many rock stars with AIDS support as a fashion accessory."
Responding to England’s statements is Paul de Lay from UNAIDS, “We have an epidemic that has caused between 55 million and 60 million infections. To suddenly pull the rug out from underneath that would be disastrous." De Lay insists that while it may appear the epidemic has been managed with drugs and multiple HIV campaigns around the world, this line of thinking could not be further from the truth. England feels that the annual budget of $200 million for UNAIDS would be better suited to address more pressing health issues like pneumonia which claims more children’s lives each year than AIDS, measles and malaria altogether. England states, "By putting more money into AIDS, we are implicitly saying it's OK for more kids to die of pneumonia."
Many critics also cite the fact that health and financial resources often get misallocated. One example is demonstrated in the country of Rwanda where, in 2006, close to $50 million was allocated for the fight against HIV/AIDS, $18 million was allocated to the fight against malaria (the number one killer in Rwanda) and only $1 million was allocated to fight various childhood diseases. Activists and researchers for health issues other than AIDS fight to get any financial resources but often have a hard time drawing attention away from the popular AIDS/HIV global battle. John Oldfield from Water Advocates (an agency that campaigns for clean sanitation and water) states, “Diarrhea kills five times as many kids as AIDS. Everybody talks about AIDS at cocktail parties. But nobody wants to hear about diarrhea." With a recession currently in place, the focus of correctly allocating money for various health issues is even more pressing. States Shiffman, “I do not want to see the cause of AIDS harmed. For AIDS to crowd out other issues is ethically unjust." More money should be spent on the prevention of HIV/AIDS through safe sex education and promoting the use of condoms.
Friday, 19 December 2008
How do you buy condoms without getting embarrassed?
How do you buy condoms without getting embarrassed?
You are about to have sex for the very first time in your life. And you are planning to have sex the safe way. Now comes the nervous part. How do you buy some condoms? Where do you buy condoms ? What if the sales clerk is a lady? What if there are some familiar faces in the check out line? What type of condom should you get?
Decide what type of condoms you need to get. If it is your very first time, you may get any type of generic condoms available in the store. As you get used to condoms then you can decide on the type of condoms as well as lubricants used in them. You may choose spermicidal or non-spermicidal condoms.
Never show any embarrassment on your face. Get the condom as if you have been doing it all your life; approach the check out counter confidently. If you purchase some thing else along with the condom, others who are standing with you may not notice the condoms. If you solely have condoms to be paid, it will be obvious to any one who is standing next to the check out counter. So think of some items, which you need to buy in the near future.
If there is any self check out counter in the store, they would be the best for you. This way you can pay for your condoms anonymously.
Now there are online stores, which can keep your identity hidden from the eyes and ears of your neighbors and gossipmongers. You will be able to get a much better price and a larger selection of condoms at any online stores.
Condom dispensers at public toilets can be used to protect your anonymity.
Large condoms are not always the best for you. They may slide off your penis easily and may not provide sufficient protection. As condoms can stretch over even the largest penises, size of the condom is really a non-issue. If you have a small penis then you may need small condoms.
Extra ribbed condoms or studded condoms can add some fun in to the sex. But some people do not like this. You will have to experiment and figure out for yourself which condom is right for your likes and dislikes.
The sales clerk has too many things to worry about. They will never bother to see if you are going to have sex tonight. He/she might be thinking about his/her own plans for the evening to worry about your condoms.
Choose the right lubricants to go with the condom. Oil based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and hence should not be used with them. Always choose water-based lubricants to go with latex condoms.
Spermicidal or flavored condoms can cause allergies in some people. If you feel any sort of irritation while using them, then change to condoms without those additives.
Many convenience stores and drug stores store condoms behind the counter as they can be stolen easily. All you need to do is go to the counter and ask the cashier for it. As you are being responsible by planning to engage in safe sex, there is nothing to be ashamed about it. The cashier and other people in the neighborhood are not going to be judgmental about it.
You are about to have sex for the very first time in your life. And you are planning to have sex the safe way. Now comes the nervous part. How do you buy some condoms? Where do you buy condoms ? What if the sales clerk is a lady? What if there are some familiar faces in the check out line? What type of condom should you get?
Decide what type of condoms you need to get. If it is your very first time, you may get any type of generic condoms available in the store. As you get used to condoms then you can decide on the type of condoms as well as lubricants used in them. You may choose spermicidal or non-spermicidal condoms.
Never show any embarrassment on your face. Get the condom as if you have been doing it all your life; approach the check out counter confidently. If you purchase some thing else along with the condom, others who are standing with you may not notice the condoms. If you solely have condoms to be paid, it will be obvious to any one who is standing next to the check out counter. So think of some items, which you need to buy in the near future.
If there is any self check out counter in the store, they would be the best for you. This way you can pay for your condoms anonymously.
Now there are online stores, which can keep your identity hidden from the eyes and ears of your neighbors and gossipmongers. You will be able to get a much better price and a larger selection of condoms at any online stores.
Condom dispensers at public toilets can be used to protect your anonymity.
Large condoms are not always the best for you. They may slide off your penis easily and may not provide sufficient protection. As condoms can stretch over even the largest penises, size of the condom is really a non-issue. If you have a small penis then you may need small condoms.
Extra ribbed condoms or studded condoms can add some fun in to the sex. But some people do not like this. You will have to experiment and figure out for yourself which condom is right for your likes and dislikes.
The sales clerk has too many things to worry about. They will never bother to see if you are going to have sex tonight. He/she might be thinking about his/her own plans for the evening to worry about your condoms.
Choose the right lubricants to go with the condom. Oil based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and hence should not be used with them. Always choose water-based lubricants to go with latex condoms.
Spermicidal or flavored condoms can cause allergies in some people. If you feel any sort of irritation while using them, then change to condoms without those additives.
Many convenience stores and drug stores store condoms behind the counter as they can be stolen easily. All you need to do is go to the counter and ask the cashier for it. As you are being responsible by planning to engage in safe sex, there is nothing to be ashamed about it. The cashier and other people in the neighborhood are not going to be judgmental about it.
Thursday, 18 December 2008
Should schools provide condoms for kids ?
Even in the 21st century, it is a controversial topic in many states of America. Most people associate condoms with sexual activity. There is nothing wrong with that. Condoms are associated with sex. The problems for condoms start when people associate condoms with promiscuity. This is especially true in the case of evangelical people who are totally against condoms or sex education for kids. They argue that condoms are going to give the kids new ideas. They fear that the kids may start to experiment with condoms and sex as they have access to it. But kids are kids. They are going to experiment with sex. Condom or no condom!! The increase in numbers of STDs among teenage girls is an example of sexual activity they engage in, even without easy access to condoms. The high rate of teenage pregnancy is also showing examples of sexually active kids. There number is not going to increase, as they will have easy access to condoms. These kids should have access to condoms and that would help them in protecting themselves and the society at large by stopping the spread of AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. It is not fair to deny them access to condoms.
Condoms must be easily available for teenage kids. If possible, sex education can be provided along with the delivery of condoms. The person who is delivering the condoms can explain the pros and cons of condoms, sex etc to the kids. The school nurse who is already present in most schools can be given this responsibility. There must be access to condoms in a different way as well. As kids are usually wary of approaching an adult to get condoms, there should be a condom machine in each school for kids to get condoms anonymously.
The easy access of condoms would reduce the rate of AIDS infection in USA. Teenagers and young adults are the ones who are getting infected in half of the new AIDS cases reported. If they get easy access to condoms at teenage years, then they will have safe sex. Two of the main reasons for kids to drop out of school are teenage pregnancy and poor health. You can avoid teenage pregnancy fully with condoms. Poor health caused from STDs can be avoided with the help of condoms to a very high extent.
There are still people who hold morality above the health or safety of kids. This issue should be considered on its merits as a public health issue. Not a moral challenge. Safe sex is just that. Safe sex. Nothing more. Nothing less.
Public schools must be providing condoms in their premises, as school drop out rate is highest there. Kids from low-income families who attend these schools are more prone to get pregnant and stop their studies altogether. Hence the availability of condoms is mandatory in public schools all over America.
Of course catholic schools are going to object to providing condoms to kids there. But the parents need to take a strong position and this would make the catholic school managements to change their position on condoms.
Condoms must be easily available for teenage kids. If possible, sex education can be provided along with the delivery of condoms. The person who is delivering the condoms can explain the pros and cons of condoms, sex etc to the kids. The school nurse who is already present in most schools can be given this responsibility. There must be access to condoms in a different way as well. As kids are usually wary of approaching an adult to get condoms, there should be a condom machine in each school for kids to get condoms anonymously.
The easy access of condoms would reduce the rate of AIDS infection in USA. Teenagers and young adults are the ones who are getting infected in half of the new AIDS cases reported. If they get easy access to condoms at teenage years, then they will have safe sex. Two of the main reasons for kids to drop out of school are teenage pregnancy and poor health. You can avoid teenage pregnancy fully with condoms. Poor health caused from STDs can be avoided with the help of condoms to a very high extent.
There are still people who hold morality above the health or safety of kids. This issue should be considered on its merits as a public health issue. Not a moral challenge. Safe sex is just that. Safe sex. Nothing more. Nothing less.
Public schools must be providing condoms in their premises, as school drop out rate is highest there. Kids from low-income families who attend these schools are more prone to get pregnant and stop their studies altogether. Hence the availability of condoms is mandatory in public schools all over America.
Of course catholic schools are going to object to providing condoms to kids there. But the parents need to take a strong position and this would make the catholic school managements to change their position on condoms.
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