Chlamydia is on the rise but there’s been no dramatic increases or decreases in the rate of other sexually transmitted diseases among Manitoba teens. Provincial health officials have released their latest report card on the sexual health of Manitoba teens.
Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Michael Routledge told 680 CJOB’s Dahlia Kurtz you also shouldn’t just talk about teens.
“The bottom line is if you’re talking about sexual health whether a teenager or adult, there are people who are practising sexual health behaviors that are not ideal for their health. While it’s good to have a conversations about teens, we can’t not talk about adults.”
Manitoba’s rate for teen pregnancy remains among the highest in the country. The highest rate of sexually transmitted infections is still found in the poorest areas.
Valentine’s Day is a very important day in the sexual calendar, a day when relationship wellness and wellbeing are celebrated, but when STDs are also at their highest risk. This is because people get swept up in the ‘romance’ of the night and often forget that, however unromantic, it is still important to use protection. This Valentine’s Day, people throughout the world gave out much more than chocolates and flowers – they gave out free condoms. Safe sex awareness events were held all across 13 countries, during the ‘season of love’.
World Condom Day is now observed at the same time as Valentine’s Day in order to promote the idea of safe sex on one of the most sexually active days of the year. The theme for the celebration this year was ‘Love is the Best Protection’.
This theme was designed to help spread a message of love as a way of preventing both HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. The thinking behind this is that the best way to show love both for yourself and for other people is to choose to use a condom. This protects everyone against unplanned pregnancies, and also improves the sexual health by protecting against HIV and other STDs. World Condom Day aims to ensure that people have greater access to free condoms than ever before, whilst educating them on the importance of choosing to have safe sex.
Condoms – when used correctly – are the only form of protection that helps to protect against contracting a sexually transmitted disease.
This is particularly important now, more than ever before, as experts have been reporting that a new STD has arrived which could be even more deadly than AIDS. If this super bug is not harnessed, it could cause the most devastating epidemic the world has ever seen.
Doctors have found that it may be harder to get rid of a sexual disease than was ever previously thought. Recent findings from scientists represent a serious blow to the wellness and wellbeing of anyone who has previously suffered from a sexually transmitted disease.
The scientists behind this discovery have revealed that your own stomach could re-infect you with a sexually transmitted disease: tests revealed that chlamydia can linger on in the stomach even after a course of antibiotics.
Although antibiotics can often eliminate the disease chlamydia from the genital region, it struggles to remove it from the gut. The disease then lingers on in the gut, albeit benignly, and has the ability to re-infect the body at a later date.
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases throughout the world, and becoming reinfected is surprisingly common.
This means that if you are diagnosed with an STD, having had one previously which ‘cleared up’ it is not a clear-cut case where you can point an accusing finger at your partner. This new research means that people should think twice before pointing the finger of blame, particularly if they have had chlamydia in the past.
Researchers from the Arkansas Children’s Research Institute found that this reservoir in the gut of benign chlamydia is the most common source of reinfections. This is a breakthrough in the world of sexual health treatment, as, although reinfections are common, the source has previously been unknown.
Another source of reinfection could be continued intercourse with a partner who is carrying an active infection. This often occurs because chlamydia in men usually doesn’t have any symptoms.
This new study was carried out on mice, where it was shown that even those who had eradicated chlamydia from their genitals still carried the disease in their gut.
A shocking survey into the sexual wellness and wellbeing of people in Britain today has revealed that around 20 percent of the population would have sexual intercourse with someone who they knew had a sexually transmitted disease.
The survey was carried out with a group of 18 to 30 year olds, 19 percent of whom said they would sleep with someone even if they knew that they had an STD. Of the people in the survey who said that they theoretically would, it was found that in fact 39 percent of them had unprotected sex in the past with a partner that they knew had an STD. Most of those surveyed said that they just wanted to have intercourse and deal with any consequences later. Of this group, 11 percent said that they ‘always’ let their passions get the better of their common sense.
These statistics equate to one in five young adults saying that they would have sex with someone despite knowing that person had a sexually transmitted disease. The research was commissioned by an online pharmacy, and carried out with a group of 1, 231 young adults. The thought process behind those who were willing to take the risk was generally just that they would ‘deal with any repercussions later’.
Some of those who said that they would have sex with someone who was suffering from an STD said that they would be happy to go ahead, because it was ‘impossible’ to catch an STD if you used protection (which his categorically untrue).
In addition to those who said that they definitely would have sex with someone who was suffering from an STD, a further quarter of those who were asked the question said that it would depend on which STD their partner was suffering from.
You learn about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) from a variety of sources; in sex education lessons, by word of mouth and from your friends. However, this wide range of fonts of information can potentially be damaging to your wellbeing; exposing you to a multitude of myths and urban legends surrounding in STDs. If you believe in such legends, you may be putting your sexual wellness at risk! To keep you and your partner safe and healthy in and outside the bedroom, we asked sexual health expert Lizette Borreli to debunk seven commonly-believed STD myths.
1. You Can’t Get an STD from Oral Sex: According to Borreli, ‘This myth is uttered by many teens, but it is 100% untrue. Unprotected oral sex — “blow jobs” or “going downtown” and whether you do it or it’s done to you, puts you at risk for an STD…If the partner is giving oral sex to a man, the risk increases if they have any cuts or scrapes in his or her mouth. These scrapes may include small ones caused by brushing or flossing before sex. Giving oral sex to a woman can increase the risk of infection if there is menstrual blood, if the woman has another STD in addition to HIV, or if the person performing oral sex has sores or cuts in his or her mouth.’
2. Pulling Out Prevents Pregnancy and STDs: ‘Better use protection,’ asserts Borreli. ‘The withdrawal or “pulling out” method does not prevent HIV or other STDs. Most disease-causing microorganisms are not contingent on ejaculation for transmission. This method is less effective at preventing pregnancy compared to condoms, the Pill, or shot.’
3. Birth Control Users Don’t Need to Worry About STDs: Borreli comments, ‘Birth control methods such as the pill are very effective at preventing pregnancy, but they do not protect against STDs. Condoms are the only method of protection against both STDs and pregnancy, says the Food and Drug Administration. Using a condom and also a birth control method like the pill will provide maximum protection for both partners.’
4. Douching After Sex or Having Sex in a Pool will Prevent STDs: ‘You’re still at risk,’ Borreli warns. ‘This classic urban legend has gained popularity under the belief that chlorine is a disinfectant that kills STD-causing bacteria or viruses. Chlorine is not a condom, and it will not kill sperm. If partners desire to have sex in a pool or hot tub, take extra precaution because latex condoms can easily break down in hot water temperatures.’
5. You Can Only Catch Herpes if Your Partner Has a Visible Outbreak: Borreli cautions, ‘Most people have no or few symptoms from a herpes infection. The majority of people with herpes are not aware that they have it, but symptoms such as itching or a burning feeling in the genital or anal area, swollen glands, or vaginal discharge, can last from two to three weeks. They commonly cause infections of the mouth and lips, also known as “fever blisters.”’
6. You Only Get STDs from Semen: ‘Think again,’ says Borreli. ‘Although semen and blood can spread STDs, some like herpes and syphilis can be transmitted by skin on skin contact. If a partner has herpes and experiences visible “fever blisters,” the sore can spread when it comes into contact with someone’s skin in areas like the mouth, throat, and cuts or rashes. A partner may become infected even before blisters begin to form.’
7. Lesbians Don’t Need to Worry About STDs: Borreli points out, ‘Women who have sex with other women may rarely get HIV, but the risk increases if a woman has sex with an HIV-positive woman, or injects drugs or has sex with a man who has HIV…This could happen because soft tissues, like those in the mouth, can come into contact with the vaginal fluid or menstrual blood of the woman infected with HIV. Women can spread a number of STDs to one another during oral sex, manual sex, or frottage.’
With everything from genital herpes to hepatitis threatening your sexual health today, safer sex has never been more important. However, while you can make sex safer, an important distinction to make is that you cannot completely guard your wellbeing against the dangers of sex. That said, without abstaining, there are ways you can make sex safer from infections, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unplanned pregnancy. Still, that doesn’t mean that safe sex has to be less fun or feel less good than you’re used to. Let’s discuss how to make sex safer and still fun.
1. Use condoms: According to wellness writer Maria Trimarchi, ‘Condoms reduce the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases, but no form of contraception can offer 100% protection. They reduce transmission of HIV by 85% and genital herpes by about 30%. Studies vary on how effective (or not so effective) condoms are at protecting you from syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia, but those studies do show that condoms offer some level of protection.’ So get out there and choose a condom that works for you! There are flavoured, coloured, ribbed and lubricated varieties, and you can even cut open condoms and use them as dental dams for safe oral sex with women.
2. Use a Lubricant: Trimarchi notes, ‘Wetter is better, especially when it comes to sex. Vaginal lubrication is key to sexual pleasure for both men and women, and sometimes there just isn’t enough. If sex is too dry, it can cause irritation and pain. Enter lube. Lubricant comes in a few forms: water-based, silicone-based and oil-based. Water- and silicone-based lubes are the best with condoms. Never use an oil-based lubricant with a condom – the oil will interact with the latex and cause it to break down. You can purchase lubricants in a variety of flavours, from spicy to sweet; there are options for the chocoholics out there, too. Some cause warming sensations, some make you tingle, and if you’re looking for an icy blast, pick up a cooling lube.’
3. Build the Anticipation: The things that lead up to sex can be just as exciting as intercourse, oral or anal sex. Trimarchi advises, ‘Use your seduction skills by leaving a sexy voicemail or text message for your partner, detailing what you have in store for him or her after work, or what you’d like to have done to you. Also, take the time to set the mood – both the mood of the room and your partner’s mood. Light candles or unwind with a massage. Take the time to enjoy your partner’s body by exploring and teasing – put an emphasis on foreplay.’
4. Try New Positions: Trimarchi asserts, ‘There’s nothing wrong with a favourite, go-to position that makes your toes curl, but there’s also nothing wrong with breaking out of your habit and spicing things up with a new position. Maybe not all of the 64 sexual activities described in the Kama Sutra are your taste, but something as simple as switching who gets to be on top (or side or behind) can increase pleasure and sensation. The angle of penetration that a new position may offer might just add to your enjoyment, and trying something new with your partner may increase your intimacy with each other.’
5. Get Out of the Bedroom: ‘Add a little bit of naughtiness to your sex life by trying out new locations for your sexual exploits,’ Trimarchi recommends. ‘In 2004, an ABC News “Primetime Live” poll found that 57% of Americans have had sex in a public place or outside, and 12% have had sex where they work…Whether it’s in the shower, on the couch or in a secluded but still public spot – make sure it’s secluded or risk an indecent exposure charge – sex can be more fun when you feel like you’re misbehaving.’
When you talk about protecting your sexual health, it generally involves another person. Not only could your wellness be at risk to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) but you’ve likely caught the disease from a sexual partner, meaning that their wellbeing has likewise been affected. However, is it possible to give yourself an STI, or to help it spread to other parts of your body? The answer is yes, especially when it comes to the human papillomavirus (HPV)
According to award-winning wellness writer Hope Gillette, ‘Because of the risks involved with this sexually transmitted infection (STI), awareness initiatives and vaccine promotions have increased in recent years, but many individuals remain unaware there is a self-inoculation risk associated with HPV. Self-inoculation, or the transmission of a disease from one part of the body to another, is rarely thought of with HPV, which most individuals associate with the appearance of genital warts.The human papillomavirus is more diverse than this, however, and while it does commonly affect the surface of the vagina, anus, vulva, cervix, and penis head, it also can affect the mouth and the throat.’
Researchers at the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions point out that, because HPV is capable of affecting your oral and sexual wellbeing, this makes it perfectly possible for you to spread the infection from your genital area to your mouth and throat without the aid of a sexual partner. Gillette notes, ‘Oral HPV is considered by the American Cancer Association to be one of the up-and-coming contributors to the rate of oral cancers seen annually in the United States; approximately 42,000 people are diagnosed with the condition annually.’ Maura L. Gillison, MD, PhD, of JohnsHopkinsUniversity in Baltimore, adds, ‘The number of oropharyngeal cancers caused by HPV is probably larger than the number caused by smoking and alcohol, at least in the US. This expands our idea of who might be at risk for head and neck cancers. There is a proven survival benefit to catching these cancers early, so recognizing that people without traditional risk factors may still be at risk is important.’
There are more than 100 strains of HPV, but not all of these strains lead to serious health risks. However, the Mouth Cancer Foundation states that if you do develop an oral HPV infection, you are a whopping 32 times more likely than other individuals to develop oral cancers. This increased risk is way beyond that which smokers or drinkers experience, even for people who both drink AND smoke. Gillette details, ‘Oropharyngeal cancer occurs in the area beyond the mouth from the base of the tongue to the back of the throat. Oral HPV infection is also more common among men than women, though researchers are unsure why this disparity exists.’ Men, you need to watch out as you are roughly three times more likely to develop an oral HPV infection than your female counterpart. In 2012, a study showed that approximately 10% of men ages 14 to 69 have an oral HPV infection, compared to just 3.6% of women.
So how can you prevent self-inoculation of HPV? Gillette advises, ‘While it is not always possible to prevent self-inoculation of HPV, examination of personal sexual habits is the first step toward keeping the virus at bay. Individuals who participate in activities which involve genital-to-mouth contact from their own bodies are at risk for oral infection. If these habits cannot be adjusted, research from the University of Texas School of Public Health in Houston suggests oral mouthwash, brushing and regular flossing can help reduce an individual’s risk of contracting oral HPV.’
Safe sex may be the sensible option, but sensible isn’t always the most exciting word to enter a conversation. However, as much as we want to lead a passionate sex life with our partner, we can’t neglect our health in the process. Here are some ways to make sex as fun as possible without compromising on the safer side of things.
Use condoms
Intimacy and orgasms unfortunately go hand in hand with sexually transmitted diseases more often than not these days, making sex a complicated mix of pleasure and pain. But if you’re not willing to abstain, what can you do to make sex safer? The most effective way is to use a condom. Safer sex is the only way to go, a there’s no such thing as 100 per cent safe sex – there are always risks. But condoms certainly take a lot of the risk out of sex, and they don’t have to mean a lack of passion. There are plenty of options on the market now to keep sex fun whilst using condoms, as well as a number of options for people who are allergic to latex, so you don’t need to miss out. From flavoured, ribbed, lubricated and coloured, to name just a few, there’s a condom out there to suit everyone, as well as plenty of shapes and sizes for the perfect fit.
Opt for a lubricant
When it comes to sex, the wetter the better should be your motto. Vaginal lubricant is a great tool if you want great sex, for both men and women, and it helps you to avoid irritation and pain from dry sex. There are a few forms of lube, including oil-based, water-based and silicone-based. If you’re using them with condoms, as previously mentioned, water and silicone-based are the safest options as oils break down the latex. You can also get flavoured lubes to make oral sex more fun, as well as those with warming and cooling sensations for exciting sex for both guys and girls.
Get tested regularly
Getting checked for sexually transmitted diseases may not be fun or particularly sexy, but there is something sexy about being able to have sex confident in the knowledge that you’re free of infection. Anxiety about those types of issues doesn’t make sex fun. Regular check-ups not only put your worries to rest but they also stop you spreading infection to your partner, and keep your health in tip-top condition. Your GP can advise of places nearby where you can be checked for free, as well as offering advice if you have any concerns or questions.
Build the excitement before you hit the bedroom
Having sex is fun but you need to build the anticipation before you get into bed. Penetrative sex and an orgasm don’t need to be the only goals – you can have fun by simply arousing each other as well. Use your seduction skills by leaving a note or a sexy voicemail while you’re partner is out at work, or set the mood with a romantic massage or by lighting candles. Get creative – there are loads of ways you can get each other excited, without relying on penetrative sex all the time.
Take sex out of the bedroom
On a similar note, why not be creative with your locations as well? You don’t need to limit your sex life to the bedroom – why not take it to other areas of the house such as the shower? You could even see how adventurous you both feel and take it to a secluded spot outside.
There is a belief that a man thinks about sex 8,000 times a day. Although there is no evidence confirming this, our question and answer section is testimony to the fact that men are definitely very worried about their sexual health and performance. So, to help resolve all those questions, here is a quick quiz that will tell you exactly where you stand.
Q. How long should you take to ejaculate?
a. Intercourse must continue for 30 to 40 minutes
b. 3 to 5 minutes after penetration
c. It should take less than a minute
Answer (b): Porn has led many men to think that 30 to 40 minutes is how long an erect penis should last. However, this notion is incorrect as porn is staged and is often performed with cuts. According to studies, the average time that a man should take to ejaculate is between 3 to 5 minutes. (Read: Premature ejaculation: Beat it for real!)
Q. Which of these can lead to infertility?
a. Being overweight
b. Kegels exercise
c. Using lubricants for sex
Answer (a): Most fat men tend to have high cholesterol which causes clogged arteries and prevents efficient blood flow. They also tend to have heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, higher stress levels and other obesity related issues which don’t bode well for your penis. (Read: 10 things that could cause infertility)
Q. Which of these factors cannot lead to premature ejaculation?
Q. Which among these is a health benefit of masturbation?
a. Reduced risk of prostate cancer
b. Reduced risk of heart disease
c. Reduced risk of osteoporosis
Answer (a): A 2003 Australian study observed that men who ejaculated more than five times a week were less likely to develop prostate cancer. Masturbating flushes your system and prevents cancerous cells from building up. (Read: Masturbation: Is it bad for you? (Expert speak))
Q. Can you increase your penis size by exercising it?
a. Yes, there are devices available in the market that can help you do that.
b. No, it’s not possible.
c. Masturbation is the only exercise it can get
Answer (b): Unlike the muscles on your shoulders and chest, you cannot increase your penis size by exercising it. Rings, vacuum pumps and other devices sold in the market that claim to do so are bogus and you should stay away from them. (Read: Penis size – should you really worry about it?)
Q. Which of these is not a technique to beat premature ejaculation?
a. Seman’s manoevure
b. Squeeze technique
c. Heimlich manoevure
Answer (c): Heimlich manoeuvre will not help beat premature ejaculation as it is used to rescue a choking victim.
Q. Which of these is not a sexually transmitted disease?
a. Gonorrhea
b. Osteoporosis
c. Syphillis
Answer (b): Osteoporosis is not a sexually transmitted disease. The term STDs or Sexually transmitted diseases refer to diseases that are transmitted by some form of sexual contact including kissing, oral, anal or vaginal sex.
Q. Who should avoid taking Viagra?
a. People who want to increase their libido
b. People who want to increase the length of their penis
c. All of the above
Answer (c): Viagra isn’t an aphrodisiac. It is not meant for people who want to increase their libido. Nor is it meant for people who want to increase the length and girth of their penis.
Q. Which of these things should you not do to beat performance anxiety?
a. Think about being the ‘perfect lover’
b. Talk to your partner
c. Set aside some alone time
Answer (a): Thinking of being the perfect lover may lead you to set unrealistic expectations, and the pressure created may lead to premature ejaculation. Remember that sex is not about proving yourself. This has nothing to do with proving your manhood. Don’t get trapped in that cycle.
When you’re in a long-distance relationship, you might not think you have any sexual health concerns to consider. Even if you’re sexting or having phone sex or online sex (also known as virtual sex or cyber sex) your wellness isn’t at risk of the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from your partner, not can you pass STIs on to them. Nonetheless, virtual sex does pose certain risks to your wellbeing, so if you’re engaging in virtual sex – or thinking of trying it – there are some things you need to know.
During virtual sex, you exchange dirty talk or send explicit pictures or videos to someone else via phone calls, text messages, internet chat rooms, email, instant messaging or online video chat (such as Skype or facetime). This may be with your regular partner or someone new that you have met online. Virtual sex can involve just talking or flirting, or partners can masturbate while the sexy stuff is going on. The two important factors in good cyber sex are communication and imagination. You need to paint a picture in your partner’s mind and respond in a sexy way to the things they send to you.
Although there’s no risk of sexually transmitted infections, there are other risks from virtual sex you need to consider. It is easy to record phone conversations, or make sexy chat, pictures or video public. If you are having virtual sex with someone you don’t know, or there’s a risk that, if things go south, your partner might want to hurt you or take revenge in some way, you need to be aware that you’re giving another person a weapon against you. Not only could this be highly embarrassing, but having photos, videos or sexy conversations out in the public could impact on your job and other relationships, and even lead to cyber-bullying. Once you put that stuff out there, you have no idea whose hands it could end up in. In fact, the Internet Watch Foundation recently found that up to 88% of self-generated images were lifted from their original location and made public across a number of different sites without the permission or awareness of the image owner.
The risks of virtual sex aren’t limited to the possibility of other people seeing what you do; there are also emotional impacts to consider. If you have virtual sex with someone other that your regular partner, you may justify it by saying that, if you’re not actually having sex with someone, it’s not really cheating. However, having virtual sex with someone else can have just as much of an emotional impact on your relationship as physical intimacy can. You may feel guilty about engaging in something so intimate with another person, and your partner will still feel hurt and betrayed when he or she finds out.
If you meet someone online for a “no ties” session of virtual sex, you need to be aware that he or she is still a real person, and could track you down in your real life. You can’t fully judge a person over the internet, which means they could turn out to be nasty or not be who you thought they were. Another risk of having virtual sex with someone you don’t know is that they could be lying about their age. While it’s perfectly legal to have virtual sex with a consenting adult, if you have sexual images sent to you by, or of, someone under 16 you could be classed as having child pornography. If you then send these photos on, you could be guilty of distributing child pornography. It is also an offence to send sexual images of yourself to someone under 16, and you could end up in prison or on the sex offenders register.
As a parent, nothing wreaks havoc on your mental wellness more than the idea that your teenagers are having sex. Unfortunately, however, teen sexual health is a pressing issue, with research showing that many teenagers are sexually active by the time they reach high school. This means that your child’s wellbeing is at great risk to pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as the emotional consequences of having sex. Therefore, you have to get proactive with your teen, and discuss the importance of contraception before sexual activity begins.
When having “The Talk” with your teenager, abstinence is still a valid subject to discuss. Whether you feel strongly against the idea of sex before marriage, or you just want to make sure your son or daughter is ready to have sex, explain how you feel to your teen. It’s easy to fall into the trap of telling your teen what to do, without letting them know your reasons for doing so. Share the reasons behind your beliefs, rather than just laying down the law, and you’ll give your teenager something to think about and, hopefully, believe themselves.
That is not to say you should ignore your teenager’s own values – far from it. You should ask your teenager to think about their values and hopes for the future, and how sex might affect these things. Adolescents are particularly prone to risky sexual behaviours, and the only way to absolutely prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections – such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes and HIV – is to practice abstinence from all forms of sexual activity. Plus, having sex makes break-ups all the more emotionally damaging, so remind your teen that there are many nonsexual ways he or she can show feelings for someone.
That said, you can’t stop your teenager from doing what he or she wants to do. However, you can make sure they practise safe sex. It’s important for everyone to understand birth control, whether your teenager has decided to wait for sex or not. One day, he or she will need to know how to prevent pregnancy and protect himself or herself from sexually transmitted infections, and the only way to ensure they gain this knowledge is to give it to them. When talking about contraception, don’t be vague but go into all the methods available. This includes:
1. Condoms: While other contraceptives prevent pregnancy, your teenager needs a barrier method in order to guard their wellbeing against STIs. Make sure your teen understands the importance of always using condoms during sex, as well as the correct way of using them.
2. Prescription birth control: There are various contraceptive methods your teenager can get on prescription to prevent pregnancy. This includes combination birth control pills, the contraceptive patch (Ortho Evra), vaginal ring (NuvaRing) and contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera). Your daughter will need to visit a doctor, who will review her medical history, conduct a pelvic exam, and go over the risks and benefits of different types of birth control. While these methods can be extremely effective in preventing pregnancies, make sure your teen knows that prescription birth control doesn’t offer protection from STIs.
3. Emergency birth control: While it’s important for your teen to make a decision about birth control before having sex, emergency contraception — such as the morning-after pill (Ella, Plan B One-Step or Next Choice) — can help prevent pregnancy if your teen doesn’t plan ahead or contraception fails. You need to tell your teenager that emergency contraception must be started as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, and within 120 hours to be effective.
As a parent, nothing wreaks havoc on your mental wellness more than the idea that your teenagers are having sex. Unfortunately, however, teen sexual health is a pressing issue, with research showing that many teenagers are sexually active by the time they reach high school. This means that your child’s wellbeing is at great risk to pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as the emotional consequences of having sex. Therefore, you have to get proactive with your teen, and discuss the importance of contraception before sexual activity begins.
When having “The Talk” with your teenager, abstinence is still a valid subject to discuss. Whether you feel strongly against the idea of sex before marriage, or you just want to make sure your son or daughter is ready to have sex, explain how you feel to your teen. It’s easy to fall into the trap of telling your teen what to do, without letting them know your reasons for doing so. Share the reasons behind your beliefs, rather than just laying down the law, and you’ll give your teenager something to think about and, hopefully, believe themselves.
That is not to say you should ignore your teenager’s own values – far from it. You should ask your teenager to think about their values and hopes for the future, and how sex might affect these things. Adolescents are particularly prone to risky sexual behaviours, and the only way to absolutely prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections – such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes and HIV – is to practice abstinence from all forms of sexual activity. Plus, having sex makes break-ups all the more emotionally damaging, so remind your teen that there are many nonsexual ways he or she can show feelings for someone.
That said, you can’t stop your teenager from doing what he or she wants to do. However, you can make sure they practise safe sex. It’s important for everyone to understand birth control, whether your teenager has decided to wait for sex or not. One day, he or she will need to know how to prevent pregnancy and protect himself or herself from sexually transmitted infections, and the only way to ensure they gain this knowledge is to give it to them. When talking about contraception, don’t be vague but go into all the methods available. This includes:
1. Condoms: While other contraceptives prevent pregnancy, your teenager needs a barrier method in order to guard their wellbeing against STIs. Make sure your teen understands the importance of always using condoms during sex, as well as the correct way of using them.
2. Prescription birth control: There are various contraceptive methods your teenager can get on prescription to prevent pregnancy. This includes combination birth control pills, the contraceptive patch (Ortho Evra), vaginal ring (NuvaRing) and contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera). Your daughter will need to visit a doctor, who will review her medical history, conduct a pelvic exam, and go over the risks and benefits of different types of birth control. While these methods can be extremely effective in preventing pregnancies, make sure your teen knows that prescription birth control doesn’t offer protection from STIs.
3. Emergency birth control: While it’s important for your teen to make a decision about birth control before having sex, emergency contraception — such as the morning-after pill (Ella, Plan B One-Step or Next Choice) — can help prevent pregnancy if your teen doesn’t plan ahead or contraception fails. You need to tell your teenager that emergency contraception must be started as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, and within 120 hours to be effective.
There are certain health risks to all women, but women who have sex with women are at an increased risk of specific health concerns. Your individual risks are shaped around the many factors that go beyond your orientation and practices, such as your family history and age. It’s important to understand the common risks associated with lesbian sex, and the steps you can take to ensure that you’re healthy and safe at all times. People always associate STIs with gay sex, but there are still sexually transmitted diseases to consider within lesbian relationships as well. For example, the HPV virus, bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas can spread between women. Likewise, oral, digital-vaginal or digital-anal contact, or using shared sex toys, can all spread infection. There is also a risk of sexual contact leading to HIV being spread, which is the virus that causes AIDs. There are ways to protect yourself against these infections though, from regular checks to medication.
As with anyone else, getting yourself checked for STIs regularly is very important. You and your partner should be tested, and you should never have unprotected sex with anyone unless you’re certain that you’re both clear of any diseases. Diseases can often be contracted without any symptoms, so being checked at a clinic is the only way to be sure that you’re both clean. Again, as with anyone, protection should be used to limit the spread of STIs. You can use dental dams or a condom that’s been split open during oral sex, and try not to share sex toys. Being monogamous is another reliable way to ensure that you’re both staying free of infections. In 2012, the Food and Drug Administration approved a drug named Truvada which is said to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infections in people who are high risks. It’s also used as an HIV treatment with other medications. You should limit the amount of alcohol you drink and don’t use drugs – these lower your inhibitions and could lead to you making unsafe choices. You should get vaccinated against HPV virus and hepatitis B.
Lesbians and bisexual women are, reportedly, at higher risk of anxiety and depression. This is particularly the case in young people who identify as gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual. The contributing factors may include anything from social alienation or rejection from loved ones, to abuse or violence. This may also be more of a risk in lesbians who try to hide their orientation and sexual behaviour. The best way to combat this is to confide in a friend and share your feelings, to help you feel less alone and stressed by the situation. If you don’t feel like there is anyone you can turn to, you may benefit from counselling sessions where you can speak to someone trained in these matters. Likewise, lesbians and bisexual women may face unique risk factors for substance abuse, such as stress, the impact of sexism and discrimination, trauma from bullying and violence, or relying on bars and clubs for socialising and peer support. There are a number of groups and services available to help lesbians and gay people come to terms with their sexuality, and to deal with the impact it has on their mental, emotional and physical health in certain circumstances. The most important thing to do is to be vigilant of your health and ensure that you practice safe sex whoever you’re sleeping with.
You may have heard that spermicides can help protect your sexual health and wellness, but what exactly are they? You get spermicides in all different forms, from creams, gels and foams to films and suppositories. Spermicides protect your wellbeing against unwanted pregnancy, but they are far more effective when used in conjunction with another method of birth control, such as a condom or diaphragm.
Most spermicides contain nonoxynol-9, a chemical that immobilises and kills sperm before they are able to swim into the uterus. In order to ensure you use the spermicide effectively, you need to place it deep in your vagina, close to your cervix. If the type of spermicide you’re using is a cream, gel or foam, you squirt the solution into your vagina using an applicator. You can also use vaginal suppositories, or a vaginal contraceptive film (VCF). This is a thin sheet placed in the back of your vagina by hand. You place the spermicide in your vagina before intercourse, according to the instructions. Some forms of spermicides offer protection right away, while the vast majority will take at least 15 minutes to dissolve and spread. Once you’ve inserted your spermicide, it will only be effective for one hour. Therefore, you need to reapply the spermicide if more than one hour goes by before having sex, or if you have sex again. When using spermicides, you should not douche for at least six hours after having sex.
Using spermicides for birth control is fairly effective, with a success rate of 71%. Over the course of a year, about 29 out of 100 typical couples who rely on spermicide alone to prevent pregnancy will have an accidental pregnancy. However, this is just an average, which doesn’t mean a whole lot to you as an individual. The efficacy of your spermicide use will entirely depend on whether or not you do it correctly, and if you remember to use spermicides every time you have sex. The key thing to remember is that spermicides are most effective when used in combination with another form of birth control. Spermicides alone cannot protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), only a male or female condom, or abstaining from sex altogether, provides STD protection. Plus, if you use spermicide frequently, it can cause irritation that may increase your risk of getting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
When it comes to the pros and cons of using spermicide, there are points to consider on both sides of the coin. While spermicides are not as effective on their own as other forms of birth control, they are convenient, inexpensive, and easy to use. These are important factors in birth control, as you need a method that you’ll remember to use and do so correctly each time. However, the efficacy of spermicides will somewhat depend on any health conditions you may have, or any medications you’re taking that might interfere with their use. Plus, as spermicides have been known to irritate the vagina and surrounding skin, it may make it easier to be infected with STDs like HIV. Another possible side effect is recurrent urinary tract infections because the spermicide can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your body.
Still, spermicides can provide extra protection against pregnancy when used in conjunction with condoms or other barrier methods of birth control. They’re available without a prescription and are found in chemists and some supermarkets, often found the condoms and feminine hygiene products. Just make sure you’re careful when choosing a spermicide; the packages may look like those of some feminine hygiene products, such as douches or washes, which don’t provide any birth control protection at all.
Using protection is absolutely essential to your sexual health, so why do so many women leave it up to the guys to sort it out? You need to use condoms to protect your wellbeing against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) but as condoms aren’t 100% effective, most wellness experts will recommend doubling up on your protection. Some women turn to the Pill or the Patch for birth control but if you don’t like the idea of messing with your hormones, and you know you won’t remember to regularly take a pill or replace a patch, you might like to consider the cervical cap.
The cervical cap is a silicone, thimble-shaped cup that fits over your cervix (or the part of your uterus that opens into the upper part of your vagina. The cap provides a barrier (hence, barrier method of contraception) between your partner’s sperm and your egg. The cap also gives you added protection through its coating of spermicide. Instead of relying on yourself to turn to protection in the heat of the moment, the cap can be inserted up to six hours before having sex and must be left in for six to 48 hours – no more, no less. If you’re having sex more than once during this time, you should add spermicide to the cap each time and leave the cap in for at least six hours after sex.
When removing the cap, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The cap has to be placed properly in order to work, so you should be comfortable feeling for your cervix deep inside your vagina. To remove the cap, you have to place your finger inside your vagina and pull it out. Then, you must wash the cap with mild soap and water, rinse it, air dry it and store it in its case every time you use it. You shouldn’t dust the cap with talcum powder or use it with oil-based lubricants such as mineral oil, petroleum jelly, or baby oil. This is because these substances can interfere with the material in the cap, causing it to become brittle and crap. This can also be the case with other vaginal creams, such as medicines for yeast infection, so tread carefully.
So that’s how you use it, but does it actually work? The cervical cap has an 86% success rate of preventing unwanted pregnancies. However, if you’ve already had a baby, the cervical cap will be less effective. Over the course of one year, 29 out of 100 typical couples who use the cervical cap after the woman has had a baby will have an accidental pregnancy. Obviously, your odds of success when using this method of birth control will depend on a number of factors. You’ll need to use the cap correctly, use it every time you have sex, and not have any health conditions or take any medications that might interfere with its use.
While the cervical cap is known as a barrier method of contraception – as it provides a barrier between the sperm and the egg – that does not mean it does the exact same job as condoms; protection against STIs. The cervical cap will not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Therefore, if you’re having sex with someone who has never been tested for STIs, you must always make sure he wears a condom, even if you’re wearing your cervical cap. As a doctor or nurse has to fit you for a cervical cap, and will teach you more about inserting and removing it, consult your GP for more information.
Men who have sex with other men don’t often reveal their sexual practices or sexual orientation to their GP. But this lack of disclosure could lead to a number of health problems being overlooked, either through a lack of information or an inadequately trained physician. Because of the greater societal pressure and lack of emotional support leading to the practice of unsafe sex could puts the risk of sexually transmitted diseases higher. This is especially the case when combined with drug abuse, psychological issues and behavioural disorders. Recent trends show that an increasing rate of sexual risk takers among these men, especially among young men. Periodic screening is thought to be more successful the earlier it is started, to assess the health risks and current health state, as well as giving GPs a better understanding of their patients’ medical past for any future appointments. The physician should offer advice and question their sexual orientation in a non-judgemental and confidential manner, to ensure that their patient feels comfortable in talking about their sexual practices.
Targeted screening for depression, sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse, and a host of other disorders, should be performed routinely. The guidelines for these screenings do offer some suggestions for the care of men who have sex with other men, though they are inconsistent and subject to change. Men who have sex with men may identify themselves as heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual. Whatever label is used, it’s important to remember that these men are at an increased risk of HIV, anal cancer, and psychological or behavioural disorders. As such, their health care needs to be assessed differently regardless of how they classify their sexual orientation. The rate of men who had sex with men in the previous year was believed to be 1.7 to 2 per cent. However, surveys from 1996 to 200 show that this rate is at least 3.1 to 3.7 per cent. Previous estimates were, as a result, far too low and this could result in many men not being asked the right questions by their physician, leading to greater health risks.
This is something GPs need to consider when speaking to their male patients. Recent trends show that there has been a resurgence in the risky sexual practices that put men at risk of STDs and HIV infections. For example, the prevalence of men taking part in unprotected anal intercourse increased from 37 per cent to 50 per cent from 1993-94 to 1996-97. Particularly in the case of younger men, the disease risk isn’t assessed a lot of the time because if the numerous impediments to adequate care under the current healthcare system. Family GPs need to find an effective system in order to identify and assess the risk in men who have sex with men, so that the right screening can take place. Although men who have sex with men can be at a higher risk than other for preventable diseases and health problems, they don’t receive the appropriate preventative services. There are a number of hindrances for these screening guidelines, such as some physicians feeling uncomfortable discussing the concept of men having sex with men, or not understanding the issues these men face. As such, their patients will not feel comfortable in discussing these issues openly and that could put their health at risk. In creating a more in-depth and effective screening process, men who have sex with men won’t need to miss out on the health care services they require.
New study data suggests that an increasing number of adolescents in American lack the antibodies to protect them later in life against a significant cause of genital herpes. According to the study, fewer teens have been exposed to their childhood herpes simplex virus known as HSV-1, a common cause of cold sores, than they were years previously. Without these antibodies, teens could be more at risk when they become sexually active, leading to genital infections that are also caused by the virus, particularly oral sex. HSV-1 and a similarly related virus, the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), both cause lifelong infections and there is currently no cure – it can go through periods where the infection is dormant after an initial outbreak. Most people develop this strain in childhood, through skin-to-skin contact with an infected adult. However, HSV-2 is only contracted sexually. Recent research has discovered that HSV-1 is becoming a significant cause of genital herpes in certain countries, according to new studies.
In the most recent study, Heather Bradley PhD looked into the prevalence of HSV-1 and 2 in 14 to 49 year olds in the U.S, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, including blood samples. The data found that an increasing number of U.S adolescents lacked the antibody at their first sexual encounter, making genital herpes more of a risk from that strain. The combination of increased oral sex behaviours among young people and the increased likelihood means that adolescents could be more likely to acquire HSV-1 than previous generations. The study’s key finding is that HSV-1 seroprevalence among 14 to 19 year olds has dropped by almost 23 per cent between 1999 and 2004, and 2005 to 2010. The difference that has occurred over the past ten years represents around a nine per cent decrease in the percentage of adolescents who’ve already had oral HSV-1 as they enter their sexually active years. During this time, exposure to the virus genitally is increasingly common, meaning that the risk of genital herpes is also common.
Teens could be making the problem worse by changing their sexual practices. An unintended consequence of the success of public campaigns which aim to limit the spread of HIV have led to some people believing that oral sex is safer. Naturally, this form of sex has its own set of sexually transmitted diseases and has increased the risk of genital herpes. Up to 30 per cent of infected infants will die from this infection if they have the most severe form of the disease, according to researchers. Sexually transmitted diseases are more common now, as young people are becoming sexually active earlier than they used to and are doing so with less understanding of contraception and safe sex practices. Although many teens don’t use it, there are many forms of contraception to make sex safer, both penetrative and oral sex. Finding the right form of contraception and following safe sex practices is important for anyone who is sexually active. The best advice if you’re unsure about contraception or how to use it correctly is to speak to your local GUM clinic or book an appointment with your GP who can advise you of the best forms of contraception for your needs. They will be able to speak to you about how to use contraception correctly, which forms are available to you and also offer regular check-ups to ensure that you remain healthy and free of sexually transmitted diseases.
A new study led by Joelle Brown at the University of California, San Francisco suggests that women who use petroleum jelly vaginally might be at the risk of a common infection called bacterial vaginosis.
Earlier research on the topic has certainly linked douching to harmful effects such as sexually transmitted diseases (STD), pelvic inflammatory diseases as well as bacterial vaginosis. However, according to Brown, very less research has been carried out on other products used by women vaginally.
After studying 141 Los Angeles women, the research derived that half of them had used some varied products vaginally in the past one month including petroleum jelly, baby oil and other sexual lubricants. Around 45 percent of them reported douching.
While testing the women for any infections, the study showed that women who used petroleum jelly in the past month were at a greater risk of bacterial vaginosis compared to the non-users.
What causes bacterial vaginosis? What are the symptoms?
The infection occurs due to a disruption or an imbalance caused between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the vagina. Itching, burning sensation, discharge or pain can be a few symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. However most of the women suffering from this infection may not get any symptoms mentioned. The infection generally doesn’t cause long term problems.
Nevertheless, bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of contracting various STD’s including HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This can also lead to infertility in women due to a pelvic inflammatory disease.
Dr. Sten Vermund, director of the Institute for Global Health at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, Tenn supports the research too. According to him, it’s the alkaline properties in the petroleum jelly that increases the growth of bad bacteria in the vagina. He said, “An acidic vaginal environment is what protects women from colonization from abnormal organisms”.
As per Vermund, many studies have linked douching to a higher risk of vaginal infections as the practice disturbs the natural vaginal ecology. Experts believe that women don’t need to use products in order to clean the vagina. The area predominantly holds ‘good’ bacteria which produces hydrogen peroxide that works as a natural cleansing agent. However women continue to douche using various products available in the market.
These products might contain antiseptics and fragrances that can cause ill effects. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 40 percent of women aged 18 to 44 douche regularly. On this Vermund commented, “The frequency with which American women use unnecessary and harmful intra-vaginal products is unfortunate”.
What study suggests?
The research was conducted on a group of racially diverse women who were ready to test themselves for sexually transmitted diseases. The team found out that more than 25 percent of women were tested positive for HIV. Around 21 percent had bacterial vaginosis and 6 percent were suffering from yeast infection. As mentioned earlier, women who’d used petroleum jelly in the past month were 2.2 times more likely to be having bacterial vaginosis, keeping in mind the other factors such as age, race and douching habits.
It was found that the women were using the product not because they saw any symptoms. In fact, the ones affected did not show any sign or report vaginal symptoms. And the ones with symptoms said that they didn’t use petroleum jelly as a cure.
In contrast to Brown’s study, douching was not linked to bacterial vaginosis risk. This can be because of conducting the test on a small number of women as per Brown. Another fact she mentioned is that women use various other stuff to clean the insides that may comprise different chemicals and concentrations.
Likewise, sexual lubricants were not linked to bacterial vaginosis and as per Vermund, this research assures comfort to women who use sexual lubricants. However, Brown believes that more research and findings should be conducted on a larger basis in order to find out the effects of various products used by women vaginally.
As of now, Brown suggests that women should understand and know all the details of a product before using it. “Women should talk with their health care providers and ask them if the products they are using inside their vagina are known to be safe for use in the vagina,” Brown said.
In the quest for better wellness, the vagina often gets overlooked. However, Dr Suzy Elneil, consultant in urogynaecology at University College Hospital, London, and spokesperson for Wellbeing of Women, says, ‘Generally, good vaginal health is maintained by making sure you’re in good general health. This includes healthy diet and exercise. Normal exercise helps maintain good vaginal function, as walking and running helps the pelvic floor to tone up and helps ensure good general health.’
Still what about when you’ve got a lot of discharge, bacteria or a bad odour coming from your vagina? According to Dr Elneil, ‘Vaginal discharge is not always a bad sign. There is a myth that copious clear or white discharge is associated with sexually transmitted infections. Changes in the amount of discharge can be 100% hormonal – in other words, linked to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause.’ Professor Ronnie Lamont, spokesperson for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), adds, ‘The vagina contains more bacteria than anywhere else in the body after the bowel, but the bacteria are there for a reason.’ If the balance of bacteria is disturbed, this can lead to infection and inflammation. So, how do take care of your vaginal wellness?
1. Washing your vagina: Perfumed soaps, gels and antiseptics can affect the healthy balance of bacteria and pH levels in your vagina and cause irritation, so these are best avoided. You’re better off gently washing the area around your vagina (the vulva) with unperfumed, plain soap every day. Professor Lamont notes, ‘All women are different. Some may wash with perfumed soap and not notice any problems. But if a woman has vulva irritation or symptoms, then one of the first things you can do is to use non-allergenic, plain soaps to see if that helps.’ Dr Elneil adds, ‘During your period, washing more than once a day may be helpful,’ and it’s also essential to keep the area between the vagina and anus clean, ‘by washing that area at least once a day using your normal bathing routines.’
2. Douches: Some women use a douche to “clean” the inside of the vagina, as it flushes water up into the area and clears out vaginal secretions. However, the inside of your vagina is self-cleaning, and using a douche can disrupt your normal vaginal bacteria. Professor Lamont explains, ‘I can’t think of any circumstances where douches are helpful, because all they do is wash out everything that’s in the vagina, including all the healthy bacteria.’ Although you may think that douching protects your wellbeing against STIs or vaginal infections, it may in fact increase your risk.
3. Scented wipes and vaginal deodorants: Again, these products can disrupt your vagina’s natural, healthy balance. Professor Lamont comments, ‘If nature had intended the vagina to smell like roses or lavender, it would have made the vagina smell like roses or lavender. Dr Elneil points out that it’s normal for your vagina to have a natural scent, noting, ‘Vaginal odour can change at different times of the reproductive cycle and shouldn’t always be thought of as being a sign of infection or illness.’ However, sometimes if the vaginal smell is very unpleasant it may indicate a sexual health problem, especially if you also have unusual vaginal discharge. These two symptoms together are caused by bacterial vaginosis, which is easily treated with antibiotics. You should consult your GP if you’re concerned.
4. Safer sex: During sex, some bacteria and viruses can get into the vagina, including the bugs that cause sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Unless you use a condom every time you have sex, you’re exposing yourself to chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, genital warts, syphilis and HIV.
5. Cervical screening: If you’re aged between 25 and 64, it’s important to have regular cervical screenings. This makes it easier to catch any abnormal changes in your cervix early on, which may make all the difference to your wellbeing. The earlier abnormalities are identified, the earlier they can be treated to stop cancer developing. Talk to your GP to find out more about cervical screening.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a growing and serious problem. One of the worst things about them is that people don’t understand too much about them, which can leave them untreated for a long time and this can make them worse. With that in mind here is some useful information about three of the most damaging STIs.
Genital warts
Genital warts are caused by the HPV virus. They are small fleshy growths or skin changes that appear around the genital or anal area. They are actually the second most common infection after chlamydia. Warts can appear on their own or in large groups. To treat them there are a number of things that you can do. Applying creams or lotions is usually enough for most forms of the infection. Some harder warts can require laser treatment.
Chlamydia
While chlamydia can be a serious problem for men, it is actually much more of a danger to women. Untreated chlamydia can lead to infertility and miscarriage, and as 70 to 80 per cent of women don’t show symptoms this can be very alarming. Fortunately, 95 per cent of cases can be treated with antibiotics, so if you fear that you might be infected with chlamydia it is worth going to see a sexual health doctor.
Genital herpes
This STI is caused by the herpes simplex virus (which can also cause sold sores on your mouth), and infected people may get red blisters in the genital area, thighs and buttocks. Common symptoms are pain when urinating, vaginal discharge, fever and aches and pains are also very likely. Antiviral tablet can be prescribed.
