Are you embarrassed about telling your partner(s) that you've been
diagnosed with an STD? There is a new service which can help.
InSpot.org
offers free
e-mail postcards to comfortably, and anonymously relay the news to your
partner(s).
"It's kind of like the e-vite for party notifications, but this is for STD
notifications," said Dr. Jeffrey Klausner of the San Francisco Department of Public
Health.
Condom
Common Sense
1.
Heat, light and rough handling can break down
latex condoms. Do not store them in your wallet, pocket, or
glove compartment. Do not use a condom that is
over a year old, or past the expiration date.
2.
Condoms do not prevent
transmission of HIV; though they greatly decrease your risk.
For HIV protection, do not use a spermicide with
the condom. Spermicides can irritate the skin tissue making it more
susceptible to viruses.
3.
If you have concerns
regarding a loss of sensation with a condom, make
sure that
you have the proper size. Also consider using a thinner
brand (the package will mention the thickness), and use a
little silicone or water-based lubricant inside the condom. This will
provide more stimulation.
4.
Do not use an oil based lubricant
with a latex condom. Oil will erode the latex, creating tiny
holes for bacteria transmission, and may also cause the condom to break.
5.
If during partner sex you
have difficulty maintaining an erection with a condom,
practice using a condom when you self-pleasure. Become
familiar with your new orgasmic peak, and practice
increasing and decreasing your arousal level. You will
become comfortable and more confident with a condom. An added benefit -
you will probably last longer.
Jan Vinzenz Krause, of the German Insti-tute for Condom Consultancy,
made world-wide headlines in 2006 when he announced his spray-on condom.
No, this is not a spray can, but rather a chamber, somewhat like an
"intimate car- wash" with jets that spray a latex coating over the penis.
Unfortunately, in July (2008) Krause admit-ted that his invention may
never hit the shelves as his team has been unable to overcome technical
problems.
