Effects of Time on Sex It is important to remember that you need good rest, preferably good sleep, in order to have good sex. Without good sleep you end up not having good sex or maybe no sex at all. Time plays a role in our sex life. While sex might not be every day, […]
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HPV, Cervical Cancer and YOU What is HPV: The Human Papillomavirus? Human Papillomavirus is commonly referred to as HPV. It is a vast group of viruses potentially leading to warts, genital warts and, in worst cases, cancer. HPVs are the large group of easily transmitted viruses that potentially can cause cancer. However, the infection can […]
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National Condom Week runs from February 14th to the 21st, so it’s time to celebrate a great, effective contraceptive—the condom!
Condoms are a barrier method of contraception, meaning they block semen from entering the vagina. They can be used during sex (vaginal, but also oral and anal) to reduce the chance of both unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are the only contraceptive that protects against both! But here’s a question—when having sex, whose responsibility is it to bring condoms?
Ideally, everyone’s! A common misconception is that only the partner with a penis needs to worry about providing a condom, but this is not a good practice. Your partner’s condom could break or be expired. They could forget to bring one. You may have a latex allergy and need a condom made of a material you can tolerate. Or, what if your partner only brought one and you end up needing an additional condom?
By having condoms, even if you don’t plan to wear one yourself, you can help provide for safer sex. Plus, while most people think of external condoms, which are worn on the penis, there are also internal condoms, which can be used in the vagina or anus.
If being prepared with a condom is so important for safer sex, why the thinking that only one partner should be responsible for having a condom? It can often stem from stigma and judgment; some people think having condoms means you’re “looking for sex” in a derogatory, slut-shaming way. This is often aimed at those who are female-identified. Yet those who identify as male are often praised for having condoms. This is an outdated double standard.
No matter your gender, if you plan to have sex, it’s best to be prepared so you can have safer sex.
Condoms are available at supermarkets, pharmacies, online and sometimes for free or at a low cost at health clinics or your doctor’s office. There is no age requirement to purchase them.
By having a condom when you plan to have sex, you can help create safer sex for both you and your partner. You can help prevent unintended pregnancies and STIs, so why not have a condom on hand?
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Exploring the Diverse Adult Scene in Canada’s Largest City Toronto, Canada’s vibrant metropolis, is known for its cultural diversity and lively nightlife. Among the city’s many opportunities, the adult entertainment scene stands out for its variety and quality of experiences. Toronto is a must-see destination for those seeking moments of pleasure and relaxation. Exclusive Adult […]
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Happy New Year! Did you know that January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month? What do you know about cervical cancer and how the HPV vaccine can help prevent it?
Cervical cancer is the growth of cancer cells in the cervix, which connects the uterus to the vagina. It’s the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, cervical cancer can be prevented by getting vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. Condoms can provide some protection but HPV can still spread via skin-to-skin contact, even with condoms.
There are more than 200 strains of HPV, most of which are not harmful. The vast majority of sexually active people will contract HPV at some point, and, in most cases, the body’s immune system clears the virus without causing any problems. Most people will not even be aware that they have it.
However, in addition to the low-risk strains, there are twelve high-risk strains of HPV, some of which are responsible for most cases of cervical cancer.
The HPV vaccine is designed to protect you from the strains of HPV that are most likely to cause cancer. In the U.S., Gardasil-9 is the HPV vaccine administered.
HPV vaccination could prevent more than 90 percent of cancers caused by HPV from ever developing. This is an estimated 33,700 cases in the U.S. every year, according to the CDC!
The vaccine currently protects against nine types of HPV, including the two (HPV 16 and 18) that cause about 70 percent of cervical cancers. It also prevents types that: lead to genital warts, cause another 20 percent of cervical cancers, cause anal cancers and cause mouth and throat cancers.
The vaccine is most effective when given before a person is exposed to HPV, which is why it’s recommended before someone chooses to become sexually active. The recommendation is typically age 11 or 12. Though this is the case, getting vaccinated even after you become sexually active can reduce the risk of developing HPV-related cancers or genital warts. People can currently get the vaccine until age 26, and even up to 45 in some cases (a health care provider can help determine if it’s right for you).
The HPV vaccine is a safe and highly effective tool in cancer prevention, but not everyone is getting it. Only around 61 percent of teens are vaccinated against HPV in the U.S. and while rates of vaccination had been rising, in recent years they have stalled, according to the CDC. Unfortunately, barriers prevent young people from receiving the vaccine.
One obstacle is lack of access to health care, either via distance, lack of transportation or otherwise. As far as cost, most private insurance plans cover it. For those without insurance, there are resources to help.
Another barrier is stigma and misinformation surrounding sex and sexual health. Some parents worry that getting their child the HPV vaccine would encourage sexual behavior, but many studies have disproved this. The choice to engage in sexual activity is much more complex than a vaccine, and the vaccine does not promote sexual behavior. It does, however, prevent many cancers and cases of genital warts.
Finally, people assigned male at birth (AMAB) have low rates of HPV vaccination. Many believe that the vaccine is only for people with cervixes. This is false. It’s for everyone and prevents not just cervical cancer, but also vaginal, penile, anal, throat and mouth cancers, among others. In addition, if you are AMAB, getting vaccinated protects your sexual partners, along with yourself.
We can take small actions to create big change! The main way is to educate ourselves and others. It’s always a good idea to ask a health care provider any questions you have about the vaccine and HPV in general.
Another important duty we teens have is to decrease stigma surrounding sex and sexual health. HPV is really common. Talking openly about HPV and other STIs encourages people to ask questions, learn more and feel less ashamed. Have conversations with friends and family members about HPV.
Overall, the HPV vaccine is life-saving and has decreased HPV infection by 88 percent in teen girls, according to the CDC. Pretty impressive.
This factsheet has more information about the HPV vaccine.
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Understanding Barriers to Intimacy and Desired Outcomes Currently experiencing communication issues with my partner, low self-esteem affecting my confidence in the bedroom, and struggling with past trauma that hinders emotional connection during intimate moments. Seeking therapy to improve communication, boost self-confidence, and address trauma to rebuild emotional connection and intimacy with my partner Interactive Self-Assessment […]
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Discover a New Frontier in Sexual Wellness and Education with Debra Shade. Debra Shade has pioneered an unparalleled sanctuary for mental health and modern sex education, offering a rare and transformative approach to understanding pleasure, intimacy, and healthy sexuality. She has officially been given the honor of being the first Pleasure Education and Healing […]
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