Good Catholics use condoms – lobby

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 8 – Sponsors of a new condom advert that has the Kenyan Catholic Church up in arms have refused to pull it down.

The American based Catholics for Choice (CFC), maintained that the message in the advert was necessary as it would ensure that individuals were protected from contracting the deadly HIV/AIDS virus.

Source: Here

Elderly Ugandans ashamed of buying condoms

This was revealed during a two-day workshop held in Kampala whose theme was preventing HIV/AIDS among the older persons and mitigating its impact in multi-generational households.

According to John Charles Orach, chairperson of National Network for Older Persons in Uganda, the pandemic among old people is on the rise in the country and this is because the ABC strategy is failing them.

Source: Here

California Group Mails Condoms to 12-Year-Olds

(CNSNews.com) – “Looking for free condoms?” the California Family Health Council (CFHC) asks.  “You have come to the right place!”

The CFHC, a non-profit organization, has set up a website advertising its “Condom Access Project,” where teens as young as 12 years old can receive free condoms in the mail.

Source: Here

Sex and Science – Why We Need Sex

We all go through that phase in life where we ask ourselves if we’re ready to have sex. Some people prefer to wait until they get married to have sex while other becomes sexually active even if they don’t have commented relationships, as long as they use some sort of protection like premium condoms. Bottom line is, sex is something that we will have to face. Many people are afraid of sex, mainly because they don’t understand it. They become uncomfortable when the topic is brought up and they tend to just steer away from it.

If you want to stop being scared of sex, the best thing to do is to open up to it. To make it easier to cope with the topic, most people place sex as a subject for science and nature.

Sex is survival

First, you need to understand that sex is natural. It’s one of our basic needs and our brain is wired to want sex because of our survival instincts. Sex is used to help us create offspring and continue our lineage. If you don’t have sex, how can you have kids? Our basic instincts will always drive us to find a partner, have sex and make children.

Psychological needs

Not only is it a physical need, it’s also psychological. As humans, we are naturally social and can’t live alone. We need to find a partner and sex will be a big part of that relationship. It helps us bond without partner and create an emotional lock with them. It can also help improve our self-esteem, minimize depression and keep us generally happy and in a good mood.

Hormonal thing

Our biological chemistry also depends on sex. It can help balance out our hormones which can affect both our physical and psychological well-being. Hormones excreted during sex can stay in our system of hours, sometimes even days, and keep the natural flow of things.

Health reasons

We all have read heath articles about the benefits of sex, for example boosting up our immune system, minimizing the chances of certain types of cancers, and even improving heath health. Most of these are actually true, giving you more reasons to enjoy sex.

Safety is a primary concern when it comes to sex, so use premium condoms and other contraceptives. Be responsible for yourself and your partner’s health and prevent infections and unplanned pregnancies.

Natural Cures for Common STDS

Although there are countless prescription and even over the counter drugs that you can use to cure sexually transmitted illnesses and infections, some people prefer to use natural medication. People have been using plants as medicine for thousands of years, in fact without these plants, modern pharmaceuticals would not exist. Below are a few common STDs and natural remedies for them.

HPV

Human papillomavirus or HPV is one of the most usual sexually transmitted infections. Because of this, our immune system usually has no problem protecting us and countering it. being diagnosed with this infection shouldn’t be a cause of panic, so don’t agree to harsh testing like treatments injected to the cervix or even biopsy, 70% of untreated cases actually clear out the infection within a few months. You can use the extract from St. John’s or St. Joan’s wort which contains Hypericum perforatum, a few times a day to clear out the infection.

Chlamydia

Another common infection, this is caused by a bacterium that stays in the cervix. Untreated, this can permanently damage the sex organs, cause infertility and pelvic pain. Most doctors would use antibiotics to cure this infection. Natural remedies would be extracts from yarrow, usnea, pau d’arco and Echinacea, taken 3 to 6 times per day together with an antibiotic. This helps remove deeper infections without any relapse, scarring and will not affect fertility.

Genital Herpes

About 1 in every 5 college students are diagnosed with genital herpes. The bad thing about this infection is that it can stay doormat and it’s resilient to drugs, meaning once you get infected, it says there forever. Infections like these are one of the main reasons why people should have safe sex, since infections could affect them for the rest of their lives. Thankfully, there are natural remedies that help tone down the symptoms. Lemon and hyssop balms can help soothe any active sores. You can use oil form St. John’s or St. Joan’s wort to cure spots that develop on the skin. Black currants can also keep the virus dormant and minimize the chances of outbreaks.

 People need to be aware and well knowledgeable about the consequences of being sexually active. The best treatment for STD is still prevention and safe sex. Multi-vitamins can also help keep out immune system from becoming weak and stop infections from spreading out. Many natural multi-vitamins are available in health shops and even drugstores. 

I Wear Pinky-Sized Condoms

Forget Magnums ... Eli Roth's strapping up with extra small rubbers these days ... thanks to a nasty bite from an OCTOPUS in Hawaii.

Eli tells TMZ, he recently overcame his fear of the ocean while on vacation in the Aloha State -- following a terrifying sea urchin attack in 2010 -- and decided to test the waters with a sea scooter expedition.

Source: Here

Stop Arresting New Yorkers for Carrying Condoms

Believe it or not, carrying a condom in New York could lead to your arrest. Why? Because it is legal for law enforcement to cite condom possession as evidence that a person engaged in prostitution. Targeting condoms, however, is ineffective at deterring prostitution and threatens public health. The practice also contributes to police discrimination against New York's LGBT community. Thankfully, the city's five District Attorneys can end the policy without having to wait for Albany lawmakers to fix the problem. So it's time to act.

Law enforcement is inadvertently discouraging sex workers from using protection without actually deterring them from engaging in prostitution. Multiple studies have found that sex workers are opting not to carry condoms for fear of being arrested. In addition to the thousands of formal prostitution prosecutions in New York City every year, the NYPD routinely seizes condoms from suspected sex workers without actually making arrests. These efforts at deterrence are not working: in one recent study, 20 percent of local sex workers who reported having their condoms seized said they had unprotected sex mere hours after their run-ins with the police. Every one of those cases represents a potential new infection of a sexually transmitted disease.

Source: Here

Millions of Chinese condoms exported to Ghana found faulty

Millions of condoms exported from China to Ghana have been found to be faulty and substandard, forcing the Chinese manufacturer to send a team to the African country to investigate.

Seven batches of Be Safe condoms from the Henan Xibei Latex Co Ltd in Henan Province exported to
Ghana were found to be substandard, official media here quoted a Ghana news agency report.

Source: Here

South Sudan State Runs Out of Free Condoms

BOR, SOUTH SUDAN — Health centers in South Sudan's Jonglei state have run out of free condoms, authorities said Friday, warning that the condom shortage could lead to a sharp rise in HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases in the region.

Peter Malith, the state’s HIV coordinator, said the condoms ran out because the United Nations' program that was distributing them through a grant from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis ran out of money.

Source: Here

New Yorkers ask cops to stop confiscating condoms

Clara Sierra was leaving a club after a nice night out when cops accused her of being a prostitute.

Sierra, 40, said she was trying to find her way back to New Jersey after leaving a Manhattan club when cops approached.

They assumed she was a prostitute, she said, and were sure their assumptions were confirmed when they found two condoms inside her bra.

Source: Here

S.F. law enforcement to stop using condoms to arrest, prosecute sex workers

Police and prosecutors in San Francisco will no longer use condoms as evidence when arresting and charging sex workers, according to an agreement announced Tuesday between The City’s law enforcement agencies and the Human Rights Commission.

The agreement followed a six-month trial period in which condoms were not used as evidence in cases. The moratorium "did not prove to have any substantial negative impacts on public safety and the quality of life of the residents of San Francisco," according to the commission.

Source: Here

3 Everyday Aphrodisiacs

We humans have a way of associating things to food. Some types of food are healthy of us while others are bad if you eat too much. We even link certain types of food with sex and performance. Although there really is not medical prof that these foods do enhance our sex drive, or even help encourage safe sex, many people believe in their effects. Most aphrodisiacs can actually be found at your local grocery store or supper market, even in your own pantry. Here are a few examples.

Chocolates

This commonly places first in the aphrodisiac list. Chocolates have always been known to stimulate our minds and bodies. It’s even become a yearly tradition to give your partner or special someone a box of chocolates during Valentine’s Day to show affection and love. Eating chocolates have proven to release endorphins, or the happy hormone, which gives us that good feeling. Although eating too much chocolate is bad, having some in moderation, especially dark chocolate which has not gone through too much processing, is actually good for your health.

Oyster

Oysters also make it to the top of the list of aphrodisiacs. Most people would serve oysters raw or half-cooked to make it more “potent”, but many dislike the taste so they actually cook it all the way. Fresh oysters are available in most seasons, however canned or processed oysters are easier to find and prepare.  Oysters are loaded with protein, calcium, magnesium, and iron. So whether or not they do have an impact on your sexual performance, they’re good for your diet.

Strawberries

Although they do have their peak seasons where you can get a whole basket of them for really cheap, strawberries are available all year round. What’s so great about these fruits is that you can cook and prepare them in a million ways, or you can just eat them fresh and raw. It can keep your heart healthy, increase your HDL or good cholesterol level, lower blood pressure, and help guard against most types of cancer.

These three foods that you can definitely just check out at your local grocery can help spice things up in the bedroom. Search for recipes and meals that will make you use all three ingredients and prepare a simple and elegant meal for you and your loved one. Keep in mind to always be safe and have safe sex to avoid any problems after your special night.

Teen sex shame bears a heavy price

Dao was waiting outside a minimart as her boyfriend was choosing a pack of condoms.

However, he quickly returned the pack to the shelf after a middle-aged man gave him a look of disgust.

That night Dao and her boyfriend went without. Dao fell pregnant but was not ready to have a child.

Her mother forced her to leave school after she realised her daughter was pregnant. Dao entered the workforce with limited school leaving qualifications. Now 23, she works as a cashier at a small supermarket to feed herself and her young son.

Source: Here

Ding Dong Unite Dancehall Acts In New Campaign For Safe Sex

Dancehall artiste Ding Dong known for hits such as ‘Holiday’ and ‘Gyalis’ has returned to the spotlight armed with a positive message for the youths.

The entertainer recently joined forces with award winning producer Markus Myrie of Markus Records on a new single titled ‘Protect Your Life’, that sees a re-invented Ding Dong advocating for Peace, Parental Counselling, Abstinence and Safe Sex; messages that are seldom highlighted in an industry known to glorify violence promiscuity and abrasive behaviour.

Source: Here

Why Are Teenagers Snorting Their Condoms?

Teenagers are snorting condoms up their noses and pulling them out of their mouths, on camera and on the Internet, according to a Huffington Post report that raises more questions than it answers.

A YouTube search for "condom challenge" yields more than 200,000 results, most of them NSFW due to gross noises. Is this the “gateway sexual activity”? Or is this what happens when there’s no sex ed? Is it an elaborate ruse to buy and possess condoms? And is this better or worse than the condom's intended purpose?

Source: Here

CA Considers Stocking Prisons with Condoms

In 2007, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California vetoed a measure that would have stocked the state’s prisons with condoms for inmate use. Now, the measure is back. A bill making its way through the Assembly would distribute condoms throughout the state prisons.

Condom distribution in prisons has already been put into practice in jails in major cities like New York, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C. The goal: to cut down on HIV infections, as well as pregnancy from conjugal visits.

Source: Here

Common STDs and their Signs and Symptoms

Although some people don’t take it to seriously, STDs or sexually transmitted disease are real problems. Some sexually active people are not fully aware of the consequences of STDs and don’t practice safe sex. Once infected, it could take some time for the symptoms to manifest and when they do, it could be too late.

However, some symptoms do show up during the early stage of the infection. These can tell you what type of STD it is and what you can expect. Below are three common STDs and their symptoms.

Chlamydia symptoms

This is an infection caused by bacteria that stays in the genital tract. It’s probably one of the most difficult STD to diagnose since its symptoms and signs are hard to spot during its early stages, especially amongst women. The signs usually start to manifest weeks after the actual infection and most people don’t really mind them since they are often mild and manageable.

Symptoms include:

Pain in the lower abdomen
Pain during sex
Painful urination
Discharge of fluid in sexual organ
Testicular pain

Gonorrhea symptoms

Like Chlamydia, it is also an infection in the genital tract. It’s first symptoms would commonly show during 2 to 10 days after the infection. However, there have been cases where the symptoms manifested months after the actual infection.

Symptoms include:

Thick, bloody or cloudy discharge from vagina or penis
Burning sensation or pain when urinating
Abnormal bleeding
Swollen and painful testicles
Anal itching
Painful bowel movement

Trichomoniasis symptoms

Trichomoniasis is caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, a parasite that stays in a person’s reproductive and urinary tack. This parasite only infects people who are already infected with an STD. although it does affect both men and women, men show no symptoms of infection.
Symptoms include:
Yellowish, greenish, white or clear vaginal discharge
Vaginal irritation or itching
Strong odor
Painful urination

Protection

The best way to stop an infection is to protect yourself. You should know how to practice safe sex and regularly have check-ups. You should also be aware of your partner’s health, it’s possible that they could be infected and are not aware of it. The simplest way to protect yourself is by using a condom, you can get these at any pharmacy or drugstore and they’re inexpensive. Condoms can help minimize the risk of an infection and can protect you from most type of sexually transmitted illnesses, even the life threatening ones.

Boston College Wants to Ban Free Condoms

Catholic colleges face a quandary when it comes to sexual health: should officials be realistic about the high (read: normal) levels of sex-having going on amongst their adult students or follow the Vatican's example and ignorantly preach safe sex via abstinence and prayer? Boston College has chosen the latter path.

Boston College Students for Sexual Health is an unofficial campus group that works with campus offices like residential life and health services to plan forums and programming around sexual health. The group often holds free condom giveaways near campus, and it keeps a list of about 15 dorm room "safe sites" where students can get free male and female condoms, lube, and other safe sex info. Helpful!

Source: Here

Origami Condoms: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

A small company called Origami Condoms is hoping to reinvent the traditional condom to provide users with a stress-free, pleasurable experience. The California-based company has already gotten praise for its out-of-the-box concept and will soon bring its product to the world. Here's what you should know.

Source: here

The New Rape Whistle: Electric Bras and Condoms With Teeth

I am sure the female engineering students in Chennai who designed this piece of lingerie did it with the best of intentions, following the national uproar that was generated by the rape and murder of a young woman on a bus in Delhi last December, and several other well-publicized rapes that have occurred in the country since then. (Not to mention around the world — just this week in Brazil, an American tourist was gang raped for six hours on a mini bus in Rio de Janeiro.)

The fact that the engineers felt it necessary to design such a bra shows that Indian women have little faith in the sweeping rape law the Indian government passed last month to protect women against sexual violence. India has never had trouble enacting laws, just enforcing them. And as every Indian knows, any law can be bypassed by greasing the right person’s palm. Why should the rape law be any different?

Source: Here

SciTech » Gaming » RH Bill 'Condom applicator slingshot' makes safe sex as easy as a firing squad

Talk about going in, guns ablaze.

Slingshot expert Joerg Sprave has risen to the challenge of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which has a standing offer of $100,000 to anyone who can make condoms easier or better to use.

"Nothing fascinates male human beings more than guns and sex. So when we combine both, you must see the huge potential this has," Sprave said.

Source: Here

Strange Organic Items in the Market

Since the “green revolution”, people are becoming more and more conscious about what they use and eat. Some people are become very organic and natural minded that they would only use items that are made from 100% natural material. It has also become easier to shift to this lifestyle since most markets and groceries offer organically grown fruits and vegetables and free range poultry and meat.

However, is there such as thing as too organic? There are some items in the market that you wouldn’t expect to be labeled as natural. Below are a few.

Organic natural fabrics

Silk and wool, are already natural. However, certain varieties are labeled as organic because the animals where these items were taken from did not get feed artificial feeds. Most producers, because of demand, would give animals feeds that would affect their hormones, making them grow faster and develop more raw materials. Some farmers would actually prefer to take time and invest in making sure the animal grows up as natural as possible, be given naturally grown grass and feed and let roam around the fields like how they are supposed to be domesticated and raised. Many say that items coming from these organically taken cared of animals are better in quality.

Organic condoms

These have actually been around for centuries. People have been using condoms as a form of protection, contraceptive and even for ritual rites. Organic condoms are made from sheep or lamb intestine. They feel so natural that you would even feel like you’re wearing a condom. The down side of these is that they can’t protect you from certain STDs. Natural condoms have small pores in them that can let bacteria and viruses to pass through the barrier. These condoms are also noticeably more expensive compared to regular latex condoms.

Organic pasta

You’d expect that pasta is already organic, since the main ingredients are just flower, water, eggs and seasonings. But there is a line of pasta that is labeled as organic. What makes this pasta special is that it’s made from artichoke flour instead of regular flour. Other than the ingredients used in organic pasta, it basically has the same taste and texture as regular pasta.

Some items are better used organic, but sometimes, producers could just be riding along the organic train just to get people to purchase their items. Whatever choice you make, just make sure you read the label and keep updated about ingredients that are not good for you so you’ll know what you’re buying.

How Abstinence-Only Sex Ed Is Driving Up STD Rates

Late last month I interviewed a woman who was 19 when she contracted the herpes simplex virus (HSV1) genitally while still identifying as a virgin. “No one ever told me you could contract an STD by [having] oral sex,” she said. “I thought I was being responsible, because I was saving myself for marriage…I come from a very religious background, and that’s what I was taught. Good girls don’t practice safe sex; they don’t have sex until marriage.”

Coming to terms with the realization that there were still risks, despite abstaining from vaginal intercourse, this young woman now knows she was lacking some basic knowledge that she needed to make informed decisions about her sexual health.

Source: Here

Bacon condoms (seriously)

Bacon condoms, yep.  An American company (God bless American innovation) has created the bacon condom.  It looks just like bacon, and if you use their bacon-flavored lubricant, it even tastes like bacon.

I’m not kidding.

The company, J&D’s, says that of the 5 billion condoms sold worldwide every year, none look or taste like bacon.  Until now.

Source: Here

Bhutan Makes Condoms Available To Buddhist Monks To Stop Spread Of STDs

NEW DELHI (RNS) Health officials in the tiny Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan are making condoms available at all monastic schools in a bid to stem the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV among young monks who are supposed to be celibate.

"We are making condoms freely available everywhere, even in monastic schools and colleges," Bhutan's minister of health, Zangley Drukpa, said in a phone interview. The ministry, he added, has formed a special action group to deal with STDs in monasteries.

Source: Here

New safe-sex app targets NYC teens

NEW YORK (PIX11)- Sex info sent directly to a teenagers phone.

The New York City Health Department is now marketing a new sexual health app to teenagers.

The “teens in NYC protection plus” app has info on everything teens need to know about safe sex.

It provides teens with locations of free clinics for sexually transmitted disease testing as well as directions on how to get the morning-after pill.

Source: Here

Enjoying Life – The Vegan Way

Some people become discourage when it comes to the vegan life. I mean, think about it, you can’t have meat, eat or use anything that contains animal by-products, and you constantly have to watch what you use so that you won’t accidently use something that’s not vegan friendly.

However, it’s really all not that bad. You get to be healthier, care about the environment more and you do your part in protecting animal rights. Going vegan isn’t all that boring. You just need to know what to do and how to have fun.

Dinning out

As a vegan, your diet will mainly consist of all natural, organic vegetables and fruits, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t go out with your friends and family for a night out. Try to look up restaurants near your area that serves 100% vegan friendly food. You can check the web or inquire at your local vegan society. They should be familiar of the places where you can have a nice vegan dinner and you could even introduce these meals to your loved once.

Healthy sex life

A regular latex condom won’t do for vegans since they contain a small amount of milk protein. When it comes to healthy and safe sex, vegan condoms are the best solution. Vegan friendly condoms are basically like latex condoms, only it doesn’t contain any animal byproducts. You can get vegan condoms in some pharmacies and drugstores but if you really want a good deal, you can go online and buy in bulk. It’s cheaper plus you get more choices.

Clubbing

It’s ok to enjoy music and dancing when your vegan, there’s no rule that’s stopping you to do so. However, make sure that what you’re drinking doesn’t contain any ingredients like eggs, milk, cream or anything else that could have processes from an animal. Same goes for cocktail food, stay off the Buffalo wings and pastries. Just ask for some gin and fresh juice and have fun with your friends.

Movies

Enjoy a night out at the movies, have some popcorn, but don’t put any butter on it. Salt and pepper will help make the popcorn taste better, or you can go of all natural popcorn. You should also watch what else you get at the snack bar. Some snacks could contain non-vegan friendly ingredients. As for the movie, you can watch anything you want. Nothing is stopping you.

Pope Benedict Portrait in Condoms Surprisingly Realistic

Here's a portrait of Pope Benedict, who recently stepped down as the Roman Catholic Church's Vicar of Christ on Earth.

It's made entirely out of condoms and reportedly took artist Niki Johnson a total of three years and 270 hours (split evenly between taking condoms out of their wrappers and then weaving them into a metal mesh).

Source: Here

Boston College Threatens Disciplinary Action Against Students Who Distributed Condoms

A group of students has been distributing contraceptives and information about safe sex in 18 Boston College dorm rooms for two years. But on March 15, the school decided it was time to put an end to the practice, and sent a letter threatening disciplinary action to the safe sex network, dubbed ‘Safe Sites.’ The letter said that the contraception distribution violated their “responsibility to protect the values and traditions of Boston College as a Jesuit, Catholic institution.”

Boston College itself offers contraception as part of its student health plan, as required by Massachusetts law. But students who run the Safe Sites program can’t follow their school’s precedent, and must discontinue distributing condoms, or face the school’s office of student conduct, the Boston Globe reports:

Source: Here

BC tells students to stop dispensing condoms

Boston College officials are threatening to take disciplinary measures against a group of students who are distributing condoms out of their dorm rooms, calling the act a violation of the university’s mission as a Catholic institution.

In a move that has the local chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union threatening ­legal action, BC officials sent a letter to students on March 15 demanding an end to student-run Safe Sites, a network of dorm rooms and other locations where free contraceptives and safe-sex information are available.

Source: Here

BC Attracts the ACLU’s Attention, Threatening to Punish Students for Distributing Condoms on Campus

In an effort “to protect the values and traditions of Boston College as a Jesuit, Catholic institution,” the administration has threatened to punish students handing out condoms on campus.

Boston College officials have demanded an end to Safe Sites, a network of 18 dorm rooms and other locations on or near campus that offer free contraceptives and safe sex pamphlets.

Source: Here

How to Increase Sexual Stamina in 5 ways

If you’re the type of guy who’s always looking for tips and exercises that can help you increase your sexual stamina, then there are a lot of things that you can do. Lasting just a few minutes may not be enough for you or your partner, and it can lead to a few frustrating and embarrassing situation.

Here are 5 tips to help you last and perform better in bed.

Eat the right food

Create a meal plan that will help increase your sexual endurance. We’ve all heard of aphrodisiacs and how they can help with our libido. There are a lot of foods that you can just pick up at your local grocery to help with sex. For example, blueberries, aside from being filled with anti-oxidants and vitamins, can help yoursexual endurance far better than potions or pills. Stick with natural and organic food like veggies and fruits. As much as possible, avoid fast food and processed foods since these don’t really contain enough vitamins and minerals that your body needs.

Breathe in and out 

Body tension kills enjoyable sex, so monitor how you breathe when you’re having sex. Tensions can cause you to have premature ejaculation, loss of erection and other sexual issues. You need to take deep, relaxing and slow breaths and focus on your breathing. Breathe in naturally and don’t make some kind of crazy rhythm.

Try out new condoms

Safe sex has always been a big issue, especially now that people are becoming more open about sex and being sexually active. The type of condom you use could make a big difference. Be creative and add flavors and even textures to your consideration the next time you buy a pack. Safe sex is also fun if you know what condom to use.

Exercise

Exercising does more that keeping you healthy and strong, it also lets you learn how to control your muscles and give you stamina for sex. Try the Kegel PC muscle workout. This helps you manage your ejaculation reflexes. Go online to research more about this exercise.

Toys

Some sex toys, like rings, can actually help you last longer in bed. Be open minded about using these toys. Most sex shops offer these but if you’re too shy to actually go into on, there are thousands on sex toys websites that you can visit.

DCHHS Says Schools Need Free Condoms, Explicit Sex Education

with teen birth rates Last year, we were fourth highest in the nation. And, in Dallas County, sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise among teenagers.

Teenagers are constantly being bombarded with sexually explicit messages, drowning out the message of abstinence says Dallas County Health Director Zachary Thompson.

Source: Here

WMC Countdown: EC Twins Talk Condoms and House Music

In this special edition of our "WMC Countdown", VIBE announces A BRAND NEW smokin' hot affair flaming up in Miami, this one, at SL Miami on Wednesday (March 20).

VIBE has been dropping the complete 411 on your favorite artists that will be taking over downtown Miami for Winter Music Conference 2013. As the days dwindle before we head down to the dance music mecca, VIBE brings you exclusive coverage and interviews to tide you over until the beats-bumpin', sun-blazing madness ensues. Hookin' you up as always, this time we are joining forces with StadiumRed and APA to bring readers the Perfecto and APA Pool Party at the Clevelander on March 22nd and Electric Splash at the Viceroy on 23rd.

Source: Here

MTV leaps a generation, lures GenerationX with condoms

MUMBAI: It took a long while coming. Almost 18 months of debates and deliberations after it initially came up with the idea, music channel MTV has forayed into the condom market in tie-up with JK Ansell, the maker of KamaSutra condoms.

Branded 'MTV Hardwear by KamaSutra' and available in 'bi-coloured' and 'big-head' variants, the condoms hit retail shelves in 25 cities across the country this week, marking MTV's latest and boldest brand extension.

Source: Here

Turning Vegan – 3 Simple Reasons Why you Should

To most, shifting to veganism is just a phase. The hype of how amazing this lifestyle is got pumped up because of media and celebrities who turned vegan.  But it’s definitely more than just a fad. Millions of people have successfully changed their mindset, diet and lifestyle after they turned vegan. Today, vegans make up a big percentage of the total population in the United States.

But why should you even consider turning vegan? Here are 3 simple reasons why you should think about it.

Do you care about your health?

Many people turn to veganism because of their health. Sure it’s not just all about the diet, but it does play a vital role. Vegans do not eat anything that’s made from animal byproducts and just stick with natural, and if possible, organic plant based food. They also stay away from processed foods that contain a lot of preservatives and chemicals that could harm the body. These days, you can find vegan substitutes for everything, from vegan “meat” replacements to vegan condoms.

Do you care about the environment?

Turning vegan also helps you become socially aware about pollution, recycling and using only what you need. The lifestyle helps you lessen your carbon footprint and take better care of the environment. Some vegans even make it a point to become self-sustainable, planting their own vegetables and fruits the organic way and recycling what they can to minimize trash and pollution. More vegans are learning how to become self-sustainable, and vegan communities are promoting this by offering classes on gardening, DIY recycling and more.  Most vegan items, such as vegan condoms, are easy to recycle and are biodegradable.

Do you care are about animals?

Farm animals that are raised for human consumption go through a lot of pain and suffering. Form the moment they are born, most of these animals are forced feed food that contains chemicals that are used to genetically modify them to make them bigger or meatier. Some animals that are used to harvest by-products like milk and eggs are over worked and are also given chemicals so that they can produce more. These animals do not deserve how they are being treated and many vegan communities and releasing press statements, articles, documentaries and movies about how they are being abused to educate people.

These 3 simple reasons should be enough for you to turn vegan. Although it is going to take a lot of sacrifices, it definitely is a better lifestyle.

FIRST-PERSON: 'Safe' sex? Hardly

ALEXANDRIA, La. (BP) -- Most words have clear and distinct definitions and for those that don't, context helps to delineate meaning. An example of a word with a definite denotation is "safe."

"Safe," according to the Concise Oxford English Dictionary, means "protected from or not exposed to danger or risk."

When the word safe is used to describe a product or activity, the message conveyed is that it will not cause harm to consumers or participants. Our government even goes to great lengths to ensure companies provide labels concerning a product's relative safety.

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How Come the Characters On Girls Never Use Condoms?

This week’s Girls presented us with two sex scenes, the fairly sexy recoupling of Marnie and Charlie, and the supremely uncomfortable union of Natalia and Adam. Both were depicted as impromptu moments of unrestrained passion, but it struck me as odd that neither couple even brought up the idea of protected sex beforehand. Now, I would consider myself sympathetic in general to dramatic films and television desiring to gloss over this moment, in order to depict a more elegant, romantic intercourse.

But for a show that often goes so far out of its way to portray the full range of sexual discomfort and awkwardness, Girls has been surprisingly hesitant to bring condoms into the mix.

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Gates Foundation wants to make safe sex more fun

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation thinks safe sex isn’t as much fun as it should be.

At least, that seems to be the gist of one request for a grant application from the world’s largest philanthropy as part of its Grand Challenges Explorations program. One of the goals for this round is to develop a better condom.

“It is a bit unusual,” said Stephen Ward, the program officer with the Gates Foundation administering the project.

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When Should you Talk to a Sex Therapist?

Having to talk to a therapist sound scary to most people, there’s still that link between having problems with your mind and therapy sessions. But people are becoming more open about it and having to talk to a shrink is a common fix to most problems. When it comes to issues within the bedroom, a sex therapist is the person you want to talk to. Many therapists specialize in sex therapy and you can find them in most cities and towns these days.

But when it is time to talk to one? Here are a few cues.

Not so normal daily life

If your issue is starting to affect how you perform at school or work, your relationships with other people and your decision making skills, then it might be time to talk to a sex therapist. For example, becoming a sex addict could be affecting your decisions on safe sex. Many people set up appointments for therapist only when they start to realize that their lives are already falling apart and that they need a lot of help copping with it and building it back up.

You just don’t understand it

Some people have a problem understanding their sexual problems and frustrations. A sex therapist can help you understand where these frustrations are coming from and what you can do to cope with them. They can help dig down to the core of the issues and guide you to finding an answer to your problems. Sex therapist can also help teach you more about sexuality, safe sex and a healthy sex life.

S.O.S

Many couples would take sex therapy sessions to help save their relationship. Many couples consider sex as a major component to their relationship, and having problems with it could shake the foundations. Sex therapy is also closely knit to family therapy. Some couples can’t start a family because of their sexual frustrations and problems.

You need to face it

It’s difficult to face it, but you have to deal with it at some point. Opening up about sexual problems is a difficult thing to do, especially for men, but once you start to acknowledge the issue, it’s going to be easier to handle and cope with it. The longer you keep it inside, the more difficult it’s going to be at the end. This way, you and the therapist can talk about what you can do to resolve the issue and live your life normally again.

It’s Not Safe Sex If You’ve Just Had the Smallpox Vaccine

One of my more memorable teachers used to love warning us about the hazards of sex.

No, this wasn’t in my 8th grade health class — this was during my first year of Infectious Diseases fellowship, and the teacher was one of our highly experienced attending physicians, now retired.

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Carrying condoms can get you arrested in NYC

New York police have apparently been stopping, searching and occasionally arresting minority or transgender women. Why? For, by their standards, looking like possible prostitutes ... and daring to carry condoms. 

And these unlucky women don't just get targeted, they also get their condoms confiscated. Why? The rationale is to discourage prostitution, but obviously it's just making prostitution more dangerous: A study released by the Sex Workers Project shows that about half the women whose condoms were taken away still engaged in sex work that night, now minus their condoms. 46 percent said they'd stopped carrying condoms altogether, fearing harassment.

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Women In New York Are Getting Arrested For Carrying Condoms

If a New York police officer thinks your skirt is too short and you happen to be carrying condoms, that's reportedly enough evidence to arrest you.

Molly Crabapple at Vice reports on a study released last year by the Sex Workers Project and the PROS Network. It reveals shocking stories of police stopping, searching, and hauling away women who are minorities or transgender and happen to have condoms in their purses

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Never Forget: The NYPD Arrests People Caught Carrying Condoms

The Village Voice and Vice both have feature stories this week all about how you can be arrested for carrying condoms, because they can be used by the police as evidence of prostitution. Which is, unfortunately, nothing new: it's a much criticized tactic that the NYPD have been using for years. The Voice does bring up an interesting question though: if a person is in possession of a condom distributed by NYC and they are then arrested with that condom used as major evidence, does it count as "entrapment"?

While it seems unlikely that this argument could fly (the Voice really just tiptoes around the idea), the Department of Health could try to put increased pressure on the city, considering it's making their program look bad. There is one major potential solution to this issue: the “No Condoms As Evidence Bill” was reintroduced in mid-January by Queens Democratic assemblywoman Barbara M. Clark and Brooklyn Democratic state senator Velmanette Montgomery, who first introduced the legislation in 1999.

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Tips on testing for latex allergies

Allergies are really annoying especially if you’re not aware of them. Some people are not so sure if they’re allergic to something because the symptoms are too unnoticeable and they don’t feel any different. However, allergies should still be taken seriously and one needs to be aware of the limitations that it can cause.

Some allergies, like latex allergies, might end up in a very embarrassing situation if you’re not careful. You could be using a latex condom that could trigger your allergies. Commonly, it only shows a couple of small rashes on the skin, but some cases might call for immediate medical assistance.

If you think you have latex allergies but are not sure, here are a few things that you can do.

Test other parts of your skin

The safest way to know if you’re allergic to latex is to test yourself. You can do a skin test which basically means you deliberately expose yourself to latex and check if it shows a reaction or not. Keep the test safe by doing it on the back of your hand or other area that you can easily reach and check. You might also want to ask assistance from a medical professional when preforming the skin test. Use regular latex condoms and skip special ones like natural rubber and vegan condoms.

Check your family and medical history

Other people who have the allergies tend to forget about it, so it’s a good idea to scan through your medical history and check if there were any case of allergies. You can also check any record of family members who have the allergy. Most allergies are genetic, and if one of your parents is allergic to latex, you might also be. Ask your mom or dad if they can remember.

Don’t use latex

If you’re still not sure if your allergic or not, then it’s just best to keep away from latex. There are other types of condoms in the market such as vegan condoms that don’t contain the protein found in common latex but does offer the same functions as one. Avoidance is key, so watch what you buy.

Whether you’re allergic or not, it’s also a good idea to have medication around. Common anti-histamine can help you ease down any allergic reaction so have one just in case. Take note of how severe the allergy as and how it affects you.

Players gamble with condoms, play sex-themed games at Condom Casino Tour

The two stacks of chips were about equally as high.

Macomb junior Blake Ryan and South Lyon freshman Derek Sawle were in a dead heat halfway through their game of Texas Cond’em.

Condoms were used as currency to gamble with. Ryan said he was an aggressive poker player, and that fact didn’t change now that he was playing for condoms.

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Condoms, a $12,000 Vacation, and Other Ludicrous Gifts in 9-year-old Quvenzhané Wallis’ Oscar Swag Bag

People get into acting for all sorts of reasons. Because they relish exploring the complexities of the human spirit; because they majored in Art History and are otherwise unemployable; because they lubba-lubba-love gift bags. Mostly it's the gift bags.

This Sunday night, after the lights have dimmed on the 85th Academy Awards and Oscar has crawled back into this trashcan for another year, many of America's most famous actors will get to pursue their passion for gift bags with $45,000 "Everyone Wins at the Oscars Nominee Gift Bags," provided by Distinctive Assets, a Los Angeles marketing firm.

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An African Pope Won't Change the Vatican's Views on Condoms and AIDS

Since Pope Benedict XVI did what had previously been unthinkable and almost unprecedented on February 11—submitting his resignation with what amounted to little more than a two-week notice—there has been speculation that the Catholic Church could see a non-European pope. "It's highly possible," New York City's Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan told the New York Times last week.

Much of the initial focus was on Latin America because the region "represents 42 percent of the world's 1.2 billion-strong Catholic population, the largest single block in the Church," as Reuters reported on the day of Benedict's announcement. "Two senior Vatican officials recently dropped surprisingly clear hints about possible successors. The upshot of their remarks is that the next pope could well be from Latin America."

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5 Tips on How to Kiss

A kiss can mean true love or it could just be something you’ll regret. Either way, knowing how to kiss is a big plus. Kissing is a big part of how we humans express our emotions, we kiss to show how we feel and some cultures treat kissing as a greeting.

When it comes to romantic kissing, you should have some idea about how to do it. Here are a few tips on how to kiss and how to make it a memorable one.

Fresh breath helps

Nobody wants to get kissed by someone who has breath that smells like fresh garlic cloves. A lot of people have bad breath, and you can have it too if you don’t regularly take care of your teeth and mouth. Make it a point to keep your teeth sparkling clean and your breath minty fresh. Your bad breath could ruin your kiss so keep it clean.

Make the moment last

The best way to do this is to keep your partner anticipating for more. Build a bit of tension between the both of you, tension that can only be broken with a passionate kiss. It’s kind of like that perfect and anxious moment in a good love story that makes it so exciting.  It could also be the moment that can lead to something more, like safe sex.

Look 

This is one of the hardest things to do for some people, but since your mouth is busy kissing and you can’t really express how you feel with words, then use your eyes. Your eyes can show a lot of expression, even looking at each other lovingly for a few seconds before you kiss can make it more meaningful. Some people can tolerate eye to eye contact because it makes them feel awkward, but try it and feel the emotions expressed by the other person through their eyes.

Let go

A passionate kiss is supposed to be a burst of emotions that you can’t control, so don’t even try to control the situation and just let things flow. The only reason you’d probably want to control a kiss is if you don’t want to go too far without talking about safe sex.

Only the ones you like

If would be pointless to give someone a passionate and loving kiss if you’re not really interested in them. Some people say that the kiss can make or break where a relationship is going to go. So if you feel sparks fly when their lips touch yours, then there’s probably something special between the both of you.

Condoms And Pleasure

This new girl I’m hanging out with won’t have sex with me unless I wear a condom. I can’t stand rubbers or the way they feel. Any advice?

My advice is to wear the rubber. What kind of sexologist would I be if I didn’t side with safe sex, respecting your partner’s boundaries and rooting for people to have consensual, pleasurable sex? She’s offering you a choice: a condom or the road. The road isn’t that interesting, and I suggest you go down the protected sex path. I encourage you to ask why she insists on condom use. Everyone has different reasons, and it may be that sexually transmitted infections or possible pregnancy may be concerns of hers.

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Oscars losers get $45K goody bags full of trips, coupons and condoms

The last time we got a goody bag, it had a free toothbrush from the dentist. There's a little more glitz — and a much bigger price tag — in the swag bags given to any nominees who don't win an Oscar.

Those bags are valued at more than $45,000 (more than some of us make in a year) and contain everything from trips to Australia to coupons for cosmetic procedures to … condoms? The bags are prepared by Distinctive Assets, which apparently had time to pick up a few boxes of Trojans before the ceremony. Interestingly, these gifts can't be endorsed by the Academy — otherwise, the recipients would have to pay taxes on them.

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Oscars Swag Bags Include $45,000 In Liquor, Condoms, Shoes And Travel Vouchers

When people say that it’s an honor to just be nominated what they really mean is “it’s an honor to get all of this free stuff while people pat me on the back.” The Oscar Nominees Gift Big, also known as the swag bag, contains more than $45,000 worth of liquor, travel vouchers, condoms and clothes.

According to Reuters, the Los Angeles-based marketing firm Distinctive Assets will soon be handing out its annual “Everyone Wins at the Oscars Nominee Gift Bag.” So if Jennifer Lawrence doesn’t win for Silver Linings Playbook, she’ll still have a relatively good night.
Read more at http://www.inquisitr.com/534814/oscars-swag-bags-include-45000-in-liquor-condoms-shoes-and-travel-vouchers/#azXJLwOoDhQ8za6A.99

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Natural Remedies for STDs

One of the most embarrassing things that you can probably ask for at the pharmacy is a cure for an STD. Nobody wants to talk about it, but there are thousands of people who get infected and diagnosed with STDs every day, even after all the safe sex campaigns communities push to their residents. Some people would say that they rather “wait it out” then go to the pharmacy to get medications, but an untreated STD will cause a lot of problems the longer it stays active in the body.

You can treat some STDs with home remedies, although these homemade treatments are not as effective as prescription medication, it does help soothe the pain and minimize symptoms.  Below are the top 3 homemade remedies for STDs.

Garlic 

Garlic has always been used as a medical plant. It has natural antiseptic and antiviral properties that help naturally clear out your system. What some people would do is cook the garlic and grind it with water to make a paste. They would ether eat it or apply it to the area that has boils and spots. If this sounds like too much work, you can always just buy garlic supplements at your local health and wellness store. These are usually places in the organic or natural medicine isle.

Cranberry Juice

In some STDs, especially the ones that also affect the urinary tract or bladder, cranberry juice is the best natural remedy. Vitamins and nutrients found in the juice can help kill off bacteria that cause that stinging pain you feel if you have a urinary tract infection. If you can, get fresh cranberry juice, most supermarkets offer these at their juice bar. However if you can’t find fresh cranberry juice, get the ones that don’t contain or has little added preservatives and sugars.

Yogurt

It might sound a bit strange but yogurt is a main ingredient when it comes to home remedies. Many health and diet experts would advise you to eat yogurt, and there is a reason behind that. Most yogurts contain a good amount of good bacteria that can help minimize the number of bad bacteria in the body. It can also help restore the body’s natural PH level, which is important in treating STDs.

These natural remedies are just a few that you can try to help minimize your STD symptoms. Still, it’s best to talk to a doctor about your case and see what treatment is better. Remember, prevention is still the best way to prevent STDs so have safe sex and be responsible.

Talking easily about condoms

“I was amazed to see people talking easily about condoms,” says Sagar Budhathoki from youth peer education network Y-PEER Nepal, about his first sexual and reproductive rights training session a few years ago. “In one of the sessions there was a demonstration, and I was shy touching the condoms, and everybody laughed. I didn’t even know what reproductive health was.”

Sagar, a 26-year old student from Lalitpur, Nepal, has come a long way since then. Today he is a regional co-ordinator on sexual and reproductive health and rights issues for Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal.

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Remember the condoms ...

Under a marquee at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), pink and blue condoms are spread out across the table. A demonstration on how to use a female condom does not seem to interest the group of young females who are watching. Both male and female students seem to prefer the colourful condoms over the female condoms, which have a less appealing appearance.

“I don’t trust the female condom because I have heard that you have to put it in eight hours before sex. It looks uncomfortable,” says 22 year old Sheila Matsetela, a BCom Finance student at UJ.

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