“And when I get that feeling, I want sexual healing”
Melanie Tilton
– Photo Editor –
The lights are low and the breathing is heavy. Anticipation is tangible as lips touch, tongues tangle, and fingers explore. Low moans and sharp intakes of breath add to the euphoria.
Sex is the most intimate human act. It is sensuous, tension releasing, stimulating and exhilarating. It brings many couples closer together, while tearing others apart. For some sex can be harmful, and at times deadly.
SCARY, TOUGH AND DANGEROUS
Sexually transmitted diseases are prominent in Saint Louis. According to the Saint Louis County Health website one in four sexually active people are infected with an STD.
STDs are spread through sharing of needles, IV use, any exchange of fluid (oral, anal, and vaginal sex) and sexual contact. Most STDs show no symptoms and can be transferred from partner to partner after only one contact.
There are two general types of STDs: those which are contracted through the exchange of bodily fluids such as the HIV/AIDS virus, hepatitis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Others can be exchanged by contact between vaginal skin like syphilis, herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV).
Many STDs are identifiable with testing, and are treatable when detected early. STD testing centers and Planned Parenthood offer testing services to men and women at reasonable fees. The best way to be safe is to be informed.
RUBBERS FOR ALL
As risky as sex can be young St. Louisans still get between the sheets.
So what can be done to prevent the transmission of an STD? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends male latex condoms used consistently and correctly for maximum protection from STDs.
According to the CDC website, laboratory tests demonstrate latex condoms to be an “essentially impermeable” barrier to STD pathogens. So when used properly, condoms are the best protection against STDs, second only to abstinence.
Just like milk, condoms have an expiration date. Check the condom’s date and any lubricant’s consistency before using it. General rule of thumb: if a condom has been in a wallet for over six months or if when you pinch the package your fingers touch, don’t use it!
Getting a condom on correctly will greatly reduce the possibility of infection, and pregnancy.
Practicing with a banana helps to perfect the ease with which a condom can be applied. Make sure to leave about a half inch to collect semen. Never unroll a condom before putting it on the penis; this will weaken the latex and make it difficult place on the penis.
SMOOTH SAILING
If using a condom seems a little foreign try a few tricks. If sensation is an issue, add a couple of drops of lubricant to the inside of the tip. The lubricant reduces the chance of a condom breaking keeping both partners satisfied.
Make sure to use a water-based lubricant like KY-jelly. An oil-based lubricant like Crisco or baby oil will cause the latex in the condom to deteriorate and greatly reduces the effectiveness.
Getting a condom on in the heat of the moment can sometimes be a little tricky and at times undesirable.
A great way to not forget a love glove is to include it in foreplay.
Condoms may seem a little embarrassing at times but they literally can save lives. Be informed and be safe.
