Thoughts from Courtney Bauer
Gonorrhea is in the class of bacterial sexually transmitted infections. Generally bacterial STIs are easily curable with antibiotics. However they are dangerous if left untreated but, treatment isn’t usually a problem until now. There are now strains of Gonorrhea that only one class of antibiotics will treat! In the past it was able to be treated with multiple classes of antibiotics. The bacteria that causes Gonorrhea has become resistant to all classes of antibiotics except one.
In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control took samples of gonorrhea from people who tested positive for it and found that 27% of those samples were resistant to three different classes of antibiotics. Gonorrhea historically has shown a trend in becoming resistant to antibiotics. So it is likely that eventually gonorrhea will develop a resistance to the last class of antibiotics that can treat it.
Gonorrhea will always remain on the list of bacterial STIs because it is caused by bacteria but, it will not always be curable. This gradual resistance to antibiotics could happen to all bacterial STIs. So make sure that you are always using protection when engaging in sex!
Remember FREE CONDOMS are always available at SBI Health Education in Hayes Annex C on South Campus. Stock up on a summer supply before you go home because gonorrhea doesn’t take a vacation even if you do.
Showing posts with label condom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label condom. Show all posts
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Don't think there is a good birth control for you?
Submitted by Kristi Dierolf, SBI Health Education Intern
That’s probably not true. There are numerous types of birth controls available to women. Before I get into what these methods are, it’s pretty important to note that contraceptives (birth control) methods do not prevent you from STIs! (Sexually transmitted infections), remember to still use a condom or another type of barrier method!
In case you don’t know, most contraceptive methods work by inhibiting ovulation (so, no egg is released!), thickening the cervical mucus, which makes it harder for the sperm to enter the uterus, and causes possible changes in the endometrial lining, which basically creates an unfavorable environment for pregnancy to occur!
The most common side effects for women taking hormonal contraceptives are breast tenderness, change in menstrual cycle, and possible weight changes. These side effects generally last up to 3 months, but vary depending on your method. Be sure to ask your provider for any side effects!
The most commonly known birth control is the pill, which comes in multiple varieties. Basically the pill works with your cycle, for the most part on a 28 day cycle. You’ll take 21 “active” pills, and then 7 “inactive” or placebo pills. You get your period the days you’re taking the inactive pills! There are different oral contraceptives like yaz and loestrin, which is 24 active pills, and 4 inactive, so you should have a shorter period with those. Now there is also seasonal/seasonique which are designed to give you your period only 4 times a year! Once every three months! Just remember, you want to take the pill at the same time everyday or it could lose its effectiveness!
Then we have the Nuvaring. The nuvaring is a slender and flexible vaginal ring that you insert manually. You insert the ring and leave it in place for 3 weeks, after the 3 weeks is up you take the ring out for one whole week, and during that time you should get your period. One of the greatest things about the ring, is you can’t feel it (And no, neither can your partner)! If you do feel it at all, it probably means you didn’t push it back far enough, so gently use your fingers to push it back, but don’t worry there is no chance of pushing it to far back or losing it, your cervix is going to prevent that from occurring.
Next, the Ortho-Evra patch. The patch is a thin beige square patch that you can wear anywhere besides your hands/feet and breasts. You put a new patch on once a week, for 3 straight weeks, on the 4th week, do not put another patch on, and that’s when you should get your period! Just a reminder, whenever you’re changing your patch, try not to put it in the same spot, just to avoid irritation! If you use the patch correctly, and avoid putting lotion by it, you don’t have to worry about the patch falling off.
The shot! The Depo-Provera shot is an injection that you get 4 times a year, given in either your upper arm, or buttock. Unlike the other birth controls I’ve mentioned, the shot does not regulate your period! It’s only protecting you from pregnancy. The shot is a good idea for women who don’t want to have to keep track of something every day (like the pill). However, since the shot is given only 4 times a year, your doctor may not prescribe you the shot unless you have previously used some other form of hormonal contraceptives, because you want to be sure you won’t have any serious side effects.
And finally, the IUD- the intra-uterine devices. The IUD is a plastic T shape device that gets inserted into the uterus by a physician. The IUD is the most effect form of contraceptive. There are currently two types, the Mirena, and the Paraguard. The Mirena can stay in place in your uterus for up to 5 years, and the paraguard for up to 12! Like I said, the device is inserted by a physician and removed by a physician, not ever by yourself! After the physician inserts the IUD you will come back a few months later just to make sure everything’s ok. There are some rare side effects to the IUD but I think they are important to note. There is an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, very rarely the IUD can be pushed through the wall of the uterus. Pelvic infection can occur after the insertion (to avoid this, use a condom for about a month after insertion) and there is a possibility of scarring during insertion which can lead to sterility.
There is a lot more information for each form of birth control so if you have any questions please feel free to ask! Make sure to talk with your doctor to see what type of contraceptive method is best for you.
That’s probably not true. There are numerous types of birth controls available to women. Before I get into what these methods are, it’s pretty important to note that contraceptives (birth control) methods do not prevent you from STIs! (Sexually transmitted infections), remember to still use a condom or another type of barrier method!
In case you don’t know, most contraceptive methods work by inhibiting ovulation (so, no egg is released!), thickening the cervical mucus, which makes it harder for the sperm to enter the uterus, and causes possible changes in the endometrial lining, which basically creates an unfavorable environment for pregnancy to occur!
The most common side effects for women taking hormonal contraceptives are breast tenderness, change in menstrual cycle, and possible weight changes. These side effects generally last up to 3 months, but vary depending on your method. Be sure to ask your provider for any side effects!
The most commonly known birth control is the pill, which comes in multiple varieties. Basically the pill works with your cycle, for the most part on a 28 day cycle. You’ll take 21 “active” pills, and then 7 “inactive” or placebo pills. You get your period the days you’re taking the inactive pills! There are different oral contraceptives like yaz and loestrin, which is 24 active pills, and 4 inactive, so you should have a shorter period with those. Now there is also seasonal/seasonique which are designed to give you your period only 4 times a year! Once every three months! Just remember, you want to take the pill at the same time everyday or it could lose its effectiveness!
Then we have the Nuvaring. The nuvaring is a slender and flexible vaginal ring that you insert manually. You insert the ring and leave it in place for 3 weeks, after the 3 weeks is up you take the ring out for one whole week, and during that time you should get your period. One of the greatest things about the ring, is you can’t feel it (And no, neither can your partner)! If you do feel it at all, it probably means you didn’t push it back far enough, so gently use your fingers to push it back, but don’t worry there is no chance of pushing it to far back or losing it, your cervix is going to prevent that from occurring.
Next, the Ortho-Evra patch. The patch is a thin beige square patch that you can wear anywhere besides your hands/feet and breasts. You put a new patch on once a week, for 3 straight weeks, on the 4th week, do not put another patch on, and that’s when you should get your period! Just a reminder, whenever you’re changing your patch, try not to put it in the same spot, just to avoid irritation! If you use the patch correctly, and avoid putting lotion by it, you don’t have to worry about the patch falling off.
The shot! The Depo-Provera shot is an injection that you get 4 times a year, given in either your upper arm, or buttock. Unlike the other birth controls I’ve mentioned, the shot does not regulate your period! It’s only protecting you from pregnancy. The shot is a good idea for women who don’t want to have to keep track of something every day (like the pill). However, since the shot is given only 4 times a year, your doctor may not prescribe you the shot unless you have previously used some other form of hormonal contraceptives, because you want to be sure you won’t have any serious side effects.
And finally, the IUD- the intra-uterine devices. The IUD is a plastic T shape device that gets inserted into the uterus by a physician. The IUD is the most effect form of contraceptive. There are currently two types, the Mirena, and the Paraguard. The Mirena can stay in place in your uterus for up to 5 years, and the paraguard for up to 12! Like I said, the device is inserted by a physician and removed by a physician, not ever by yourself! After the physician inserts the IUD you will come back a few months later just to make sure everything’s ok. There are some rare side effects to the IUD but I think they are important to note. There is an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, very rarely the IUD can be pushed through the wall of the uterus. Pelvic infection can occur after the insertion (to avoid this, use a condom for about a month after insertion) and there is a possibility of scarring during insertion which can lead to sterility.
There is a lot more information for each form of birth control so if you have any questions please feel free to ask! Make sure to talk with your doctor to see what type of contraceptive method is best for you.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Is it true about......
Guest Comment by SBI Health Education intern, Danielle O.
Does the birth control pill cause cancer? Can an IUD cause painful sex? Does the “withdrawal” or “pulling out” method really work? Are two condoms better than one?
Today, it is hard to tell the facts from myths as far as the everyday forms of birth control go. Many people of all ages share the same misconceptions, or simply just do not know the answers to some of the questions they may have regarding the appropriate form and proper use of contraceptives. Indeed, due to the large and varying options available to us today, it is easy to get confused or misinformed.
The common misconception that keeps many women from using the pill, which is a highly effective method, is the fear that cancer is linked to the use. According to Steven Goldstein, MD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at NYU School of Medicine in New York, “ the pill is not a cancer-causing agent, but a cancer-reducing agent, with good science to show that with continued pill use there’s a dramatic and continued reduction in the incidence of ovarian cancer, and even uterine cancer.”
Among the concerns listed above, questions about the intrauterine device (IUD) are quite common. Along with the frequently asked questions regarding intercourse, clients also ask if there if is interference of tampon use, and if it's possible for the device to become dislodged or move out of place. Research has shown that the answer is 'no.' Erika Banks, MD, associate residency director of obstetrics and gynecology at Montifiore Medical Center, Bronx, N.Y states, “an IUD will not interfere with tampon use, and, when properly inserted, it should not get dislodged during sex or cause you any pain, and your partner should not feel it either."
Continuing on with the misconceptions, one of the most popular is the withdrawal, or pulling out method. According to a study from the Guttmacher Institute, the effectiveness of the withdrawal method is about 96 percent. This respectfully speaking is contingent on the person’s methods just the same in comparison to proper use of condoms.
As for the idea that two condoms may be better than one, the friction of wearing two at the same time will create enough friction to cause both of the condoms to break or tear. As long as the condom is being used properly (expiration date checked, there is an air pocket, it is worn properly, and there is enough room left in the reservoir tip) one condom is what is approved and deemed effective.
It’s easy to see why just a few of the mentioned myths and other misconceptions about contraceptives are so considerable and forthrightly believable if not informed otherwise. Birth control is one of the most talked about topics, and yet people are still not getting the proper facts and information, and sometimes it all too confusing between myth and fact when it comes to sexual health.
Sources:
Steven Goldstein, MD, professor, obstetrics and gynecology, NYU School of Medicine. Margaret Polaneczky, MD, associate clinical professor, Weill Medical College, Cornell University, New York. Erika Banks, MD, associate director of residency, Montifiore Medical Center, New York.
Does the birth control pill cause cancer? Can an IUD cause painful sex? Does the “withdrawal” or “pulling out” method really work? Are two condoms better than one?
Today, it is hard to tell the facts from myths as far as the everyday forms of birth control go. Many people of all ages share the same misconceptions, or simply just do not know the answers to some of the questions they may have regarding the appropriate form and proper use of contraceptives. Indeed, due to the large and varying options available to us today, it is easy to get confused or misinformed.
The common misconception that keeps many women from using the pill, which is a highly effective method, is the fear that cancer is linked to the use. According to Steven Goldstein, MD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at NYU School of Medicine in New York, “ the pill is not a cancer-causing agent, but a cancer-reducing agent, with good science to show that with continued pill use there’s a dramatic and continued reduction in the incidence of ovarian cancer, and even uterine cancer.”
Among the concerns listed above, questions about the intrauterine device (IUD) are quite common. Along with the frequently asked questions regarding intercourse, clients also ask if there if is interference of tampon use, and if it's possible for the device to become dislodged or move out of place. Research has shown that the answer is 'no.' Erika Banks, MD, associate residency director of obstetrics and gynecology at Montifiore Medical Center, Bronx, N.Y states, “an IUD will not interfere with tampon use, and, when properly inserted, it should not get dislodged during sex or cause you any pain, and your partner should not feel it either."
Continuing on with the misconceptions, one of the most popular is the withdrawal, or pulling out method. According to a study from the Guttmacher Institute, the effectiveness of the withdrawal method is about 96 percent. This respectfully speaking is contingent on the person’s methods just the same in comparison to proper use of condoms.
As for the idea that two condoms may be better than one, the friction of wearing two at the same time will create enough friction to cause both of the condoms to break or tear. As long as the condom is being used properly (expiration date checked, there is an air pocket, it is worn properly, and there is enough room left in the reservoir tip) one condom is what is approved and deemed effective.
It’s easy to see why just a few of the mentioned myths and other misconceptions about contraceptives are so considerable and forthrightly believable if not informed otherwise. Birth control is one of the most talked about topics, and yet people are still not getting the proper facts and information, and sometimes it all too confusing between myth and fact when it comes to sexual health.
Sources:
Steven Goldstein, MD, professor, obstetrics and gynecology, NYU School of Medicine. Margaret Polaneczky, MD, associate clinical professor, Weill Medical College, Cornell University, New York. Erika Banks, MD, associate director of residency, Montifiore Medical Center, New York.
Monday, December 21, 2009
MAKING CONDOMS FUN AND SEXY!
Guest Comment by Chris S., SBI Health Education Intern
If you think that condoms can't be fun or sexy, then think again. People often say that they don’t like using condoms when having sex because it ruins the mood, reduces the sensitivity and pleasure, or they are just plain boring. These are poor excuses.
There are a variety of ways to make condom use fun and entertaining. One common problem many people have is that they rush putting a condom on during foreplay or just before sex. They feel that they need to hurry or the mood will be lost. There is no need to rush!
(1) Guys - Take your time when placing a condom on – take in the moment and make it sexy and appealing. Your partner will enjoy the wait and anticipation as you take your time placing the condom on in front of them.
(2) Try having your partner place the condom on – this way, you both are engaged in the process. They are able to place the condom on while you get to enjoy the experience.
(3) Although fun, there are varying opinions on placing the condom on your partners penis with your mouth. Here is a link how: http://www.ehow.com/how_2245684_put-condom-using-mouth.html (The danger is possibly tearing or cutting the condom in the process.)
If you think that condoms don’t provide enough pleasure or that they’re boring in general, check out this site: 10 top and sexy ways to use condoms. One of those ways includes using textured condoms, such as ribbed or vibrating condoms. Even the site Go Ask Alice (Columbia University) gives informational advice to the effectiveness and possible choices of textured condoms.
Condoms don’t have to be boring! There are numerous ways to make condoms and sex fun, sexy, and entertaining. What are you waiting for?
If you think that condoms can't be fun or sexy, then think again. People often say that they don’t like using condoms when having sex because it ruins the mood, reduces the sensitivity and pleasure, or they are just plain boring. These are poor excuses.
There are a variety of ways to make condom use fun and entertaining. One common problem many people have is that they rush putting a condom on during foreplay or just before sex. They feel that they need to hurry or the mood will be lost. There is no need to rush!
(1) Guys - Take your time when placing a condom on – take in the moment and make it sexy and appealing. Your partner will enjoy the wait and anticipation as you take your time placing the condom on in front of them.
(2) Try having your partner place the condom on – this way, you both are engaged in the process. They are able to place the condom on while you get to enjoy the experience.
(3) Although fun, there are varying opinions on placing the condom on your partners penis with your mouth. Here is a link how: http://www.ehow.com/how_2245684_put-condom-using-mouth.html (The danger is possibly tearing or cutting the condom in the process.)
If you think that condoms don’t provide enough pleasure or that they’re boring in general, check out this site: 10 top and sexy ways to use condoms. One of those ways includes using textured condoms, such as ribbed or vibrating condoms. Even the site Go Ask Alice (Columbia University) gives informational advice to the effectiveness and possible choices of textured condoms.
Condoms don’t have to be boring! There are numerous ways to make condoms and sex fun, sexy, and entertaining. What are you waiting for?
Monday, December 7, 2009
The OTHER condom......
The Female Condom
Guest comment by Olympia J., SBI Health Education intern
There are three types of male condoms: latex, polyurethane, and natural skin sheath. The male condom is everywhere from local pharmacies, to doctor offices, schools and health fairs. There is also the female condom which is made primarily from polyurethane and sometimes from latex. When used properly, the female condom is effective at preventing pregnancy, transmission of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). What makes the female condom appealing is that it gives women more control over their sexual health instead of depending solely on a male. However, none of these potential benefits can be realized because of the scarcity of the female condom. Some of us may have heard of the female condom but have never seen, read about, or bought one. How many of us have gone into a pharmacy and seen the countless boxes of male condoms varying in color, flavor and size? Now, how many of us have gone into a pharmacy and have seen countless boxes of the female condom? Exactly! You don’t. Now is time to globalize and advertise the female condom!
So let’s get started with Female Condom 101: The general structure of the female condom is a pouch that contains an inner ring and an outer-ring. Female condoms are clear colored and are generally the same shape and size. There are two approved types of female condoms in the United States, the FC and the FC 2. Here is how to use a female condom:
For instructions with images, check out Female Health Company's instructional video
1) Squeeze the inner ring with your thumb and index fingers
2) Get into a comfortable position either by squatting, laying down, or lifting up your leg (similar to inserting a tampon)
3) Push female condom as far back as it can go (it will be stopped by your cervix), make sure it is securely positioned between the pelvic bone and the cervix.
4) The outer ring will hang outside the vagina. Make sure it covers the labia and that your partner enters through the outer-ring.
5) When you are done, grab the outer ring, twist the pouch, pull out the female condom and discard of it (although the female condom looks sturdy, IT IS NOT APPROVED FOR REUSE!)
Information from:
http://www.fwhc.org/birth-control/femalecondom.htm
http://www.avert.org/female-condom
Guest comment by Olympia J., SBI Health Education intern
There are three types of male condoms: latex, polyurethane, and natural skin sheath. The male condom is everywhere from local pharmacies, to doctor offices, schools and health fairs. There is also the female condom which is made primarily from polyurethane and sometimes from latex. When used properly, the female condom is effective at preventing pregnancy, transmission of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). What makes the female condom appealing is that it gives women more control over their sexual health instead of depending solely on a male. However, none of these potential benefits can be realized because of the scarcity of the female condom. Some of us may have heard of the female condom but have never seen, read about, or bought one. How many of us have gone into a pharmacy and seen the countless boxes of male condoms varying in color, flavor and size? Now, how many of us have gone into a pharmacy and have seen countless boxes of the female condom? Exactly! You don’t. Now is time to globalize and advertise the female condom!
So let’s get started with Female Condom 101: The general structure of the female condom is a pouch that contains an inner ring and an outer-ring. Female condoms are clear colored and are generally the same shape and size. There are two approved types of female condoms in the United States, the FC and the FC 2. Here is how to use a female condom:
For instructions with images, check out Female Health Company's instructional video
1) Squeeze the inner ring with your thumb and index fingers
2) Get into a comfortable position either by squatting, laying down, or lifting up your leg (similar to inserting a tampon)
3) Push female condom as far back as it can go (it will be stopped by your cervix), make sure it is securely positioned between the pelvic bone and the cervix.
4) The outer ring will hang outside the vagina. Make sure it covers the labia and that your partner enters through the outer-ring.
5) When you are done, grab the outer ring, twist the pouch, pull out the female condom and discard of it (although the female condom looks sturdy, IT IS NOT APPROVED FOR REUSE!)
Information from:
http://www.fwhc.org/birth-control/femalecondom.htm
http://www.avert.org/female-condom
Thursday, June 18, 2009
CONDOMS! CONDOMS! CONDOMS!
The latex condom is pretty amazing! It’s one of the only forms of birth control that can protect you from both pregnancy and STDs. And when used properly each and every time, condoms are up to 98 percent effective at keeping you safe! Check out this video to see how condoms are made and tested:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u22BbGNzLWo
Did you see how big a condom can get when inflated? Some guys will give excuses for not wanting to wear a condom like they’re too tight or I don’t fit into condoms. But guys complaining about condoms are full of hot air! Any guy, no matter the size, can fit into that condom! And since condoms come in different sizes there’s no excuse for not wearing one during sex.
Condoms are thoroughly tested for strength and checked for any leaks. Even the tiniest hole will be detected during the testing process! So if a condom breaks during sex, more often than not, it’s because of human error. Here are a few common mistakes people make when using condoms:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u22BbGNzLWo
Did you see how big a condom can get when inflated? Some guys will give excuses for not wanting to wear a condom like they’re too tight or I don’t fit into condoms. But guys complaining about condoms are full of hot air! Any guy, no matter the size, can fit into that condom! And since condoms come in different sizes there’s no excuse for not wearing one during sex.
Condoms are thoroughly tested for strength and checked for any leaks. Even the tiniest hole will be detected during the testing process! So if a condom breaks during sex, more often than not, it’s because of human error. Here are a few common mistakes people make when using condoms:
- The condom was expired. Condoms deteriorate over time, so never use an expired condom.
- The wrapper was opened improperly. Never use your teeth to open a condom wrapper, since that could tear the condom.
- The condom wasn’t put on properly. Make sure to follow the directions, since condoms will only be effective when put on properly.
- The wrong lubrication was used. Always use a water-based lubricant, since other kinds of lubricants can break down latex.
Do you know how to properly put on a condom? Test your knowledge and play The Condom Game!
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