- Condom 101
- STD 411
- Enjoyment
Correct Use of Condoms (Pinch - Place - Roll)
1. Store condoms in a cool place out of direct sunlight. Latex will become brittle from changes in temperature, rough handling or age. Don't use damaged, discolored, brittle, or sticky condoms.
2. Most condoms are made of latex so check the expiration date before use.
3. Carefully open the condom package (if your condom is in a box it most likely comes with a leaflet - worth reading) - teeth or fingernails can tear the condom.
4. Use a new condom every time a person has sexual intercourse.
5. Put on the condom after the penis is erect and before it touches ANY part of a partner's body. If a penis is uncircumcised, the person must pull back the foreskin before putting on the condom.
6. Put on the condom by pinching the reservoir tip and unrolling it all the way down the shaft of the penis from head to base. If the condom does not have a reservoir tip, pinch it to leave a half-inch space at the head of the penis for semen to collect after ejaculation.
7. Withdraw the penis immediately if the condom break during sexual intercourse and put on a new condom before resuming intercourse. When a condom breaks, use spermicidal foam or jelly and speak to a health-care provider about emergency contraception."
8. Use only water-based lubrication. Do not use oil-based lubricants such as cooking/vegetable oil, baby oil, hand lotion or petroleum jelly - these will cause the condom to deteriorate and break.
9. Withdraw the penis immediately after ejaculation, while the penis is still erect, grasp the rim of the condom between the fingers and slowly withdraw the penis (with the condom still on) so that no semen is spilled. |
| When used consistently and correctly, condoms greatly reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Adding water-based lube to the inside tip and outside of the condom reduces the chance for breakage and increases comfort. Most condoms are made of latex (a substance tapped from rubber trees), and come in a variety of textures, colors, and shapes. Less frequently, condoms are made of polyurethane or lambskin, which are more expensive and have advantages and disadvantages. |
| Condoms are available "non-lubricated" (useful for oral sex and for people with allergies or sensitivities to lubricants), "lubricated" (with a water-based coating to ease penetration and minimize the risk of breakage), or "spermicidally lubricated" with Nonoxynol-9 (N-9). Originally, N-9 was thought to reduce sperm mobility and thus prevent pregnancy. However, if a condom were to break or slip off, research shows that there is not enough N-9 on the condom to prevent pregnancy. N-9 was also added to condoms as a microbicide (a chemical substance that kills viruses and bacteria). However, recent research has found that N-9 may facilitate HIV transmission. Since some people are allergic or sensitive to spermicide, it's better to use dry or water-based lubed condoms. |
| Polyurethane (a synthetic material similar to plastic) male condoms and the female condom are recommended for people who are allergic or sensitive to latex. Clear in color, not as elastic as latex (kind of like a thin sandwich bag), and wider than the average sized condom, they can be used with water-based lubricants, as well. Also, the material conducts heat well, creating more sensation. Research shows that polyurethane male condoms are effective in pregnancy and STI prevention — nearly as effective as latex condoms. Compared to other barrier methods, condoms are just as effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy. Again, polyurethane condoms are a reliable alternative to latex condoms for people who are sensitive or allergic to latex. |
| Condoms made of lambskin (the intestine of a lamb) are the oldest type of condoms. "Skins" have pores small enough to block sperm, but too large to prevent transmission of STIs, including HIV. |
| Condoms coated with sugar, corn syrup, or other fructoses can dramatically alter the vagina's pH, setting the stage for infection. These flavored condoms are not recommended for vaginal or anal sex, but are okay for oral sex on men. In addition, "novelty" condoms, including most glow-in-the-dark kinds, can make great "gag" gifts, but are not intended for use with any kind of intercourse. Unless they are labeled as such, these condoms do not meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards to protect against pregnancy or STIs. |
| Most condoms are manufactured as one-size-fits-all. This size, and the tightness of the elastic ring, vary by manufacturer. Condoms generally fit men whose erect penis is average sized — anywhere from four to seven inches. Some condoms are "snugger fit," while others are "larger sized." It makes sense to purchase a variety to see what is appealing and fits. A firm yet comfortable fit decreases the chances that a condom will slip off during intercourse. |
| To become a more informed consumer, you can learn about condom standards and ratings. In the United States, condom manufacturers follow U.S. FDA standards. Using electronic testing, every condom is checked for defects before it is packaged. In addition, the FDA checks samples from every batch by performing water-leak or airburst tests. (Ironically, condoms are not tested the way they are used, i.e., there are no friction tests!) |
| When reading condom packaging, brands list descriptive terms, such as "ultra thin," "sensitive," "high sensation," or "extra strength." Some people prefer thinner condoms that allow for more sensation. Others prefer thicker condoms to feel more secure. This is a matter of personal preference, since there have not been studies that rate the relative effectiveness based on the marketed condom strength. All condoms that are intended for intercourse, however, are FDA-approved and meet the agency's standards. |
| Consumer Reports periodically publishes a report rating condoms. The most recent one, published in 2005, tested 23 latex condoms. This report recommended certain latex condoms and identified which are less effective. |
| Now that you know what to look for when purchasing condoms, it's time to make your selection. Before buying "rubbers," you may want to talk with your partner about condom options, or even share the experience of selecting condoms together. Purchases can be made at our store. Some people are brand loyal, while others sample different brands to find their favorite. Test-driving different brands with your partner can be fun. If, however, you open a condom that looks, smells, or fits funny, throw it out and move on to the next. And, take note of those expiration dates once you've made your choice(s) and before you stock up. |
| Finally, remember that a condom is not effective unless it is on the penis before the penis enters the vagina or anus. In order to make the most of condoms, they have to be used. |
If we do not change direction, we are likely to end up exactly where we are headed -Chinese proverb
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| National STD Hotline 1-800-232-4636 |
| National AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-AIDS (2437) |
| Emergency Contraception Hotline 1-888-668-2528 |
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| Distribution of New Cases of STDs by Age |
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STD Facts |
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- More than half of teens ages 15-19 have had sex, and these teens are at high risk for STDs
- About a quarter of all new cases of STDs occur in teens; two thirds of cases occur in people ages 15-24
- By age 24, at least one in two sexually active people will have contracted an STD
- At least 50% of all new HIV infections in the US occur in persons under 25 years of age
- Of the top 10 most frequently reported infections, five are STDs
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| Most Americans are unaware of the extent of the STD epidemic, however, because many infections are asymptomatic, and because social stigma prevents open discussion of the topic. |
| A potentially deadly aspect of STDs is the link to HIV. STD infections increase susceptibility to acquiring HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. |
Prevention strategies exist that can help stop the STD epidemic if we understand who is affected and the cost-effectiveness of prevention. (1) |
| Epidemic patterns of HIV - 1985 vs. 2004 |
In a landmark study last year, pioneering AIDS epidemiologist Ron Stall demonstrated that among 20 year old gay men today, about 25% will be HIV infected by age 30, about 40% will be infected by age 40, and more than half will be infected by their fifties. And for African American gay men, the numbers are even worse. (2) |
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| Online Resource |
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Description |
| Genital Warts In Males |
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A comprehensive resource for identifying, preventing and treating genital warts |
| 1st Choice Org - Women's Resource Center |
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From here you can get answers to all of your hard to answer questions |
| Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is one of the 13 major operating components of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) |
| American Social Health Association |
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ASHA is recognized by the public, patients, providers, and policy makers for developing and delivering accurate, medically reliable information about STDs |
| World Health Organization |
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The World Health Organization is the United Nations specialized agency for health. Health is defined in WHO's Constitution as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. |
| Scarleteen |
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Committed to delivering the best contemporary teen sex ed on the net since 1988 |
| inSPOT |
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Organization dedicated to developing and using Internet technologies to prevent disease transmission and enhance the sexual well-being of individuals and communities |
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| Curable STDs |
| THESE STDs WILL GO AWAY IF YOU TAKE THE PRESCRIBED MEDICATIONS CORRECTLY AND COMPLETELY. YOU CAN GET THEM MORE THAN ONCE, THOUGH, IF YOU ARE RE-EXPOSED TO AN INFECTED PERSON. |
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| Chlamydia | Syphilis | Trichomoniasis | Gonorrhea | Non-Gonoccochal Urethritis |
- Usually treated with antibiotics
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| Crabs and Scabies |
- Usually treated with over-the-counter and prescription creams
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| Vaginitis |
- Usually clears up without treatment
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| Treatable STDs |
| THERE IS SYMPTOM RELIEF FOR THESE STDs, ALTHOUGH THE VIRUS WILL REMAIN IN YOUR BODY. |
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| Hepatitis A |
- Bed rest, fluid intake, vaccine preventable
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| Hepatitis B |
- Antiviral medications, vaccine preventable
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| Herpes |
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| HIV/AIDS |
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| HPV (genital warts) |
- There are several treatment options available for removing warts. It is important that women obtain an annual pap smear to detect any HPV that may not be presented in the form of genital warts.
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| Molluscum Contagiosum |
- There are several treatment options for removing the associated bumps
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| Did you know that some of these STDs make it 6-10 times more likely to transmit HIV from an infected person to his or her sex partner - no matter who has the STD first? |
| Talking to your sex partner helps take away the stigma associated with STDs - BE EDUCATED! |
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(1)Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Trends in Reportable Sexually Transmitted Diseases in the United States, 2005. |
(2)Huffington Post, Andrew Sullivan Declares the 'End of AIDS' - Again, 2007 |
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Enjoyment 101
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Experience is the best teacher. But sometimes you need some helpful hints. Ready two Go is happy to share these hints with you. And after you enjoy using our products, we'd be thrilled if you sent us any hints you may discover in the process! |
| Condoms |
- Use of condoms on sex toys is a great way to keep them clean and to reduce the risk of transferring STDs
- Easily transfer toys from one orifice to another by simply changing the condom - clean & safe!
- Flavored condoms are great for oral sex, but are not intended for any kind of intercourse.
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| Silicone Based Lubes |
- Ideal for use in aquatic environments
- Silicone-based lubricants don't dissolve in water
- Usually last longer than water-based lubes
- Don't use them with your silicone toys or you'll destroy the toy's sensitive material!
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| Water Based Lubes |
- Water-based lubricants are great for sex with your partner, manual masturbation and sex-toy play
- Easy to clean up, condom-safe and generally odorless and tasteless
- Won't damage even the most sensitive sex-toy materials
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| More Than Sex |
Variety of Positions |
- The number of positions for sexual intimacy are limited only by your imagination or inhibitions. Having an open mind will help you and your partner bring more playful energy into the exciting pursuit of exploring positions.
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A Subtle Shift |
- Don’t abandon a new position right away if it’s not working for you. See what happens when you move a leg a little to the left or right, put a pillow under your bottom to lift your pelvis or shift from one knee to the other. After all, half the fun is getting there.
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Communication |
- Say what you like and what doesn’t work for you. The truth is you both really want to know what the other one wants and likes. Besides, there’s nothing better than hearing your partner moaning about how good it feels.
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Exercise |
- A healthy, fit, and limber body responds best to the demands you may put on it during great sex. You’ll go to the gym to tone your outer body but how about your interior muscles? That means learn how to “zip the pelvic floor”. This works for both men and women and can lead to stronger, longer orgasms.
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Thrusting Techniques |
- It isn’t just about in and out during intercourse – it’s about creating a kind of dance. Subtle moves, noticing what your partner responds to – this is what makes lovemaking a treat. Varying your thrusting patterns, while paying attention to your lover’s responses, will turn you into a great lover. Remember, sometimes holding back a little builds desire in both you and your partner.
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Breathing |
- It will never be said enough – breathing is vitally important. Use faster, more shallow breathing techniques to enhance and build your sexual energy and response. Use slower breaths to retain control and slow your response rate down. With a little practice, and there’s nothing wrong with practicing alone, you’ll notice the difference in arousal and response.
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Getting Involved |
- This is the time to focus 100% on what you are doing in the present. Be aware of what feels good, whatever it is. If the two of you are lying very close together, try rubbing back and forth, head to toe, instead of thrusting. In the rear-entry positions either partner can use their free hands to stimulate the clitoris or for masturbation. Focus on the pleasure of feeling good and making someone else feel good too!
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Visualization |
- Imagine light or energy vibrations passing up your body and out the top of your head. As the light or energy gets stronger so do the vibrations. Visualize your G-spot or P-spot and how the energy is moving in them. By doing so you will have a mental picture of these arousal areas and be able to better visualize them while making love. This will help you in develop your orgasmic capacity.
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Listen to your body |
- Remember - only do what feels comfortable at any one moment. This is supposed to be fun, not meticulous and exacting. Don't continue if you feel like you're going to hyperventilate, cramp or otherwise hurt yourself. Sommetimes the sheer physical release of sex will cause you to become emotional, go with it. It’s all about going with the flow, which sometimes takes adjustment. Be gentle with yourself and understanding with your partner.
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