3 Kinds of Lubricants

One of the common questions that people ask about is the different kinds of lubricants. Here is a brief explanation of the different kinds of lubricants and what their suggestions are and what they should and should not be used with.  There are three different kinds of lubricants and each of them have their advantages and their drawbacks.

  • Water Based – These are the most popular kinds of lubricants because they can be used with the latex contraceptives such as diaphragms, sponges, and condoms.  They’re nonirritating and easy to clean up.  KY is a popular brand of this kind of lubricant and so is Liquid Silk.
  • Silicone Based – These lubricants last longer than the water based but they can’t be used with sex toys made of silicone due to the silicone on silicone reactions. They can be used with latex toys and contraceptives that aren’t made of silicone.  Two popular brands are Überlube and Pjur Woman Bodyglide
  • Oil Based – These lubricants are really good for masturbation purposes but should not be used with latex contraceptives or toys made or rubber, because it can cause it to break down.  Vaseline is a popular lubricant and so is oil made of Vitamin E, although there are people who are allergic to the latter.

These are three of the lubricants that a lot of people use when it comes to sex.  Some of them are personal preference while others are more of a health preference.  If you are unsure about whether or not you are going to be able to handle the other kinds of lubricants, it’s a good idea to start with one of the water based lubricants and get used to it, since that is the most versatile one.  It’s good to experiment and try different things but it’s also good to be careful.

Filed Under: Planning, Sexual Health Tagged With: ,

Help Is Out There

It is ironic really, that a civilization as advanced and cultured as ours still hides from the subject of sexual health and birth control. Our children are becoming sexually active at a younger age and more and more are facing adult issues before they are truly ready to. Finding resources to assist with education and options is critical.

Planned Parenthood is just such an organization. It offers its clients information, assistance and the tools they need to practice safe sex. The organization does, in fact, offer help and assistance to its clients, but still, at least to some extent, it is still at the center of a great deal of controversy. There are organizations that oppose it and believe that the information and help it gives out is wrong.

Still, the rising rate of STD’s and teenage pregnancy tell us that something may be done. Planned Parenthood offers safe advice to its clients. Whether a teenager is interested in birth control options or an unwed mother needs help exploring their options, having a resource such as this available is an important part of any community.

Perhaps parents or schools should be the primary resource for sexual health information. Unfortunately, this doesn’t often happen. In a world where birth control is almost fool proof and scientific research has explained how each STD is transmitted and how to prevent it, there simply isn’t a reason to have rising unplanned pregnancies and higher than ever STD rates.

Until such time that these issues are handled completely by parents or schools for ALL children, Planned Parenthood is necessary. Some may view it as a necessary evil, but it is necessary. Your local Planned Parenthood office offers all the resources that are needed to practice safe sex including information on sexually transmitted diseases and even birth control.

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Margaret Sanger’s Legacy

After watching her mother suffer the consequences of almost constant pregnancy and caring for her in her final days, Margaret Sanger became a nurse and worked almost exclusively with low-income women. She was particularly sympathetic to women who were unable to obtain and use birth control and who therefore had no control over their bodies or their reproductive functions. She also saw firsthand the effects of illegal and self-induced abortions resulting from the inability to access contraceptives and the lack education on sexual matters.

Sanger had to resort to defying the laws of the time in order to help women access this most intimate and basic right. Shortly thereafter, she founded a national organization, the American Birth Control League, which was committed to not only providing access to birth control but also to fighting for reproductive freedom. Her organization later became the Planned Parenthood Federation.

Through her life, Sanger amassed millions of letters from women who needed birth control advice and shared their desperate stories. Many of these letters were complied into book form as a testament to the need for legal contraceptives and reproductive education.

Planned Parenthood is constantly fighting for women’s rights and continually challenging restrictions on reproductive rights and education. While various political and social groups attempt to eliminate reproductive freedom and to move backwards with education and gender equality, Planned Parenthood pursues legal and political channels to uphold these rights.

Planned Parenthood also challenges the validity of faulty or unscientific studies, and makes sure that women use legitimate study results in making their health choices. It is also one of the largest providers of sex education, and discourages the promotion of ineffective education programs hide or distort the truth.

Margaret Sanger’s legacy continues today as Planned Parenthood provides millions of women and men with the information and services she fought so hard to bring to them.

Filed Under: Advice, Parenthood, Planning Tagged With: , , ,

Confidential Health Advice and Services For Teens

Some teens enjoy a completely open and honest relationship with their parents in which they can discuss anything. But many teenage girls, especially sexually active ones, simply can’t bring this subject up, even with their moms. As many times as their parent may have said “you can ask me anything”, most teenagers are understandably uncomfortable discussing their sexual experience with their parents.

This can lead to problems if young women have concerns about pregnancy, birth control, or sexually transmitted diseases. They may also need to talk about relationship issues such as pressure to become sexually active, or other intimate problems.

Most cities have a Planned Parenthood office, which is available to anyone who needs access to information regarding women’s health and welfare. In addition to being completely confidential, Planned Parenthood staff is highly sensitive to the needs of young women, particularly those who have nowhere else to turn. In addition to providing birth control contraceptive education, the clinics also offer a wide variety of counseling and informative services.

Teens with any concerns about their sexual heath and welfare should always feel safe contacting a Planned Parenthood office. It can be scary to sort out birth control options on their own, and they may not feel comfortable talking to their family physician. Planned Parenthood provides basic gynecological exams and testing for STDs, pregnancy, and other female issues. For young women who may be worried about body image, depression or substance abuse, Planned Parenthood counselors can openly and honestly discuss these issues and provide women with referrals and information.

Sometimes all she needs is adult reassurance that everything going on with her body is normal. Planned Parenthood has been providing these confidential services for nearly 100 years. Teens should never hesitate to start at Planned Parenthood for any concerns about sexuality or gynecological issues.

Filed Under: Advice, Prenatal Care, Sexual Health Tagged With: , ,

What To Expect During Your First Visit To Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood often serves as the only health resource for teens and women without access to gynecological care or birth contraceptives. For those seeking birth control for the first time, talking to someone about private information can be a scary experience.

First, remember that Planned Parenthood staff are passionate about what they do and the services they provide. They are skilled at putting the patient at ease and know that many women have never talked to anyone about sexual matters before. There is no need to be nervous in that regard.

A counselor will explain the clinic’s policies and payment options, which are usually based on sliding scale. They will then take your basic medical information and history. If you are seeking contraceptives, the practitioner will discuss your needs and lifestyle to help you decide on the most appropriate method.

Most initial visits include a video or presentation about Planned Parenthood, women’s health, and a demonstration pelvic exam. You may also need to provide a urine sample. The medical exam will consist of checking your blood pressure and heart rate, listening to your chest and lungs, feeling your neck to check your thyroid, a breast exam, pelvic exam and pap smear. If you will be getting a diaphragm, cervical cap or ring, she will check internally for the proper fit.

After the exam, the practitioner will give you instructions on your birth control method and schedule your follow up. The clinic will provide you with your pills or contraceptive devices; there is no need to go to a drugstore to have a prescription filled.

It is important to be honest during your visit. Drinking, smoking, drug use and your lifestyle can impact the effectiveness of certain birth control methods. Planned Parenthood is committed to privacy and confidentiality, so be sure you give accurate information in order to maintain your sexual health.

Filed Under: Parenthood, Planning, Sexual Health Tagged With: , ,

Finally Open in Long Beach: Planned Parenthood for Teens

After a drawn-out process of expansion, Long Beach finally has its own Planned Parenthood center. The community desire and need for health services such as cancer screenings, annual check-ups, and sexually transmitted disease screenings, will finally be met by this branch of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles. Adrianne Black, the co-CEO of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles remarked that the community need has been remarkable in Long Beach, and that the community members are relieved to have these services available to their youth.

The rate of contracted sexually transmitted diseases in Los Angeles County is bad, compared to national statistics, but it’s nothing compared to Long Beach’s reports. The Planned Parenthood at the Lakewood Center is nearest to Long Beach, and for many years it has been the busiest of the 18 branches in the Los Angeles County region. Many of the people visiting the Lakewood Center admit that they drove from Long Beach for services like birth control. Without affordable contraceptives and birth control, many teens are forced to take changes and risk their futures on luck.

The Long Beach facility opened in February, but did not start operating full time until September. A private open house exhibit of informational materials will take place in September on the 22nd. During this economic recession, hardships have befallen families that would usually not require Planned Parenthood services. The services available at the 19 facilities in Los Angeles County are able to fill the need for contraceptives and check-ups, in addition to advising people on how to qualify for Medicaid, and where to seek additional services.

Wellness exams for women are among the most popular services that community members request, in addition to sexually transmitted diseases screenings, and birth control. Only 14% of customers at Planned Parenthood are male, and usually those are accompanied by females.

Filed Under: Sexual Health, Sexual Orientation Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Using the Withdrawal Method as Birth Control

Birth control preferences vary from person-to-person and is simply a matter of finding the method that is compatible with their lifestyle and choices. Realizing that there are risks associated with any form of birth control, whichever method is used must be able to give the individual or the couple the results they’re looking for.

Since the goal of birth control methods is to prevent pregnancy, it’s important to look closely at the risks involved. The Withdrawal Method is a widely used form of birth control that many couples use to avoid pregnancy. Although the method is common, the pregnancy risks are very high and the method often fails.

During sex and in using the Withdrawal Method, the man removes his penis from the woman’s vagina before ejaculation so as to avoid the sperm uniting with the woman’s egg, which can cause pregnancy if the two join. However, during sex, small amounts of sperm can (and does) leak from the man’s penis and through the semen, travels into the woman’s vagina without detection from either person. By withdrawing before ejaculating, the couple may think that the sperm does not have the chance to reach the woman’s reproductive organs, but it does.

Studies on the male’s reproductive system show that in a normal male’s ejaculation, there are generally about 300-500 million sperm contained in the 1 teaspoon of fluid that they emit. That means that there are over 300-500 million chances in 1 that a pregnancy is likely to occur by using this method. This doesn’t mean that a pregnancy will or won’t occur, just that it’s likely.

By contrast, there are couples who have and continue to use this method as their main means of birth control, although the risks are great. While it is a personal choice, being informed about the risks are necessary in order to make an intelligent decision.

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Filed Under: Advice, Contraception, Sexual Health Tagged With: , , ,

Is the Birth Control Shot Really Effective?

The birth control shot became so popular because it is easy, fast and convenient and the woman only has to get the shot anywhere from 2-4 times per year, making it a very popular method.

Progesterone, the hormone in the birth control shot, works by preventing the egg’s release during the woman’s monthly menstrual cycle. Since a woman gets pregnant if she ovulates, without having this process, the chances of pregnancy are significantly reduced.

Birth control studies have shown that out of every 100 individuals who use this method, only 3 experiences an accidental pregnancy. So while the method is not 100% fool-proof, the averages are extremely high enough to encourage women to use the shot as their main means of birth control.

The shot is administered every three months through an injection into the buttocks. It stays in the person’s system for three months, and after that time, they need to have the shot administered again. It’s very important to get the shots as necessary to reduce any chances of pregnancy because the likelihood does increase if the person waits longer than the 3-month time period to get their injection.

Women who are interested in receiving the birth control injection should consult with their doctor to ensure that the shots won’t interfere with other medications they’re taking. They should also talk with their doctor about any associated risks or side effects (though minimal) that can occur with the injections as well. Some risks that may occur include weight gain, spotting, hormonal imbalance and of course accidental pregnancies.

For many women, the convenience of the birth control injection far outweighs the possible risks and offers them a lifestyle that is very flexible, especially for the busy woman. With a shot that is administered every quarter, they love the idea that they don’t have to think about birth control outside of 4 times a year.

Filed Under: Advice, Contraception, Prenatal Care, Sexual Health Tagged With: , , ,

Is Planned Parenthood All About Birth Control?

Planned Parenthood clinics provide a wide range of sexual health services in addition to birth control. The health care providers respect your beliefs, and if you are committed to abstinence or natural methods they will provide you with the most accurate and helpful information so that you can practice your choice safely.

Also, if you are not or do not intend to be sexually active, you will still find a supportive atmosphere. Women in lesbian relationships may not need contraceptive services, but many choose to utilize Planned Parenthood for their gynecological exams and health care.

They also offer educational resources and have a vast of educational material relating to sexual health, sexual orientation, reproductive rights and many other women’s issues.

Planned Parenthood teaches that women should be in charge of their bodies, and they are committed to making health services available to all women. It can even provide resources and referrals to rehabilitation services, counseling, nutritional advice and assistance in obtaining other social services. For the services that they do not provide, they are a trustworthy source of information on getting the help you need. They can also serve as a liaison for people who are too scared or confused to pursue these services on their own.

Planned Parenthood does believe in responsible sex and will provide birth control for sexually active people who need it. They also provide education and counseling on the risks of sexual activity and ways to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

In addition to providing contraceptives and health screenings for women of all age, Planned Parenthood is a leader in the fight for preserving reproductive rights, and for the promotion of accurate and relevant sex education information. Through lobbying activities and public information campaigns, Planned Parenthood seeks to maintain the rights that women have achieved and to keep birth control easily available for everyone.

Filed Under: Parenthood, Planning, Sexual Life Tagged With: , ,

Help Is Out There

It is ironic really, that a civilization as advanced and cultured as ours still hides from the subject of sexual health and birth control. Our children are becoming sexually active at a younger age and more and more are facing adult issues before they are truly ready to. Finding resources to assist with education and options is critical.

Planned Parenthood is just such an organization. It offers its clients information, assistance and the tools they need to practice safe sex. The organization does, in fact, offer help and assistance to its clients, but still, at least to some extent, it is still at the center of a great deal of controversy. There are organizations that oppose it and believe that the information and help it gives out is wrong.

Still, the rising rate of STD’s and teenage pregnancy tell us that something may be done. Planned Parenthood offers safe advice to its clients. Whether a teenager is interested in birth control options or an unwed mother needs help exploring their options, having a resource such as this available is an important part of any community.

Perhaps parents or schools should be the primary resource for sexual health information. Unfortunately, this doesn’t often happen. In a world where birth control is almost fool proof and scientific research has explained how each STD is transmitted and how to prevent it, there simply isn’t a reason to have rising unplanned pregnancies and higher than ever STD rates.

Until such time that these issues are handled completely by parents or schools for ALL children, Planned Parenthood is necessary. Some may view it as a necessary evil, but it is necessary. Your local Planned Parenthood office offers all the resources that are needed to practice safe sex including information on sexually transmitted diseases and even birth control.

Filed Under: Parenthood, Sexual Health Tagged With: , ,
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