If signed into law by Gov. Gary Herbert, the measure will bar Utah public school teachers from talking with students about homosexuality and other forms of sexuality—excluding abstinence—before marriage. It will also prevent public schools from teaching students about the use of contraceptives as a means of preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infections.

“This just clarifies we’ll have an abstinence- only curriculum or a nothing curriculum,” Sen. Margaret Dayton (R-Orem), the bill’s sponsor told the Deseret News. Herbert, a Republican, has not publically offered support or opposition to the measure. A race for re-election this year might push the governor to support this conservative bill in this ultra-Red state.

Supporters of the “Don’t Gay, Don’t Condom” bill argue that sex-ed is best left to the parents, rather than public schools. The Beehive State presently requires that students enroll in sexual education classes only if their parents choose to allow it.

“To replace the parent in the school setting, among people who we have no idea what their morals are, we have no ideas what their values are, yet we turn our children over to them to instruct them in the most sensitive sexual activities in their lives, I think is wrongheaded,” Sen. Stuart Reid (R-Ogden), told the Salt Lake Tribune.

Across the aisle, Democratic lawmakers said that the restrictive measure will leave students at greater risk for STDs, pregnancy, and abortions. They argued that not all parents have the skills or temperament to keep their children informed about the consequences of sexual activity and its potentially-harmful effects.

“We’ve been discussing this as if every child has the benefit of two loving and caring parents who are ready to have a conversation about appropriate sexual activity, and I’m here to tell you that’s just not the case,” Sen. Ross Romero (D-Salt Lake City) told the Salt Lake Tribune.

A study published recently in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine reported that those states that require comprehensive, all-encompassing sexual education courses have lower teen birth rates. The study also found that the impact of sex-ed programs may be offset by factors including race, religion, income levels, and state abortion regulations.

There’s a pretty good argument why baseball is one of American’s many favorite pastimes. It could be because of its humble beginnings in our backyards, the excitement of the seventh inning stretch, or even the body hugging uniforms. But honestly, what’s not to love? Balls, men and team showers. With paralleling references like that, it’s no wonder that sex is usually described in baseball terms.

I’m pretty sure I know where “first base” begins and what’s considered a “home run,” but what falls in between varies on each of our own moral compasses, including oral sex. And just like the game, a good game plan can make all the difference–especially to your health.

The risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STD) orally varies depending on the disease itself. The most common oral STDs include herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, and HPV. The rate of contracting HIV orally is debated among experts; however, most conclude that the risks are low. Health conditions of both “players” are key factors. Open sores, compromised immune systems and viral load are all contributing factors.

Interesting enough, we have some naturally built-in defense systems to help protect us from transmitting and contracting diseases orally. Large sugar-protein  molecules in saliva (glycoprotein) help prevent diseases from being transmitted. Our mouth also has a protective (yet fragile) membrane that safeguards us. In addition, gastric acids in our stomach kill most bacteria and viruses. Again however, a person’s health condition is a contributing factor, including such diseases as oral, throat and stomach ulcers. Now, when was the last time you checked for that?

That being said, there are risk-reducing precautions one can keep in mind. Of course there’s good ‘ole abstinence (at least long enough to get to know your partner), followed by testing. “Suiting up” for the “big game” is another option; this includes using a barrier method, such as a condom. Some complain of a lack of sensation, and others of the taste. However, condoms come in an assortment of textures and flavors for just those reasons. For our extreme, more trusting (or daring) players, who choose to go at it commando (unprotected), you can reduce your risk by limiting your exposure to bodily fluids (such as semen).

The longer you’re exposed, the greater your risk. One option is to move the “finish line.” Preferably somewhere where fluids are less likely to enter your bloodstream. However, you still run the risk of exposure with “pre-game” anticipation. Lastly, in the conventional wisdom and words of Stanford University, “swallow or spit, just don’t let it sit.” No matter how you play it, it’s cle ar you need

a solid game plan ahead of time. This can make the difference between a perfect season and overtime at your doctor’s office.

Sam Knew, MSW is an educator and a local counselor. He can be reached at samknewmsw@gmail.com

Share and share alike may be a good philosophy in general, but when it comes to the bedroom it may benefit you to be a little selfish with your toys. The rate of transmission for sexually transmitted infections (STI) with the use of sex toys varies, and there are numerous contributing factors – but without question – you are at risk.

Depending on how sex toys are used, they come into contact with bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions, blood and feces. Each of these carries its own risk of transmitting STIs and other types of infections. Even if your sex toy party is a party of one, you run similar risks. Using the same toy from one orifice to the other without proper sanitation can lead to numerous types of self-inflicted infections. Hepatitis A is an infection one can contract when using a sexual toy that is contaminated with fecal matter, even if it’s the users own fecal matter.

One option to reducing your risk is choosing the right sex toy. The Coalition Against Toxic Toys (CATT) suggests, “Sex toys should be non-porous. Examples of safe, non-porous materials include: high-quality silicone, glass, surgical steel, ceramic and medical grade plastics.” These types of toys are also easier to clean and less likely to trap bacteria.

There has been an increasing trend to avoid toys made of phthalates (FAY-lates), also known as jelly rubber, a chemical used to make plastics.

Phthalate chemicals are used today in perfumes, hair sprays, plastic raincoats, nail polish, carpets, furniture and medical devices. They are even responsible for that “new car smell” MSNBC recently reported. The main concern with phthalates products is the lack of regulations – and in high concentration it can be toxic. Studies also report linking phthalates to infertility and other reproductive problems, cancer and liver and kidney damage.

In addition, keeping your toys clean is critical. Toys made of more porous materials may be harder to keep clean, and allow bacteria to be trapped and transmitted. These types of types of toys are also more vulnerable when cleaned improperly. Some studies have concluded that using harsh cleaning chemicals and excessive heat, as found when one uses a dishwasher to clean his/her toys, can compromise the protective layers of some toys.

Condoms are also widely recommended when using sex toys. An advantage to using condoms is fast, easier clean up. Especially during sex, they allow partners to safely share sex toys. Maintaining your toys is also just as important. Allowing them to dry completely, storing away from direct sunlight and following any suggested maintenance by the manufacturer. This includes using the proper lubricants, so not to damage your toys – or your health.

 



Sam Knew, MSW is an educator and a local counselor.

He can be reached at samknewmsw@gmail.com

Click on image to view fullscale

For the first time ever, a sitting pope has finally come out and said that condoms can be useful in helping to stop the spread of HIV, especially on the continent of Africa where more than 25 million people live with the disease.

In a new book, Pope Benedict XVI says that condoms can be justified for male prostitutes seeking to stop the spread of HIV. The book, “Light of the World: The Pope, the Church and the Signs of the Times,” was released Nov. 23 and was written by German journalist Peter Seewald, who interviewed Pope Benedict for six days this past summer.

The book is a stark contrast to Pope Benedict’s view in 2009, when he said the distribution on condoms in Africa actually increases the spread of HIV and AIDS.

Benedict said that condoms are not a moral solution but they could be justified “in the intention of reducing the risk of infection.” Pope Benedict called it “a first step in a movement toward a different way, a more human way of living sexuality.”

HIV groups throughout the world are thrilled that the pope is finally showing some progressive thinking.