Bold.Fearless.True.

By Keziyah Lewis, TWC Peer Educator

One day when I was a freshman in high school, a friend of mine was telling us about her recent doctor’s appointment. She had terrible cramps, and her doctor prescribed hormonal birth control to treat it. It came as a shock to all of us because we did not know that birth control could be used for anything other than preventing pregnancy. And because of that, our initial thoughts upon hearing that someone is on birth control was that they must be having sex, or even worse, that they are promiscuous. So hearing that our friend, who we knew was probably not sexually active, was taking birth control for something other than preventing pregnancy, was surprising, and it took a moment for it to make sense.

That’s what a lack of sex education and living in a society obsessed with dictating what is acceptable behavior for women does to the minds of 15 year old  girls. Unfortunately, many people still believe that someone on birth control must be 1) having sex 2) having lots of sex with many different people and is therefore 3) a “slut” , and that 4) the number of people that a woman has sex with is linked to her morality or her worth as a person. All of these presumptions are of course false. Birth control has many other uses besides preventing pregnancy. And for this reason, it is also wrong to assume that only cisgender heterosexual women use birth control.

As I’ve said in a previous post, I’ve had my Mirena IUD for about 6 months now, and overall it’s going well. But the main reason for getting birth control was not to prevent pregnancy, it was so that I could stop my heavy and painful periods.

Of course, I’m not the only one who uses birth control this way. Many people skip their placebo week in order to delay their period. (Here, the Mayo Clinic provides more information about delaying your period with birth control.)

In addition to reducing periods and cramps, hormonal birth control can also treat endometriosis, reduce your risk of certain cancers, and reduce acne.  Planned Parenthood has more information about these benefits:

Women who do not need birth control often choose to take the pill for the other benefits it offers. Combination and progestin-only pills

reduce menstrual cramps

make periods lighter

offer some protection against pelvic inflammatory disease, which often leads to infertility when left untreated

The combination pill offers many other benefits, including some protection against

acne

bone thinning

breast growths that are not cancer

ectopic pregnancy

endometrial and ovarian cancers

serious infection in the ovaries, tubes, and uterus

iron deficiency anemia

cysts in the breasts and ovaries

premenstrual symptoms, including headaches and depression

bad cramps

heavy and/or irregular periods

It should be noted that there may be some negative effects to birth control methods, as there may be with any medication. Some people react negatively to certain methods but positively to other methods. It’s important to discuss the options with your doctor and to find a method that is right for you.

Also, don’t let anyone tell you that birth control means you are having sex at all or having sex with X amount of people, or that it’s wrong if you are. Go ahead and do whatever is right for you and your body.

As someone who works in sexual health education, I’m used to telling people that it’s important to be as safe as possible as much as possible, whether you’re in a relationship or playing the field.

But if we're thinking realistically, not everyone does that, especially when they’re in long term relationships. When I was a full time sex health educator and HIV counselor and tester, I talked to many people who were in relationships of 2 years or 20 years who did not use protection. And to me, it made sense that once you’re with someone for a while, you might know their sexual history, and you might have even gotten tested with them. Also, you trust them enough to know that they won’t cheat on you and pick up an STI while doing that.

According to a study of condom use among 15-24 year olds in Angola, people who were married or in relationships were less likely to use condoms. And according to a survey of adults in the United States, only 19% of respondents reported that they used condoms in an ongoing relationship.

Of course, there are many reasons for not using barrier methods with a long term partner. Perhaps you and your partner have no risk of getting pregnant, or a very low risk because one of your is on birth control. Or maybe you have a very low risk of contracting an STD.  Or maybe you prefer to do sexual activities that are less risky, such as oral sex or dry humping. It’s possible that you have been tested with your partner and/or you know about their sexual history.

As an educator, I generally stand by my rule of using barrier methods as much as possible, getting tested and encouraging your partner to get tested, and honest and open communication about sex. But I totally understand why someone in a committed relationship would not want to use protection, although I still  think it’s incredibly important to get tested with your partner at least once a year.  Most sexually active people will contract an STD in their lifetime, and some of them could cause infertility, cancer, and other health problems. And of course, it’s always good to communicate with your partner about what you both want and need from your sexual relationship.

So what do you think about not using barrier methods in a relationship? Has this worked for you? Is there a certain time in the relationship when you decided to stop using barrier methods?

Let me know your thoughts here or on Twitter.

Many people know that there are benefits to using condoms or dental dams during sex, but of course not everyone does use them. Sometimes, one partner wants to use protection and the other does not believe that it’s a big. Or perhaps, one partner has more power in the relationship.

  If you want to use protection with your partner, it’s important to be vocal about it. After all, it is about your body, your health, and your emotional well being. Here are a couple good reasons why you should negotiate barrier use with your partner:

1. Because you and your partner like/love/care about each other. (If you are not dating or in some sort of relationship, then it’s because you and your sex partner are decent people who respect the decisions of each other.) If you care about someone, and they are about you, then you value each others opinions, you respect each others’ feelings and decisions, and you don’t want to make each other feel uncomfortable. You want sex to be fun, enjoyable, and without the anxiety that comes with wondering about getting pregnant or getting and STD.

2. Because you want to protect yourself. And because you have the right to protect yourself from pregnancy and STDs. Your partner, whether it’s someone you’ve known for 1 hour or 1 year, should respect that.

You may also want to talk to your partner about getting tested for STIs. If they resist, offer to go with them to get tested.

Communication about sex is very important, whether it’s for a one time encounter or a long term relationship. Effective communication can lead to a safer and more comfortable sexual experience.

For more information, see these blogs on condom negotiation by Planned Parenthood and Amplify.

What is HIV?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that attacks one’s immune system, specifically a T-Cell  or CD4+ cell, a type of white blood cell. White blood cells keep your body healthy by attacking things that could make you sick. If you have very few T cells, you are more likely to get sick and stay sick longer.

Is it the same as AIDS?

No. AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. A person with AIDS is someone who is HIV positive and either has a T cell count of less than 200, or who has an opportunistic infection. An opportunistic infection is a disease that affects someone who has a very weak immune system. Examples include certain cancers.

Since AIDS is a condition that your body develops often long after HIV is contracted, you cannot “get AIDS” from someone. You can only contact HIV.

Also HIV/AIDS is not a death sentence.

If I get HIV, will I die?

Not necessarily. People with HIV can live long and relatively healthy lives. People with AIDS may be able to bring their T cell count back above 200 (though the medical community will still use the term AIDS to describe them). Many people with HIV have been living with the virus for decades. Treatments for HIV are getting better every year.

How do HIV medications work?

Antiretroviral medications work by preventing HIV from replicating. For example, one drug might prevent HIV from binding to a cell, another drug might prevent the viral RNA from replicating, and another drug might block a certain enzyme that the virus needs in order to function.

How does someone pay for the medication?

HIV meds can be very expensive. Insurance companies do cover HIV medications. Some people can also get help from programs such as the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). If you are diagnosed with HIV, and you want to discuss these options, find an HIV case manager at a local non profit or your local health department.

How is HIV transmitted and how can I prevent it?

HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids: blood, semen, pre-cum, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.

These fluids can only infect a person through a cut in their skin or through certain mucous membranes.  The vagina, penis, and anus are all vulnerable mucous membranes, thus unprotected vaginal and anal sex pose a risk. Oral sex on a penis or vulva has a lower risk for the person giving oral sex, but it is still possible, especially if there might be cuts in the mouth that one is unaware of. The person receiving oral sex is at virtually no risk, since HIV is not transmitted through saliva.  

HIV can also be passed from mother to baby through childbirth.

HIV is not contracted by hugging, kissing, sharing eating utensils, coughing sneezing, toilet seats, pools, or any type of casual or environmental contact.

Anyone who has sex or shares needles is at risk for HIV.

Here are some good steps to take to protect yourself and your partners.

1. Always use a barrier method with vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Use one correctly, with the right type of lube, and never use two at once.

2. Do not share needles. Not for drugs, hormones, tattoos, or anything. If you do, make sure you clean everything that you use.

3. If you are HIV+ and pregnant, stay on your medications and follow your doctor’s instructions. The risk of mother to child transmission is very low in the US, so chances are you may have an HIV negative baby.

4. Get tested once a year. Encourage your partner(s) to get tested. Get tested for STDs as well, as having an STD can increase the chance of transmitting and contracting HIV.

5. If you must have unprotected sex, have oral sex as it poses the lowest risk.

6. Reduce the number of partners you have, as this reduces the probability of HIV transmission.

7. Try other sexual activities that don’t involve direct contact with those fluids, like kissing, dry humping, mutual masturbation, etc.

Will I automatically get HIV if I sleep with an HIV+ person?

No. If you used a barrier method, the chances are extremely low. If you did not, the chances vary. Oral sex has the lowest risk, anal sex has the highest risk and vaginal sex is in the middle. Transmission depends on the type of sex, the amount of fluid involved, and the person’s viral load. This depends on whether or not they’re on medication, when they were infected, and other factors.

What should I do if I think I’ve been infected?

If you have been infected within the last few days, you may be able to receive post exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This is a 1 month treatment in which you would take antiretroviral medications in order to reduce the chance of transmission. It can be expensive (about $1000). Call your doctor or a local hospital if you want PEP, and do it soon. It may not be effective if you start PEP after 72 hours.

Otherwise, wait 3 months from the date of exposure and get an HIV test. In the meantime, use protection if you have sex.

How do I get tested?

Depending on where you live, you may be able to get a 15 or 20 minute rapid test for free. See our post on HIV testing.

What can I do if my partner has HIV?

Be supportive of them. Just because they are positive, doesn’t mean that you will be too. Get tested often.

Use protection when you have sex. Talk to your doctor about taking PrEP (pre exposure prophylaxis), something that you can take every day to reduce the risk of transmission.

What are some of the challenges that people face due to HIV stigma?

Domestic violence, abuse, murder, employment and health discrimination, many other things. Read our post on HIV stigma and this report on AVERT.

For more information about HIV/AIDS, visit the CDC and AVERT.

If you have questions or anything to add, feel free to leave a note.

By Keziyah Lewis, TWC Peer Educator

The HPV vaccine prevents the most common types of the human papillomavirus.

There are two brands available in the US, Gardasil and Cervarix.

Why should I get it?

HPV is caused by sexual contact, so everyone who has sex is at risk. HPV can be transmitted by skin to skin contact, so in some cases, a regular male condom will not protect you against HPV (and herpes. The FC2 can provide greater protection.) It is the most common STD, and nearly all sexually active people will get it in their lifetimes according to the CDC. 79 million people in the US are currently infected, and there are 14 million new infections every year.

In most cases, HPV goes away on it’s own within 2 years, but also, HPV can cause genital warts, throat warts, cervical cancer, and other types of cancers, which can be deadly. You may or may not see symptoms of HPV. See the CDC for more information on HPV.

Because of the risks, and because it is very common, getting vaccinated with HPV may be a good option for you. The vaccine protects against the most common types of HPV.

So it doesn’t protect against all types of HPV?

No. There are more than 100 types of HPV. Both Gardasil and Cervarix protect against types 16 and 18, which are responsible for most cases of cervical, anal, and vaginal cancers, and cause a significant proportion of vulvar cancers. Gardasil also protects against types 6 and 11, which cause 90% of genital warts.

See Planned Parenthood for more information.

When and where should I get it?

Cervarix and Gardasil can be given to girls and women between the ages of 9 and 26.

Gardasil can be given to boys and men between the ages of 11 and 26.

Ask your doctor, go to a community clinic, or Planned Parenthood.

Find more information about both vaccines on the CDC.

By Keziyah Lewis, TWC Peer Educator

The FC2 (or female condom, insertive condom, condom of your dreams) is a condom that is inserted into the vagina or anus and protects against HIV and other STDs and pregnancy.

How do I use it?

Here are some instructional videos. 

  Other good things to know:

1. You can use the FC2 for anal sex. Take out the ring and use the penis to guide it into the anus. Use the ring as a cock ring if you want.

2. Do NOT use a male condom with the FC2. Never use 2 condoms at once.

3. Insert it at least 20 minutes before intercourse.

4. Make sure you hold the outer ring in place upon the 1st insertion. You don’t have to hold it the whole time.

5. You can still use this if you don’t have a cervix. The FC2 stays in place by the public bone.

What are the benefits?

1. It is made of nitrile, not latex. So no allergies.

2. Nitrile conducts heat. The FC2 will warm up to your body temperature. This makes it feel more natural.

3. The inner ring may stimulate the tip of the penis.

4. The outer ring may stimulate the clitoris.

5. It can be inserted up to 8 hours in advance (2 hours per FDA recommendation).

6. It provides greater protection against STIs than the male condom. The outer ring covers part of the labia, which protects against HPV and Herpes, STIs that you can get from skin to skin contact.

7. Since it is not latex, you can use the FC2 with any type of lubricant.

8. The penis does not have to be hard when using this condom.

9. You do not have to remove the condom immediately after sex.

Is it effective?

Yes. According to Planned Parenthood, when used correctly, only 5 out of 100 women will become pregnant each year when using the FC2. Other sources may cite different rates of effectiveness.

The FC2 protects against HIV and other STDs.

What do people think about it?

Some people love the FC2 and prefer it to traditional condoms. Others do not prefer it. Many people are turned off by it when they first see it, because it looks different from other condoms, and they are not used to the idea of having to insert something into their vagina or anus. When I tell skeptical people about the benefits of the FC2, they are usually more receptive.

Where can I get them?

If you’re in DC, you can pick them up from  The Women’s Collective, and many other places around town. They are also available at some CVS stores.

Visit this website to see where else you can get the FC2 in other cities. If your city is not on this list, then I’m not sure where you can get them. If you do know, feel free to leave a note.

How can I train others to use it?

You can do an online training of trainers provided by the Female Health Company.

You will get a certificate, and if you are the 1st person at your organization to complete the training, you can get a free supply of 100 FC2s for your organization.

If you’re in DC, contact The Women’s Collective to request a training for your organization.

So you want to get tested for HIV? Marvelous. Congratulate yourself.

I’m glad you came to see me, a friendly HIV tester at The Women’s Collective (where you can get free HIV testing from 9-4:30 Monday through Friday in Washington, DC.)

Really, though, I am glad you came. HIV rates in DC are among the highest in the country, and many people don’t know their status. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 people in the country who are positive do not know their status. If you’re a young person, I’m really really glad you came, because young people accounted for 39% of new HIV infections in 2009.

Let’s go to the back, in the private testing room. You know, so one one will hear us discuss your personal business. People are so nosy these days, you know?

I’ll ask you some basic demographic information, and we’ll talk a little about why you’re here.

Then I’m going to ask you some really personal things, but don’t worry. It’s totally confidential. We’ll talk about things that put a person at risk for HIV, like how many partners you’ve had, and how often you use protection. You don’t have to answer any questions that you don’t want to, but like I said, it’s completely confidential.

Then we’ll talk all about HIV transmission. It can only be transmitted through certain fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluids, pre-cum, breastmilk) and through a cut in the skin or certain parts of your body (vaigina, penis, anus, mouth). It’s usually transmitted through sex, and though some sex acts have higher risks than others, all vaginal, anal, and oral unprotected sex has a potential risk. It can also be transmitted through sharing needles (any type of needles, not just those used for IV drugs.) If you do share needles, I’ll ask if you know how to clean them (bleach+water) and if you know where to get free clean needles in DC.

You can’t get HIV from kissing, toilet seats, coughing, sneezing, hugging, eating utensils, swimming pools, or any type of casual or environmental contact.

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, namely your white blood cells. It is NOT the same thing as AIDS. A person has AIDS when they are HIV+ and have few white blood cells (fewer than 200) or an opportunistic infection. it is very possible for people with HIV or AIDS to stay healthy by taking their medications, which keeps their viral load down and their white blood cell count up. HIV is absolutely not an automatic death sentence. Anytime someone tell you that it is, just say the words Magic Johnson.

I’ll answer any questions you have about HIV or protecting yourself. I’ll give you referrals to other agencies if you need services that we can’t provide. The test only takes 20 minutes, so don’t worry, we won’t be here that long. I know you have things to do.

Well, 20 minutes are up. Are you ready for your results?

If your test result is negative: We’ll review how you can protect yourself. Remember to use barrier methods (condoms, dental dams, finger cots) as often as you can during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with any partner. Have you talked to your partner(s) about getting tested? Have you tried the female/insertive condom? You should, it’s pretty great. Don’t forget to take some free condoms, dental dams, lube, finger cots, and brochures on your way out. See you next year!

Yep, I said next year. Not next week, not 3 months from now. The CDC recommends getting tested just once a year. Of course, you may have to come back if you got tested before the end of your window period (which is 3 months for rapid testing. This means you shouldn't get tested until 3 months after you think you were exposed to the virus. If you get tested before the window period ends, your test might be negative, but it could be a false negative.)

If your test result is invalid: No worries, this happens sometimes. It just means that the test is malfunctioning, so it could not determine a positive or negative result. Not your fault. We’ll just do another one. Technology these days, am I right?

If your test result is positive: I know this is going to be hard for you. You might cry, or get angry, or it might not even hit you at first. Any reaction or lack thereof that you have to this news is justifiable and valid, and you can have all the time you need. Also, this does not automatically mean that you’re going to die. People live and thrive with HIV, and so can you. You probably have many questions, fears, and worries. How did this happen? Who am I going to tell? How will people treat me? Why me? What am I going to do?  After you take a moment to process, we’ll talk about the next steps: getting a confirmatory blood test, anonymously notifying your recent partners that they should get tested, and linking you to case management and care. Also, there are programs that can help you pay for your medications. We’re going to be with you though these next few steps. We’ll even escort you to your follow up appointments. I can’t tell you that everything is going to be ok, but I can tell you that we’ll be there for you.

Oh and also, we’ll review how you can protect yourself. Remember to use barrier methods (condoms, dental dams, finger cots) as often as you can during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with any partner. Have you talked to your partner(s) about getting tested? Have you tried the female/insertive condom? You should, it’s pretty great. Don’t forget to take some free condoms, dental dams, lube, finger cots, and brochures on your way out.

No matter what your status is, thank you for coming in today, and I’ll see you around.

Now excuse me while I go do some testing paperwork.

Originally posted on the Amplify blog, by Keziyah Lewis, TWC Peer Educator

Even in 2013, many people still insist that bisexuality does not exist.

When the existence of bisexuality is not denied, it is mocked, misunderstood, ignored, excluded, and erased, even by LGBTQ+ organizations, and this may have a profound effect on the experience on bisexuals, as shown in Bisexual Invisibility: Impacts and Recommendations. In this report, the LGBT Advisory Council of the San Francisco Human Rights Commission presents certain alarming trends and statistics that mark the effects of bisexual erasure.

As someone who identifies as queer or bisexual (someone who is attracted to people of the same gender and of other genders, in case you were wondering which definition I prefer, as definitions of bisexuality are heavily disputed), these facts and statistics surprised me. Though I could relate to many of these statistics, I was surprised because it is so rare that bisexual issues are discussed separately from other queer issues (even though some studies show that bisexuals are the largest segment of those belonging to the queer community.)

1 in 4 bisexual people live in poverty

For me, this was a wake up call. Bisexual erasure, stereotypes, and lack of visibility are problems that I was already familiar with. But the statistics in the report about mental health, physical health, income disparities, and violence made me realize that there is so much work to be done within the bisexual community.

These are just some of the incredible facts presented in the report.

1. Bisexuals face greater physical and mental health disparitiesthan lesbians, gays, and the broader population (page 11). Bisexuals are also less likely to have access to insurance or financial resources for health care (page 12).

2. Bisexual women have increased rates of domestic violencewhen they are in relationships with monosexual partners, as compared to other groups of women (page 11).

3. Bisexuals are significantly more likely to be living in poverty, have lower levels of education, and have more children in the household (pages 12, 27).

4. Bisexuals are more likely to have considered or attempted suicide than heterosexuals, gays, and lesbians (page 12).

5. Statistics about violence against bisexuals and bisexual health are erased by organizations collecting the data.Bisexuals are usually grouped in with either the heterosexual or gay/lesbian categories (page 19-20).

6. Among women who have given birth, bisexuals are more likely than heterosexuals to have given birth during teenage years(page 23).

7. Female bisexual teens are more likely to have a history of sexual abuse than female heterosexual teens.

8. Bisexuals have significantly lower incomes than heterosexuals, gays and lesbians. Gay men and lesbians earn between 2 and 3 percent less than heterosexuals, while bisexuals earn between 10 and 15 percent less than heterosexuals (page 27).

9. There was zero grant funding that was specific to bisexual issues in the United States two years in a row (2008-2009). (page 28)

As I said, this should be a wake up call for LGBTQ+ activists and organizations. It’s time that we made a greater effort to increase the visibility of bisexual people and bisexual issues.

Nearly half of all bisexual women are survivors of rape

For more on this report and bisexual activism, visit Radical Bi on WordPress, and on Tumblr for the source of the infographics.

Also see “Why Bisexuals Stay in the Closet” in the LA Times.

By Keziyah Lewis, TWC Peer Educator

It wasn’t hard at all to reach my decision about the Mirena IUD. I had one main reason for choosing this form of birth control: I’m lazy.

And I like shortcuts. Like this lady.

I’m too lazy to take care of my hair, so I just shave it and wear wigs. I’m too lazy to make dinner so I throw something pre-made and heavily salted in the microwave. And I’m definitely too lazy/forgetful to keep track of a daily birth control pill. Of course, this is not to say that everyone who doesn’t take their pill on time is lazy. There are many other reasons why people miss their pill--we’re busy, we can’t always be near our little pink box at 8pm every single day, etc.

Last summer I was on a generic daily pill called Jolessa. My main reason for going on the pill was to reduce or eliminate my painful, annoying periods.  I liked Jolessa a lot (I had no periods at all!), except for the fact that I hated having to make an effort to always have it with me at the right time every day. And after I started slacking and taking them too late, I was punished with irritating side effects such as...

So after Jolessa ran out, I decided that I’m going to do birth control my way, the convenient way, the never-have-to-remember-to-take-a-pill-ever-again way. After reviewing all the options, I opted for an IUD for the convenience, and Mirena for the hormones that would make my period much lighter and less painful.

In case you’re wondering, IUD stands for intrauterine device. They are small devices shaped like a T that are inserted into the uterus by your doctor. There are two types: ParaGuard and Mirena. ParaGuard contains copper, so this is a great option if you don’t want a hormonal method, and lasts for 12 years. ParaGuard can also be used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of intercourse.

Mirena contains hormones and lasts for 5 years. IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control.

I’m about to tell you about the insertion process, so it’s going to get a bit graphic, FYI.

Before I had my IUD inserted, I had to take a pregnancy test. Then my doctor gave me two pills to be inserted vaginally the night before the procedure. The pills were called misoprostol, and they are used to dilate the cervix (the opening to the uterus) so that the IUD could be inserted. Depending on your cervix, you may not have to take misoprostol.  They made me feel a little crampy, but not much. My doctor recommended that I take painkillers on the day of because I would feel cramping during and after the procedure. I took Aleve because that’s what I always take when I have cramps.

The procedure itself took maybe less than 10 minutes. My doctor inserted a speculum into my vagina, as she usually would if we were doing a regular exam. She checked to see if my cervix was dilated enough, and it was. Then she inserted the IUD using some sort of tool. I did feel some pinching and cramping at this point, and it was pretty uncomfortable, but nothing worse than what I had ever experienced during my period.

During the next couple days I experienced bleeding and cramping, but that eventually stopped.

My periods continued as usual, but seemed to be getting lighter and less painful each month. Although, at times when I did experience cramps, it felt much different than usual.

It’s been about 5 months since I had Mirena inserted and overall I am pleased with the convenience and the easier to handle periods, though my periods have not totally disappeared. As for the cost, I had good insurance at the time, so it only cost me $20. But thanks to Obamacare, you may not have to pay for yours at all, depending on your insurance. If you don’t have insurance, your local Planned Parenthood or community clinic may be able to help. (If you’re in Washington, DC, try Unity Health Care.)

For more information about the IUD and other forms of birth control, visit Planned Parenthood.  

By Kelvonna Goode, TWC Peer Educator

Chlamydia and conorrhea are the most widespread, treatable sexually transmitted infections with 1.1 million cases reported nationwide. It is estimated that twice as many cases go undetected and unreported. These STIs are especially prevalent in women ages 15 to 19 and are three times more prevalent in women than men. Anyone who practices unsafe sex and/or has multiple partners is at risk for these infections. Both infections are caused by a bacterium that is passed through vaginal, anal, and/or oral sex. In basic terms, this means that any and all sexual activity can cause transmission from the infected partner to the non-infected partner. This dwelling bacterium can make an individual more susceptible to other STDs such as HIV, herpes, etc. chlamydia and gonorrhea often coexist and are treated simultaneously by a medical professional. When present, the symptoms include discharge, urinary tract irritation, abdominal pain, irregular bleeding, itching, burning, and/or painful intercourse. However, an asymptomatic infection (an infection without symptoms) can persist making these infections “silent”. Both chlamydia and gonorrhea are notorious for being asymptomatic making detection and treatment very important. Furthermore, chlamydia is highly asymptomatic with 85% of infected women having no symptoms at all. There is much danger in not knowing if you are currently infected with these quiet but ferocious infections. In women, the infection spreads upward into the reproductive system and causes scarring of essential reproductive organs. Without treatment, these infections lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can also be asymptomatic (yikes!), causing more scarring. Matter of fact, chlamydia and gonorrhea are the leading causes of female infertility. PID ultimately leads to infertility and/or fatal etopic pregnancies. These chronic complications are far more common in women than men, for obvious reasons. Women’s sexual organs are located on the inside and once these infections enter in, they wreak havoc. Both infections can also cause miscarriage for a pregnant woman or a woman who would become pregnant. Both chlamydia and gonorrhea are treated with antibiotics.

  To find out where you can get tested for these and other STDs, you can text GetHipDC to 74574. The GetHipDC line also provides other information about HIV, STDs, and other sexual health topics. Follow GetHipDC on Facebook.

By Ricca Prasad (TWC Peer Educator)

April 10, 2013

Near the end of 2011, after many years of debate, the FDA finally decided to allow women of all ages, including those under the age of 17, to have access to the emergency contraceptive Plan B without a prescription. Unfortunately, Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius overrode the FDA’s decision for the first time in history. Her main argument was that research had not been conducted on the safety of its usage for girls as young as 11. In light of the more serious health consequences of the alternatives for girls as young as 11 who may need Plan B (abortion or giving birth), the argument seems extremely weak.

  A more likely reason she overrode the FDA was that, with the upcoming 2012 election, she was trying to avoid the controversy that would have followed the new policy. It would have potentially upset some voters, maybe moderates or parents of young girls, who at the time supported the Obama administration. Once again the women of America saw political schemes and whims take privilege over a woman’s right to protect and control her own body.

  Thankfully, the federal district court ruled that requiring women under 17 to have a prescription to access Plan B is unconstitutional. U.S. Judge Edward Korman made the decision and stated ““The invocation of the adverse effect of Plan B on 11-year-olds is an excuse to deprive the overwhelming majority of women of their right to obtain contraceptives without unjustified and burdensome restrictions.”Of course no one knows how many young women were affected by the ban while it remained in place last year.

  Personally, I am extremely happy with the judge’s decision. It is hard, however, to celebrate victories in reproductive rights policies when I see the continuing controversy on topics as harmless as Plan B and condom distribution. It feels that as quickly as rights are given, they are taken away or challenged again. It is like watching a ping pong match as the ball moves from one side to the other. Less than two weeks before this Plan B decision was made, North Dakota Governor Jack Dalrymple approved an extreme abortion limitation bill: a ban on abortions after a heartbeat can be detected (as early as 6 weeks). It seems his goal in this was to stir up a legal debate, as even he acknowledged the bill might be found unconstitutional.

By Trudy Nelson, TWC Peer Educator. 

There is a common belief that it is the responsibility of a man to carry condoms.

“It’s his penis, so he should be the one to have them.”

Many also believe that a woman who carries condoms appears to be promiscuous.

“It isn’t ladylike for a woman to carry condoms.”

“ If she has them, then she must be ‘out there’ using them.”

In our society, women are expected to be MANY things (“ladylike,” accommodating, submissive, nurturing, etc.), but a woman should never allow herself to become is powerless. An empowered woman, young or old, is one who takes full responsibility for her happiness and health.  The empowered woman does what is necessary for her survival. She protects, both, herself and the ones she loves.

It is wise for anyone that is sexually active to have his or her own contraceptives. We, each, are individually responsible for our lives; our health.

Why Carrying Condoms is a "Good Look" for Women

It demonstrates that she knows her self- worth.

She knows her value and is taking a necessary precaution to preserve

her life and well- being by reducing her risk of contracting STD’s/ STI’s and/or having an unplanned pregnancy.

  It shows that she is proactive.

She knows what she wants (sex!) and she is both, prepared for and open to the opportunity.

  It indicates that she is a free- thinker.

She has disregarded the stigma attached to women carrying condoms and she has made a conscious decision to do what's best for her sexual health. She has chosen not to listen to the negative opinions of society. She defines her own womanhood.

  Why the Female Condom (FC2) is a Good Choice

The FC2 gives the woman the power to protect her sexual health.

The FC2 can be inserted 20 minutes to 8 hours before a sexual act.

The FC2 molds to your vaginal walls and adjusts to your natural body heat.

The FC2 allows a male to use any lubricant.

The FC2 can also be used for anal sex.

Taking Back the Streets: A Successful Conclusion to Anti Street Harassment Week

April 16th, 2013

By Ricca Prasad (TWC Peer Educator)

            Last week was Anti Street Harassment Week. Over the course of the week, tens of thousands of people across the globe united on the streets to protest the catcalls, leers, groping, stalking, and public masturbation that constitute street harassment. Men and women chalked on sidewalks, rallied, and marched to spread the message that we will not tolerate this harassment any longer.

            Street harassment mainly impacts women and the LGBTQ community. Most of you reading this have probably experienced it at some point, even if you are not a member of one of these groups. From hearing honks and whistles from cars as you walk along the street, to that person on the corner who stares you up and down, street harassment is everywhere, especially in cities. Even when I am not on the receiving end of it, it makes me uncomfortable. Ever seen a middle-aged man walk past a young girl and turn around to look her over when she doesn’t even know it? That happens daily on my campus.

              As a student at the George Washington University, I (and my friends) experience street harassment all the time. We live on an open campus in a downtown working district of DC, where businessmen and construction workers frequently harass young women and find it acceptable. What is the driving force behind this harassment? When a much older man leers at a young girl, what response is he expecting? It’s never favorable. Maybe he is trying to make her uncomfortable, cause eye contact, or even get her to face him for a better view. I am not sure about the reason it happens, but every act of street harassment is an individual deciding to participate in a culture that views women as sexual objects, values their bodies more than their minds, and endorses the second class citizenship of women.

            Making a lewd comment or leering as a person walks by may not seem like a significant act, but for the person who experiences it, they may feel discomfort, anxiety, or self-consciousness. It may seem like a compliment, but in reality it feels devaluing to most women because of the culture it represents. In a society where 1 in 4 women will experience sexual violence in her lifetime, a simple look could act as a trigger for previous trauma. As the main perpetrators of both sexual violence and street harassment, even though the majority of men do not engage in these acts, the entire gender carries around this burden. If a nice man with the friendliest of intentions smiles at a stranger on the street, she may self-consciously look down as she is used to street harassment and always been warned not to talk to strangers. In this way, street harassment very much affects the relationship between genders. This is absolutely true for LBGTQ members who experience harassment as well. Though I cannot speak to theirexperience as effectively, it is an important group to include.

            I am glad to know that I am not alone in feeling this way and that there was a week dedicated to the issue where members of all genders spoke out. For more information on the events and photos, check out these links:

http://www.meetusonthestreet.org/

http://www.stopstreetharassment.org/ending/meetusonthestreet/

(By Milan Patel, TWC Peer Educator)

April 4,  2013

If you go out and ask any given number of people about the dangers of HIV/AIDS, chances are you’ll get a response about how dangerous the virus is. A hidden symptom of the condition that many people don’t consider is the negative stigma associated with those who’ve been infected. This stigma contributes to fear, discrimination, and depression, which affect how a person with the virus lives their life.

In a recent survey done by POZ Magazine of its reader population, nearly seven out of every ten people living with HIV have been on the receiving end of discrimination from a friend or family member. This statistic is alarming, and whether you’re living with the virus or not, you should realize this too. After someone contracts HIV, the next steps are to support those in need as friends and family and to stand firm.

After all, what’s changed about them? Surely they haven’t changed as people. Their unchanged personalities are still what make them the same people as you and me. Of those surveyed, more than half of the discrimination is rooted in a lack of education. In order to fight the stigma, we must first understand it. Many people are confused about the transmission of the disease and think simply coughing onto someone passes it. The virus, however, is not an airborne, water-borne, or food-borne illness. HIV can only be transmitted via exchanges of blood or sexual fluids. The point is that assumptions can be dangerous and lead to stereotyping and discrimination.

So, if you’re ever in a situation where HIV-related discrimination is taking place, gather up your courage and stand tall. People living with HIV have the same hopes and dreams in their lives as you and me and they should respected with the same kind of equality that every human being deserves.

If you don’t know much about the disease, then read up! There are tons of sources out there on the Internet as well as many magazines dedicated to spreading awareness. Here are just a few:

http://www.aids.gov

http://www.hivaidscare.com/hivfaq.php

  And don’t forget to check out The Women’s Collective. Information about testing, outreach, events, and support can all be found here!

(Commentary by Jay Pandya, TWC Peer Educator)

Last month, the CDC released the results of an ongoing study regarding HIV prevalence rates among heterosexual couples in several poor urban communities. One of the subsets included in this study was from the Washington Dc area. Several interesting facts resulted from this study. Done primarily in economically disadvantaged urban communities, the survey highlighted eye-opening correlations. First and foremost, the prevalence of HIV was almost equal between men and women. However, those with a lesser education showed a higher occurrence of HIV. This carried through to occupation as well; the subjects with a lower income showed a higher occurrence for the disease. And last but not least, the subjects who were involved in prostitution and drug dealing/use also had a higher rate of HIV. Overall, across the tables, in all 21 cities survey, HIV rates have risen.

  In a day and age where there are numerous preventive protection methods available for sexually active couples to use, many times free of cost, it is tragic that HIV rates have risen. Male condoms and female FC2 condoms are both equally effective in protecting sexually active partners against sexually transmitted diseases like HIV.

  Most importantly however, the high rise in HIV rates among economically disadvantaged communities sheds light on one major step that couples should take to protect themselves before engaging in sexual activity: testing! With so many organizations out there providing free testing and counseling, it is important that people who are even somewhat prone to contracting the disease get tested first.