Don’t let sexual health slide in trying times

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 29/11/2020 (2115 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Dear Miss Lonelyhearts: In your reply to “Frustrated,” you missed an opportunity to remind your readers about the important role condoms play in preventing the spread of sexually-transmitted infections (STIs).

(“Frustrated” complained her new guy is telling her he doesn’t like condoms that stop him from “feeling the whole experience.” She hasn’t told him she’s on the birth-control pill. I supported her in quickly punting this selfish guy, before anything happens at all. — Miss L.)

The pill can prevent pregnancy, but for protection against chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV, you need a condom.

Throughout North America, STIs are on the rise. Over the past decade, gonorrhea rates across the Prairies have increased more than 200 per cent. Of greater concern, syphilis has skyrocketed to levels not seen since the 1970s. Despite remarkable advances in treatments, there is still no cure for HIV.

Sexually active teens and 20-somethings account for the majority of STI cases, so Frustrated has reason to be concerned about her inconsiderate guy.

If undiagnosed, STIs can have long-term health consequences for both men and women. And, if a guy with an STI infects his pregnant partner, it can be devastating for their baby. Infections can be asymptomatic, so if you’ve been with someone new, get tested to know your status.

P.S.: For local resources, and a glimpse at the new made-in-Manitoba “Animal Instincts” safe sex campaign, see getsomecondoms.com.

During these trying times, it’s important to protect your health and show respect for others. If you’re going out, wear a mask. If you’re going in, wear a condom. — Love the Glove, Dr. David Alexander

Dear Glove: Thanks for your timely information — talk of the rise of STIs has been taking a back seat to COVID-19 news recently. But sexual life goes on.

Dating has hit a low, but people are still romancing, and those who are new to each other particularly need to go very slowly and be ever-so-careful — and not just about COVID.

Wearing a mask as you start getting to know a person is only part of the story. A kiss, a cough or a sneeze, even a “germy” touch — can spread the virus. At what point do you tear off the mask and kiss? Uncomfortable problem, yes!

But wearing a condom down below is also as essential as it ever was for prevention of pregnancy and transmission of STIs.

And let’s be clear: Condoms do not mask feeling enough to stop people from attaining orgasm. In fact, women are more likely to do so when they feel safe and comfortable.

For men who tend to ejaculate quickly, a condom can slow down the process, and make it more pleasurable for everyone.

Please send your questions and comments to lovecoach@hotmail.com or Miss Lonelyhearts c/o the Winnipeg Free Press, 1355 Mountain Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2X 3B6.

Miss Lonelyhearts
Advice Columnist

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