How's your sexual health?

Want to talk about STIs? NO? Really? Don't worry, we know that!

Honestly, those of us at ASHA have known for some time that too many Americans don't want to talk about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We should know--we've been talking about STIs for almost 100 years. Many have been listening. Some listen intently, others don't want to listen at all.

What we've found is that people do turn to ASHA and do listen only after something has gone "wrong" or they're worried. Instead of focusing on health and prevention, the focus turns to disease and treatment. So we are still looking for ways to turn the focus to a question of health--sexual health--instead of disease.

As you may recall, we asked you last summer what you thought about sexual health and the responses were amazing. You told us you want to be able to get the infomation you need simply, but accurately. You also want information to cover whatever stage of life you're in. You reminded us that sexual health is not just for the young--that older adults still want to be sexually healthy, but don't always have the tools or knowledge they need.

Thanks to your feedback, we are working to make these changes and shift our focus from STDs to sexual health, and give you the information you want and need. To learn what ASHA says about sexual health, come to the new sexual health section of our website.

The discussion stretches from the physical aspects of sexual interactions to issues related to decision-making, body image, desire, aging, and disability. No one is left out of the conversation. Join us!

ASHA Recognizes February as National Condom Month

As Cupid takes flight this month, the American Social Health Association (ASHA) wants lovers everywhere to be smart and be safe. To that end, ASHA recognizes February as National Condom Month 2010.

Did you know there are an estimated 19 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) each year? Chlamydia infections increased from 1.1 million in 2007 to 1.2 million in 2008. An 18% increase in syphilis cases has been reported, as have almost 337,000 cases of gonorrhea in the same year. These infections disproportionately affect young women and minorities.

While there are many ways to prevent STIs, condoms are the only widely available, proven method for reducing transmission of HIV and other STIs during intercourse.

Condoms have been used for at least 400 years, yet there is still a need for instruction on consistent and correct condom use. ASHA’s website has continued to develop a section with tips on talking with partners who are reluctant to practice safer sex. One approach is to make condom use a fun part of sex. Teasing your partner a bit by slowly putting on a condom could be, as CEO Barclay says, “just plain sexy!” Female condoms are also an excellent alternative when a male partner can't or won't use a condom.

In recognition of National Condom Month, visit www.ASHAstd.org and check out some of our condom resources:

• Experience ASHA's updated condom animation video.
• Read tops on talking with partners about condoms and safer sex.
• Learn how to correctly use male and female condoms.