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Regardless of your level of sexual experience, everyone has questions about sex now and then. Check out these sexual health FAQs; you may pick up some useful tips.
PREGNANCY TESTS
Q. How soon can I use home pregnancy tests?
A. Home pregnancy tests are most accurate one week after a missed period, although some tests say they can be used as early as five to six days before a missed period. All home pregnancy tests detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG. This hormone is produced by the placenta after the fertilized egg implants in your womb. The sensitivity of the various brands of home pregnancy tests differ, meaning some detect lower levels of hCG than others do. In general, the most sensitive tests are also the most expensive. If you're buying a home pregnancy test, read the package to determine when to test; follow the directions carefully. Most tests provide a disposable cup for you to collect your urine or instruct you to urinate directly on the testing device. For the most accurate result, perform the test on your first urine of the morning; this is the time of day when your urine is most concentrated.
A positive home pregnancy test almost always means that you are pregnant. False positives -- the test indicates that you are pregnant when you are not -- are uncommon. A negative test may mean you are not pregnant, but false negatives -- the test indicates you are not pregnant when you are -- are fairly common. False negatives are most likely to occur when you take the test before a missed period; your hCG levels may be too low for detection even though you are pregnant. If you suspect that you are pregnant but get a negative test result, wait until a week past the date of your expected period and repeat the test. If you get another negative test result but still suspect that you are pregnant, call your doctor. A blood test and pelvic exam will give you a definitive answer.
DENTAL DAMS
Q. What is a dental dam and how is it used? I don't mean when the dentist uses it.
A. A dental dam is a rectangular piece of plastic used to prevent disease transmission during oral sex performed on a woman or oral-anal sex. Many dental dams are flavored. Since STDs can be transmitted to either partner during oral sex, it is important to use a dental dam. Dental dams are placed over the area that is being pleasured. Make sure not to flip the dental dam over during use. Plastic wrap can be used as an alternative to a dental dam; you use it the same way. Some people cut a condom in half and use it on their tongue; others cut the rolled end off a condom and cut it down one side to create a latex rectangle. You can buy latex and latex-free dental dams at most stores that sell condoms; you can also buy them online. Remember, in the United States and Canada, you can buy condoms or birth control products at any age. Many universities distribute free dental dams and condoms at the student health centers.
ORAL SEX
Q. What is oral sex?
A. Oral sex involves stimulating your partner's genitals with your mouth and tongue. Oral sex performed on a man is called fellatio or a "blow job." Oral sex performed on a woman is called cunnilingus. Another form of oral sex involves stimulating the area around your partner's anus with your tongue; this is called "rimming." Although pregnancy is not a risk with oral sex, sexually transmitted diseases are. Gonorrhea, HIV, herpes, chlamydia, HPV and viral hepatitis can be transmitted by oral sex. Always use a dental dam, condom or plastic wrap barrier to protect yourself and your partner when having oral sex. If you are in a long-term monogamous relationship, it's up to you to decide if you need STD protection.
