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Safe Sex Tips

November 18, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Practicing safe sex greatly reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.  While no methods of safe sex, with the exception of abstinence, are 100% effective if you do engage it sexual activity, it is better to use protection because doing so is definitely much safer than not using any form of protection.  While various forms of protection are not foolproof, using them will greatly reduce your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or an unwanted pregnancy.  While there are a multitude of safe sex methods available this article will outline only a fraction of these methods including, abstinence and monogamy, both male and female condoms, and oral contraception.

The only truly safe method of preventing both pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases is abstinence.  This is the only safe sex method that is 100% effective against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease.  While abstinence may be a completely foolproof safe sex method, it is also not the chosen safe sex method for very many people.  If you are unwilling to engage in abstinence as a safe sex method, it is highly recommended that you at least only engage in sexual activities with a monogamous partner.  Monogamy means that neither you nor your partner are engaging in sexual activity with anyone else besides each other.  Monogamy is not an effective method of birth control but it is effective at preventing sexually transmitted diseases.  As long as you and your partner are free of diseases, you will remain that way for at least as long as you remain monogamous.  Abstinence and monogamy are both highly effective safe sex methods.  Abstinence is effective at preventing both pregnancy and diseases while monogamy helps to prevent diseases only.

In terms of avoiding sexually transmitted diseases, the condom is one the only truly effective methods available.  If used properly condoms can be very effective in preventing not only sexually transmitted diseases but also unwanted pregnancies.  Male condoms are relatively inexpensive and are readily available in drug stores, grocery stores and even vending machines.  Condoms are also available in both male and female versions.  The male condom is the one most often used.  The male condom is a thin sheath, usually made of latex that fits over the penis and acts as a barrier to the exchange of bodily fluids during intercourse.  If used correctly every time the male condom is 97%-98% effective against preventing pregnancy and is also highly effective in terms of preventing sexually transmitted diseases.  Even if they are not used correctly condemns are still 88%-90% effective in terms of preventing pregnancy.  While condoms, if used correctly, are highly effective birth control methods as well as sexually transmitted disease deterrents, they are still not 100% reliable and you should understand that you still run the risk of pregnancy or disease even if you are using a condom.  The female condom is a polyurethane sheath that lines the entire vagina.  The closed end is inserted into the vagina and the open end remains outside the body.  The female condom has only been available since the 1990s and its high cost and scarce availability contribute to it not being used widely as a safe sex method.  Both male and female condoms are effective methods for both avoiding pregnancy and preventing sexually transmitted diseases.

Use of oral contraception such as birth control pills is highly effective for preventing pregnancy but is not useful in preventing sexually transmitted diseases.  Oral contraception is a pill that is taken daily and utilizes hormonal supplements to prevent pregnancy by creating an environment that is not conducive to fertilization.  When used correctly the pill is 97%-99 effective in preventing pregnancy but does absolutely nothing to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.  There are many side effects to using the pill but most of these side effects are relatively mild.  Some side effects include weight changes, nausea, irritability and breast tenderness.  Although none of these side effects are severe, fortunately, many of them can also be avoided all together.  There are a variety of pills available on the market today and these pills vary in the amount of hormones that they contain.  If you are experiencing unwanted side effects with one version of the pill, speak to your doctor about your discomfort and they will probably be able to recommend another brand that will eliminate or diminish these side effects.  While oral contraception is easy to use, free of severe side effects and highly effective against preventing pregnancy, it is not at all effective against preventing sexually transmitted diseases and if you are not positive that your partner is free of disease, you should always use another safe sex method to prevent these diseases.

Practicing safe sex can involve taking measures to avoid pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases or both.  While abstinence is the only safe sex method that is 100% effective against pregnancy and sexually transmitted there are other highly effective options for preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.  Monogamy with a disease free partner and condoms can help to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.  Condoms along with birth control pills are also effective in terms of preventing pregnancy.

Filed Under: Dating Tagged With: ,

10 Tips for Blind Dating

November 18, 2008 By 1 Comment

In many ways blind dating is no different than any other type of dating.  The basic elements of dating still exist but you do need to exercise more caution in a blind date.  Like any other date you want a blind date to go well so that you can ensure yourself a second date.  However, while it is important to exercise caution in all types of dating it's even more important in blind dating.  Another factor unique to blind dating is getting set up with a great date.  While this may not always be in your hands there are some ways that you can take some initiative in this area.

Like any date the key to a blind date is setting yourself up for a second date.  Arranging a fun date and being interesting to your date are two keys to achieving a second date.  In making conversation on a blind date, it is important to take an interest in what your date has to say.  Doing this will let them know that you are interested in getting to know them better.  Also, try speaking about subjects that you really enjoy.  This will make you not only sound more natural but will also make you sound more interesting.

Dressing to impress is also critical to a blind date.  In meeting someone for the first time you will want to ensure that you make a good first impression.  You don't always know how much a blind date already knows about you but it doesn't hurt to show up for the date looking as though you have put a great deal of effort into your appearance.  You're date will appreciate the effort and be flattered by your going out of your way to impress them.

One key factor to blind dating is to exercise caution in meeting your date.  Even if you are being set up by a close friend you can't be positive that they know the person they are setting you up with very well.  It's best to set up an initial meeting in a well lit and populated location.  Never agree to meet someone you don't know at a secluded location.  While your blind date may be a wonderful person with no intentions of hurting you, it's best to exercise caution on a blind date.

Another factor unique to the blind dating situation is getting yourself set up with a great date.  You may have several friends that are interested in setting you up with a friend or relative whom they think is just perfect for you but try not to agree to go on a blind date that is set up by someone who doesn't know you very well.  If they don't know you well, then don't trust them to choose a date for you.  However, if you have a friend who does know you very well, don't hesitate to drop hints about what you are looking for in a date.  Those who know you best are most likely to set you up with a compatible blind date.

Making an honest effort to have a good time on your date is another tip that can lead to a successful blind date.  If you go into a blind date with the attitude that things won't work out, you will most likely unconsciously put a damper on the date.  Your date may sense your lack of enthusiasm and in turn won't be inspired to put an effort into having a good time either.

Another tip for blind dating is to be sure to end the date appropriately.  Many people may recommend that when going on a blind date you have a backup plan in place such as having a friend call you shortly after the date starts to give you an excuse to leave if things aren't going well but doing this just isn't right.  Instead extend your blind date the same common courtesy that you would any other date and be willing to complete the entire date.  If neither party is having a good time, it's acceptable to end the date early and just agree that you weren't compatible but don't be too quick to give up on the date.  Also, at the conclusion of the date be honest about your feelings towards your date.  If things just didn't work out, don't be afraid to let them know instead of offering empty promises of future dates.  However, if you truly enjoyed your date, let your partner know and take the opportunity to suggest a second date.

Bringing a friend along is another tip for blind dating.  This is helpful for a couple of reasons.  First if your blind date had any malicious intentions towards you, having a friend along is likely to spoil his plan.  Secondly a friend may be able to ease the tension and break the ice by getting the conversation started.  While the addition of an extra person on a date may seem awkward, having them there can provide emotional spirit and an additional comfort level.

Even if the date is going well, another tip for blind dating is to end the date after 2-3 hours.  This is an adequate amount of time for two people to get to know each other on a date and determine whether or not they would be interested in a second date.  Blind dates that last longer than this often reach a point where the couple runs out of things to talk about and the date can stagnate leaving a negative feeling at the end of the date.  Keeping the date short can help you to end the date on a positive note and will leave you with more to talk about on a second date.

Being yourself is important on any date but it's critical on a blind date.  A blind date deals with someone who does not know you so it's important to give them a true sense of yourself on your date.  You may get away with pretending to be something you are not on the first date but it may lead to trouble in future dates as your date realizes you were phony on the first date.

Finally, treat your blind date with the same courtesy that you would any other date.  You may not know the person you are dating but it is important to arrive on time, be polite and put an honest effort into the date.  Your blind date is just as deserving of these courtesies as any other person you have dated.  A blind date is no excuse to let your manners lapse and mistreat your date.

For the most part blind dating does not differ from any other dating situation.  However, there are a few things unique to blind dating of which you should be aware.  Most importantly it is critical that you not put yourself in danger by agreeing to meet a blind date in a secluded location.  Another unique aspect of the blind date is that you are often set up by a friend or family member so you have the opportunity to learn what they think would be a suitable match for you.  Beyond the specifics related to blind dating, the rules of regular dating still hold true.  If you are polite, genuine, fun and interested in your date you will be likely to score a second date.

Filed Under: Dating Tagged With: ,

10 Tips For a More Exciting Relationship

November 18, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Most relationships are very exciting in the beginning but if you have been in your current relationship for awhile already you may have noticed that the initial excitement you experienced is starting to waiver and you and your partner may be settling into a dull routine.  As a relationship progresses one or both partners may be guilty of settling into complacency and may not strive to keep the element of excitement in their relationship.  The following are a few tips for ensuring that your relationship stays as exciting as it was in the beginning.

Never underestimate the value of spontaneity in a relationship.  Too often relationships lose their excitement because the mates fall into a routine that becomes boring as time goes by.  Don't be afraid to suggest new activities in your relationship or to try new things on a whim.  Being spontaneous doesn't have to involve big decisions it can be as simple as picking up something new at the grocery store and trying a new recipe for dinner.  Whatever you do, just let your instincts take over for a minute instead of relying on rationality.  Anything you do that is spontaneous may not work out as well as if you had planned out every last detail but just go with the flow and you'll find your relationship taking a turn for the better.

Exploring a new location together is another way to bring the excitement back into your relationship.  Whether you plan an elaborate trip to an exotic location or just take the bus to a nearby city that you have never visited your adventure together will help spice up your romance.  Take your time exploring the new location and enjoy the foods and atmosphere that the new place has to offer.  Exploring new cities can help bring the thrill back to your relationship.

Still another way to spice up a waning relationship is to sign up for an instructional class together such as a cooking, dancing or pottery class.  Working together to learn a new skill will draw the two of you closer as you strive to accomplish a goal together.  A class will enable you and your partner to interact in a new way.  This new interaction will help to pull you out of a rut.

Spending a night at a hotel is another way to restore the excitement in your relationship.  Intimacy is very important in a relationship and if you and your partner have found that this aspect of your relationship has lost it's spice, it's time to shake things up a bit.  Choose a romantic hotel, preferably one with a cozy restaurant.  Begin by having a wonderful candlelight dinner in the restaurant and then proceed to the room that you have reserved.  Setting the mood with candles and dim lighting is also suggested.  A night in a different location such as a romantic hotel will go a long way towards rekindling your intimate relationship.

Another way to bring the excitement back into your relationship is to set up a date night.  While you may see each other daily and even go out to dinner every Friday night, setting up a date night outside of your usual schedule will enhance your relationship.  Don't just schedule a night to go out to dinner but treat each of these date nights as if they were first dates.  Go all out getting yourself dressed up and take special care in your appearance.  Prepare for your date night as if you were really trying to make a good first impression.  Going out of your way to have at least one night of fun and romance a week will help add a little zing to your relationship.

Giving your mate gifts for no reason at all is another way to get your relationship back on track.  You may have lavished gifts on your partner early in the relationship but as the relationship progressed you may not have done so as frequently.  Small, meaningful gifts given just to make your partner happy will let them know that they are still always on your mind just as they were in the beginning of the relationship.

The simple act of holding hands can also add excitement back into a relationship.  This intimate gesture conveys a sense of security but it also lets your partner know that you want to be close to them at all times.  Many couples hold hands everywhere they go early in a relationship but don't do so later on.  Try grabbing your partners hand as you are out running errands together.  They will be touched by the sentiment and will be happy to be sharing a sense of closeness with you again.

A kiss is still another way to bring the excitement back into your relationship.  You may have gotten into the habit of giving your mate a kiss on the cheek or a quick peck on the lips when you see them after a long day of work.  Trying kissing them with passion the next time you see them to catch them by surprise and really let you know not only how much you love them but how attractive you find them as well.

Having a common interest can also promote excitement in a relationship.  If there is an activity that you both enjoy doing, make it something that the two of you do together often.  For example if you both enjoy hiking make plans to go hiking every Saturday morning and each time you go out make it a little different by exploring a new location or setting new goals for yourselves.  This will give the two of you a chance to reconnect while enjoying each other's company.  Having a ritualistic activity that you and your partner enjoy together creates closeness and intimacy that can help put the excitement back into your relationship.

Offering your partner a massage when they are worn out and tired can also bring the excitement back to your relationship.  A massage can be a very sensual and intimate experience.  Additionally offering a massage lets your partner know that you can see that they are stressed out and exhausted.  They will appreciate your putting them first in the relationship and this will help bring back the excitement in your relationship.

Over time a relationship may lose some of the excitement that it had in the very beginning.  While this may be troublesome it is also completely normal and also reversible.  Noticing the lack of excitement in your relationship is the first step to restoring that excitement.  It may take a little work but with a few simple actions you can be on your way to an exciting relationship.

Filed Under: Relationships Tagged With: ,

10 No-Stress First Date Ideas

November 18, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Asking a person out can be stressful enough but once you've found someone to agree to going on a date with you, you may find yourself under the immense pressure of planning a first date.  Planning a first date can be stressful because you want everything to go smoothly and you also want to set yourself up for a second date.  The ideal first date offers the couple a chance to get to know each other in a casual atmosphere that doesn't put too much pressure on them to keep up a constant stream of small talk.  While first dates are the perfect opportunity to get to know someone new, if you are apprehensive about too much conversation on the first date, you can plan a date that focuses more on an activity than on conversation.  This type of date which focuses on a fun filled activity may be beneficial in leading to a second date.  First dates don't have to be stressful and there are many activities that are perfect for whatever type of first date you are looking to have.

Dinner theater is a perfect no-stress first date idea.  The atmosphere is usually cozy and romantic and provides the perfect blend of conversation and entertainment.  While a traditional dinner date can lead to awkward pauses in the conversation and the stress of juggling dinner and conversation, a dinner theater alleviates this stress because the meal is usually served during the performance.  This allows you to eat your meal without having to worry about small talk.  Intermissions are a great opportunity for the couple to get to know each other and if you have trouble with a conversation starter you can always fall back on talking about the performance.

Another no-stress first date idea is the aquarium or a museum.  The casual atmosphere alleviates the normal pressures of first dates.  There is so much to see and do at these facilities that you will not be lacking things to talk about or do.  You can spend a few hours wandering through the exhibits and really get to know your date.  Be sure to ask questions about what your date likes or doesn't like about the exhibits.  Being inquisitive will give you a better understanding of your date's personality.

Theme parks are also a great no-stress first date idea.  Everybody loves the chance to be a kid again and the opportunity to spend a day on thrill rides is a great way to spend a first date.  The long lines give you plenty of time to talk and get to know each other and you may find that every time the conversation starts to wane, you've made it to the front of the line and it's your turn to jump onboard and enjoy the ride.  The exhilaration of thrill rides may loosen inhibitions and bring a couple on a first date closer together.

If you are nervous about conversation, you might want to try the traditional movie and dinner first date.  The movie portion of the date takes the stress of conversation off of your shoulders and afterwards at dinner you have an instant conversation starter.  If you can't think of anything to talk about, you can always ask her what she thought of the movie to spark up a conversation.  Additionally you may find that after spending a few hours in a theater you already feel closer to your date and conversation comes easier than anticipated.

If conversation is your strong point and you're are not at all worried about keeping a conversation going a great no-stress date idea for you may be a coffee shop.  This is an environment where there is little to do except talk to your date.  This is perfect for the person who enjoys the art of conversation and is really looking forward to getting to know their date.

A white water rafting trip can be a terrific no-stress date idea.  Well, it may not be completely no-stress as the rapids can get pretty intense but it can be free of dating stress.  Rafting is a fun an adventurous activity where you have the opportunity to bond by working together to navigate your raft through rapids and enjoy the excitement of riding the rapids.  If you are not an experienced rafter, be sure to arrange to have this trip professionally guided so that you are not putting yourself in danger.

Still another no-stress first date idea is to spend some time volunteering.  You can make arrangements for you and your date to spend a few hours volunteering at either a soup kitchen or an animal shelter or any other non-profit organization you like.  This situation gives you a specific task to focus on and takes the stress off of the date.  It also gives you the opportunity to see whether or not your date is interested in helping others or not.  Make sure to check into this activity ahead of time because many places will not allow you to come in to volunteer unless you have completed a short introductory class beforehand.

Taking a course can be another great no-stress first date idea.  Many colleges offer courses on a variety of subjects and you are bound to find one that will be of interest to you.  For example a cooking class might be a fun first date idea.  You will have the opportunity to learn a new skill together and will probably leave at the end of the night with a really tasty dish that you can enjoy together.  Working together will alleviate the stress of a first date and will give you the opportunity to get to know each other in a casual environment.

Many cities offer singles or couples group bike rides or hikes.  Taking advantage of one of these opportunities can lead to a no-stress first date.  These activities can be fun because you are outdoors enjoying nature and you have the opportunity to get some exercise.  These activities also often include scheduled breaks in a scenic location which can be a great time to really talk to your date and get to know them a little.

One final no-stress first date idea is a trip to a fun center that offers mini-golf and arcade games.  Engaging in a game of miniature golf or squaring off by playing some video games is a fun and competitive way to spend your first date.  The activities are lighthearted and fun and introducing the element of competition really loosens people up so you and your date will probably have an easy time getting to know each other.

The key to a successful first date is to plan activities that are fun and entertaining without placing too much pressure on the couple.  Finding relaxing ways to get to know your date will ensure that your first date is a no-stress event that leads to a second date.  A completely no-stress date is one that both parties enjoy and one that allows the couple to engage in a balance of fun activity and meaningful conversation without putting too much emphasis on any one aspect of the date.

Filed Under: Dating Tagged With: , ,
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