How should a Condom be used?

Though seemingly simple, a certain protocol needs to be followed when using a condom for contraception

1. A new condom should be used for every act of coitus.
2. Condoms are available in pre-tested, pre-sterilized packs and need not be tested prior to use.
3. It is to be rolled onto the erect penis just prior to insertion. Practice of delaying and putting it on just before ejaculation should be avoided.
4. It should be removed immediately after ejaculation otherwise the penis becomes flaccid and the semen is likely to spill into the vagina.
5. For removal, it is to be held on to the base of the penis, and should be withdrawn along with the penis.
6. It may be used with some spermicidal jelly to maximize its contraceptive effect.

What is virginity?

The word ‘virgin’ means one who has not had sexual intercourse, which may be verified by an intact hymen. However, a girl whose hymen is intact may have had intercourse; whereas a girl who has never had intercourse may not have an intact hymen. The idea of chastity and virginity needs to be clarified. There are virgin individuals who are not chaste and chaste individuals who are not physiologically virgin.

Is it a fact that girls who menstruate early also tend to begin intercourse early?

No. The timing of coitus depends upon individual sex drive, situational factors and sociocultural background.

Does pre-menstrual tension affect sexuality?

Yes, it does. Women tend to become irritable with associated symptoms such as nausea, backache and breast tenderness. There is a feeling of discomfort in the pelvic region and, at times, there may be emotional disturbances and varying degrees of depression. In some, however, it is found that the sex drive is enhanced, perhaps resulting from increased pelvic congestion, insufficient to cause discomfort but sufficient to cause intense pelvic ‘awareness’.

Do oral contraceptive pills prevent pre-menstrual tension?

Yes, oral contraceptive pills do prevent premenstrual tension in about 50% and painful periods in over 90% of the women.

What s the difference between a transvestive and a transsexual?

A transvestite is an individual who becomes sexually aroused by donning the apparel of the opposite sex, and a transsexual is one who strongly fools that he or she belongs to the opposite sex.

How can one diagnose transsexualism?

Transsexualism is an overriding feeling of discomfort with one’s anatomic sex and a constant desire to be rid of one’s genitals to become a member of the opposite sex. In other words, a male mind in a female’s body and vice versa. The diagnosis is made only if the disturbance has been continuous for at least two years; if there is no evidence of psychological disorder like schizophrenia; and is not associated with physical intersex or genetic abnormality. The differential diagnosis must be made among true transsexuaiism, transvestism and homosexuality. Physician should be aware that Gender transposition might occur in cases of severe personality disorganization associated with psychosis. A behavioral sex change may emerge even later in life in certain rare cases of temporal lobe epilepsy or as a consequence of senile dementia.

Are eunuchs transsexuals?

No. Eunuchs are not necessarily transsexuals. They are castrated males, who have had their testicles removed prior to puberty so that the secondary sexual characters do not develop. As against this, transsexuals are individuals who have an overwhelming desire to be the opposite sex.