“From the moment I started using contraceptives, my fear of an unwanted pregnancy was vanquished. I could fully indulge in my sexual desires with my partner, enjoying the thrilling spontaneity that fueled our relationship. It was a liberating experience that shattered the long-held myths and misconceptions about contraception.” Tsgereda Hailu, 26
Although the link between contraception and sexual frequency may not always register as statistically significant, it’s crucial to understand that sexual activity and intimacy are fundamental components of a healthy and happy relationship. However, it’s important to recognize that various factors can influence our libido. Hormonal imbalances, lifestyle choices, and overall physical health can all play a role in our sexual appetite. Therefore, it’s essential to consider these factors when deciding on a contraceptive method, rather than solely focusing on its impact on sexual frequency.
“One key benefit of contraception is the peace of mind it provides regarding unwanted pregnancies. This freedom from anxiety and stress allowed me to fully embrace my sexual experiences and explore my desires without any apprehension.” mentions Meron Baye, 27
Additionally, using contraception allows for a more spontaneous sexual dynamic. With no fear of an unintended pregnancy, couples can experiment with different sexual positions and forms of foreplay without the need to rush or worry about interruptions. This sense of liberation and excitement can lead to a more fulfilling and passionate sex life.
“It lessens the burden on one partner and can foster a greater sense of trust and respect within the relationship” she added
Ultimately, while the relationship between contraception and sexual frequency may not always be clear, By considering various factors that influence our libido and the benefits of contraception, couples can make informed decisions that enhance their sexual experiences and overall relationship satisfaction.
The start of intimacy is not just about physical touch, it’s about the conscious and vulnerable conversations where you discuss your boundaries, kinks, and expectations. It can be awkward and anxiety-provoking to talk about sex with your partner, but leaning into these difficult conversations is crucial to creating lifelong sexual potential. Our first conversation about sex was a bit strange, as I fumbled to explain my likes and dislikes. But then came a significant moment where he saw through my shyness and I gave it all away. Have you ever wondered where the magic of intimacy actually begins? It starts with vulnerability and the courage to confront uncomfortable topics head-on.
The thought of discussing your sexual desires with your partner may be intimidating, but it takes trust and bravery to communicate effectively. To make this conversation more enjoyable, think about what you want to create together and take risks by sharing your preferences to expand the capacity for pleasure. Even if you’re not exactly sure what you want in the bedroom, it’s important to be honest and curious. Instead of limiting yourself to the traditional definition of sex, try exploring the idea of adult fun in many different ways, with or without genitals, friction, or orgasms. Consider enrolling yourself and your partner in the idea that your sex lives can be a playground for grown-ups, full of diverse options for partnered exploration.
One of the keys to great sex is taking turns speaking and actively listening with an open mind, avoiding judgment and being willing to share feelings of shame or embarrassment. Researchers have identified several universal components of magnificent sex, including present moment awareness, synchronized connection with your partner, erotic intimacy, empathy, authenticity, vulnerability, exploration, and transcendence beyond the physical. Remember that any issues that arise in your sexual relationship can be an opportunity for growth and increased intimacy. With persistence and effort, almost any problem can be solved.
From whispered tales to heated debates, birth control has been the subject of much chatter. Yet, amidst the clutter of opinions and myths, the true benefits of contraception are often obscured.
My journey with birth control was filled with moments of distress and confusion, as I struggled to find the perfect fit for my body and lifestyle. The initial discomfort and pain I felt during intimate moments made me question if something was amiss, but little did I know, it was just the beginning of a transformative journey.
I embarked on a quest for knowledge, seeking answers to questions that plagued me. I talked to experts, read the research, and gained a deeper understanding of what my body was going through. I learned that choosing birth control is not just a personal decision, but a pivotal step in shaping our lives.
When it comes to preventing pregnancy, the world of contraception offers a diverse range of options. From short-acting methods that provide immediate protection to long-acting options that offer continuous coverage, the journey of choosing the right method can be a personal and empowering experience.
Short-acting contraceptives, such as condoms, diaphragms, and spermicides, offer a convenient and accessible solution for those who prefer to have control over their contraception at the moment. These methods provide temporary protection and require consistent use each time a person has sex to be effective.
On the other hand, long-acting contraception methods, such as IUDs and hormonal injections, offer a low-maintenance solution for those who want long-term protection. Once inserted or administered, these methods can provide coverage for several years, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a hands-off approach to birth control.
Choosing both hormonal IUD and implant have much lower doses of hormones than the pill so they are often good options for people who haven’t had great experiences with hormones in the past, like me, but know that none of them can protect against STIs. The only form of contraceptive to control STIs is a condom.
So, remember, take the time to educate yourself, ask questions, and weigh the pros and cons. Your body and your happiness are worth it. Don’t be afraid to try, fail, and try again. “The right birth control method is waiting for you, a solution to cherish and a burden to forget.”
It’s never easy to talk about this stuff, it’s nerve-racking, heartbreaking, and trembling. I have been through a tough time writing these saddest lines. It’s such a disappointing feeling to find out you have an STI but even worse when you have to tell someone, especially someone you care about. The risk of losing you is unimaginable but the risk of not telling you will hurt me even more, gradually.
So what I decided was to get my strong suit on and make the call, to tell you that more than my love, my truth matters and that is my dear I have STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection)
When I first found out that I had an STI I thought everything was ending, my life as I know it was gone, and that made me suffer countless stressful nights, it was an experience that shifted my perspective about many things in my life. But as the saying goes, what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger, and with that, I pulled myself from the pools of shame and taboos and decided to tell you that not only I’m living with STI but I am okay with it
What gave me confidence was my realization that millions of people around the world are living with STIs, and to my surprise, I have found many resources and support systems that helped me deal with my condition.
One of my scariest assumptions was that my life wouldn’t be the same after having STI and I wasn’t sure even in telling you this fearing that you would assume that I am a changed person, but nothing about me is changed, not even a strand of hair. If anything, I have learned a lot about how to take care of myself better, and to be mindful of my health decisions. I would say I’m in a good state of health and mentality, I take care of myself more than I did before, I take my treatments accordingly to my schedule and I still refer back to an incredible online support system from people who have had the same experience and can share it, which helped me escape a state of alienation and loneliness.
Although this has been a challenging experience to go through, I’m joyful that I get to tell you honestly about my conditions without fear or shame or a sense of disappointing you, it is because I care deeply about our relationship that I’ve decided to share but all of this wouldn’t be possible without the help and awareness I have got from my friends, doctors and most people like me, People who have gone through the same situation. They made me feel that it’s okay to have STIs and that the bigger lesson is to move forward with mindful decisions and confidence.
Online dating is an increasingly popular way for many young adults globally, including Ethiopia to connect and find love. With the convenience of being able to connect with potential partners from the comfort of your own home, it’s no wonder that online dating has become a popular choice for many.
However, with the increase in online dating comes the potential for danger. It’s important to be aware of the risks and to know how to stay safe while using online dating platforms. That’s why we’ve put together The Do’s and Don’ts of online dating – a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of online dating and make the most of your experience.ax
DO use a reputable dating platform or app with privacy features: Protect your personal information and ensure a safe and enjoyable online dating experience.
DON’T share personal information with someone you have just met online: Sharing personal information too soon can be dangerous, it can expose you and make you vulnerable for online scams.
DO be honest about who you are and what you’re looking for in a relationship: By being honest about who you are and what you’re looking for in a relationship, you attract the right people and avoid wasting time on incompatible matches.
DON’T ignore red flags or warning signs that a person may not be safe: Ignoring red flags or warning signs could put you in danger, so it’s important to trust your gut and stop communicating with someone if they make you feel uncomfortable or if their behavior seems suspicious.
DO always meet in a public place and let someone know where you’ll be: By meeting in a public place and letting someone know where you’ll be, you can ensure your safety and have peace of mind when meeting someone for the first time.
DON’T send inappropriate or explicit photos or messages: Sending explicit or inappropriate photos or messages can be dangerous as it can be used against you in the future.
DO always use protection when engaging in sexual activity: make sure to avoid the potential dangers associated with unprotected sex, such as the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unintended pregnancy.
DON’T EVER compromise consent: By respecting consent, you ensure that your interactions with others are safe, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
By following these simple guidelines, you can maximize the benefits and minimize the dangers of online dating. So why wait? Get started on your online dating journey today and see where it takes you!
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