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“Not Tonight Hunny, I Have A Headache”

Posted by Guest Blogger on May 27th, 2010

“Not tonight hunny, I have a headache”. If you have been in a long term relationship, my guess is you’ve heard that famous phrase at least once, but new evidence suggests this will no longer be a valid excuse when palming off a lover.
According to sexologist Eric Garrison, “Sex is known to relieve headaches and sinus pressure since it increases blood flow to the head”.
Curing headaches is not the only health benefit related to sexual activity; according to some sex experts, sex is believed to strengthen your immune system and lower your blood pressure too.

While there have always been claims made about the physical benefits of healthy sexual activity, there is now evidence that suggests that a healthy sex life seems to influence many factors of one’s life, not just the immediate physical pleasure of the act. Brazil’s Minister of Health Jose Gomes Temporao suggested to his citizens that sex five times a week may help with diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, two problems that affect a large amount of Brazil’s population.

Of course encouraging sexual activity for the health benefits cannot go without stating safe sex practices. Having lots of sexual activity can benefit you as long as you remember to protect yourself. Having regular sexual activity with the reasoning of health benefits cannot be taken in a vacuum. Regular sex that is unprotected and/or with multiple partners can put you at risk for STDs such as HIV, opening up a whole new set of health issues. So my advice is… in order to enjoy the newly found benefits of sex – be responsible with it.

“So where’s the proof?” I hear you ask. Well, Jamie Feldman, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, stated that a recent study which was posted in the British Medical Journal showed that in a cross-section of 6000 Americans ages 25 to 84, those that had a more active sex life were found to live healthier and longer lives. Not only does sex cause the release of the ‘happy’ hormones – Dopamine and Cortisol but according to sex therapist Israel Helfand, it can also lower the blood pressure over a period of time if “done vigorously”.

Overall the situation in itself is not rocket science according to a clinical sexologist, Ian Kerner, Ph.D, “People who have healthy sex lives are likely to have a healthier lives overall. People who have sex more often are more likely to go to the gym, eat healthy and take care of themselves. But if you are sedentary and have high blood pressure, this definitely effects on libido.”

What do you think? Do the potential health benefits of regular sex get your heart racing?

And in your experience, does a healthy sex life make you happier in other aspects of your life?

Drop us a comment…

This is a guest blog post by Raycy Rousseau

Raycy is a budding journalist and has history in social media, PR and blogging. The main thing that attracted Raycy to blogging for MTV Staying Alive is her burning passion for social justice.

If you want to read similar articles to this one you may want to check out:

Are One Night Stands Worth The Hassle?

Condom Review

Guest Blog: Kicesie

Married But Available

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Condom Review

Posted by Guest Blogger on May 19th, 2010

The first time my boyfriend and I had sex was not that great. It wasn’t the first time for either of us but his previous girlfriends had used the “pull out” method and he had never worn a condom before.

I personally wasn’t interested in trying that method – pulling out doesn’t even prevent pregnancy effectively let alone catching an STD such as HIV.

(Photo posed by models)

My Boyfriend complained that it felt too small and was “cutting off circulation” and that he couldn’t feel anything. He just couldn’t stay hard. He is pretty well endowed but I wondered if condoms could be too small or too narrow. I went straight on the Internet and found out the following three points:

Condoms come in several different sizes and widths.
It’s important to buy the right size – If the condom doesn’t fit well it cant provide the best level of protection.
Latex condoms are stretchy and it’s normal for guys to feel like its “tight” the first few times.

(Source: http://www.avert.org/teens-condoms.htm)

I can’t remember what kind of condom we used that first time but by the time our “research” was complete we felt like condom connoisseurs.

We worked our way through several of the varieties, searching for the one he felt most comfortable in. I must admit it was kind of awkward and uncomfortable to start with but eventually we began to have a lot of fun with it.

It was important that we were both able to say what we liked and didn’t and express what we were feeling. I definitely think this has brought us closer together as a couple

For us, the winning combination was Durex Elite condoms paired with Durex Play lubricant.

But don’t take my word for it – my advice would be to try as many of the condoms out there until you find the ones that are best for you.

Do you have a favorite brand or type of condom? If so share the love and drop it in a comment below

This post is by Guest Blogger Sarah Quill

Sarah Quill is a human rights activist, professional vagabond and part time stand-up paddleboard instructor. Originally from Hawaii, she recently relocated to NYC but has called Mexico, Scotland and Egypt home. As well as blogging for MTV, she has worked as a nanny, dolphin trainer, ATV instructor, lifeguard and prep-cook.

If you would like to read more articles about condoms, check out the article links below.

Facing The Facts

Are One Night Stands Worth The Hassle?

Guest Blog: Kicesie Drew

Busting Condom Myths

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Shawn Decker Vlog: Battle Of The Bands

Posted by Staying Alive Editor on May 18th, 2010

Check out MTV Staying Alive Ambassador Shawn Decker’s third tour vlog with band Synthetic Division.

In this vlog Shawn talks about what happened when Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols performed on the same night in a different venue in Pittsburgh, California.

Naturally Shawn called for the people of Pittsburgh to pledge their allegiance and attend their gig over Rotten’s. You will have to watch the video to find out who won “The Battle Of The Bands”.

If you haven’t watched them already, make sure you check out Shawn’s previous Vlogs; the first talking about his opening gig in Pennsylvania and the second on his exit from the H&M Fashion Against AIDS Competition and upcoming gig in New York.

Drop Shawn a question in the comment box below, whether you are attending one of the remaining shows, have a question about him becoming an MTV Staying Alive Ambassador, or about his HIV Status. We will make sure all questions get to him and that he answers them on his next vlog.

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Are One Night Stands Really Worth The Hassle?

Posted by Guest Blogger on May 18th, 2010

Not one of my girlfriends has ever had a one-night stand… How about my boyfriends? Ah, well that’s a different story altogether…

“Men’s biology equips them to be ready for sex most of the time” – Margaret Paul, Ph.D.

Now I don’t have a Ph.D, but I know lots of guys that think it’s okay to have casual sex, and then claim it meant nothing and it was all for the thrill.

I decided to put myself in a guy’s position, after all “Anything boys can do girls can do better,” right? Let’s see if these one-night stands are all they’re hyped to be.

It is a Friday night. A couple of friends and I go out for drinks at an unfamiliar place with people we don’t know. The music is loud, the lights are dim, and though we aren’t drinking that much, the flirting and the fun atmosphere seem to be getting to us.

Guys approach; and, for the ones we like, there is playful banter and flirty behaviour. It feels good to be pursued and thought of as sexy.
There is one particular guy I can’t get out of my head. He is taunting me with his non-committal but too all-too-frequent stares… catching my eye but removing his gaze as soon as I glance over. There is electricity between us and I don’t even know his name.

Eventually he comes over. I pretend not to notice him. My heart quickens and I know that my cheeks are flushed. He begins to speak to me in that teasing lilt I was expecting. I am thrilled – I feel empowered.

We leave together. I am in control!

The thought of being in such a situation is… exhilarating! When he kisses me it is unlike anything I have ever felt. I pull away in sheer astonishment at the unmistakable chemistry intrinsic to forbidden fruit…

As soon as it’s over I begin to panic.

He didn’t use a condom! When I started to awkwardly mumble about protection he told me not to worry and that he didn’t have anything. In the heat of the moment I remember thinking, “why spoil the mood – It’s just this one time”.

But I start to think, I don’t even know this guy’s name, or have anyway of contacting him, (which I suppose was the whole point of the one night stand), but what if I have caught something, or what if I do get pregnant? My mind fills with things that could go wrong… How could I be so stupid?

Fast forward 3 months.

I’m glad to say I’m not pregnant, and after waiting 12 weeks, my window period, I have tested negative for HIV too. But despite this positive news I feel so stupid, I’ve had a lucky escape but it could have been so different. I put myself at risk and with someone I just met, and for what?

So after putting myself in a situation that people all around the world put themselves in week in, week out – I can honestly say the risk far outweighed the reward and I will not be doing it again.

But what about you? Do you think one night stands are worth the hassle? Does the thrill of the chase of the night match up to the risk that you have to face the morning after if you don’t use protection?

Are you cool with one night stands so long as they’re safe?

Drop us a comment below….

This post was by Guest Blogger Candy

Let us know what you think of this post and drop us a comment if you would like to see another article from Candy…

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Become An AIDS 2010 Volunteer

Posted by Staying Alive Editor on May 17th, 2010

if you keep tabs on our Facebook Fanpage or Twitter you will know that on 18-23 July we will be attending the International AIDS Conference, (AIDS 2010) in Vienna.

Here’s an opportunity for you to be part of it too.

The organisers of AIDS 2010 are looking for volunteers to assist in the running of the event and this is your opportunity to unite in the global response to HIV.

With over 25,000 people likely to be in attendance, this is your chance to be part of one of the biggest debates around issues relating to HIV/AIDS in history. This years topic is Rights Here, Right Now.

MTV Staying Alive will be there and have some really exciting stuff going on, but we don’t want to ruin the surprise, so come and see us for yourselves.

Volunteer Benefits

· International experience at the world’s largest conference on AIDS
· Free access to conference sessions when not on volunteer duty
· Certificate of Appreciation confirming your volunteer activity
· Lunch each day

How to Become a Volunteer

If you are interested in applying; visit www.aids2010.org/volunteer.aspx

All they ask is that you’re over the age of 18 on 18th July 2010.

One potential sticking point is that potential volunteers are responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements.

Further Information

For any more information on this you can check out the AIDS 2010 Volunteer site and follow the AIDS 2010 Volunteer Twitter for live updates.

If you would like to any additional information or would like to ask any questions directly, drop the AIDS 2010 organisers an email at volunteer@aids2010.org.

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I Love Africa DEUX Vlog: Celebration

Posted by Staying Alive Editor on May 14th, 2010

Check out Suzanne “Africa” Engo’s newest vlog post about her I Love Africa DEUX project in which she is running across Africa and Europe to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in Africa.

In this video, “Africa” attends an event to celebrate her first major milestone of the project; running from Milan to Torino. It’s clear from this vlog that Africa’s mission has struck a chord with some very important people in Italy, such as Ellio Locatelli, Director of IAAF and Luigi Chiabrera, Director of the Turin Marathon, along with several admirers along the way.

http://www.vimeo.com/11739973

The journey is young and “Africa” is only in her first country, let alone continent. “Africa” will be keeping us posted with regular vlog updates so keep checking the site.

Don’t forget “Africa” is doing this run to raise money for The MTV Staying Alive Foundation and if you would like to donate some cash visit the I Love Africa First Giving Page.

Lastly, Africa will be taking questions at every stage of her journey, so drop her any questions below and you might get mentioned in her next vlog.

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I Love Africa DEUX Vlog

Posted by Staying Alive Editor on May 13th, 2010

Check out Suzanne “Africa” Engo’s latest vlog post about her I Love Africa DEUX project in which she is running across Africa and Europe to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in Africa.

In this vlog, “Africa” shows you around where she is staying while she is in Turin, Italy and talks a little more about the I Love Africa DEUX project – drop us a comment and let us know what you think:

http://www.vimeo.com/11648196

Don’t forget Suzanne is doing this run to raise money for The MTV Staying Alive Foundation and if you would like to donate some cash visit the I Love Africa First Giving Page.

Suzanne will be taking questions over the coming weeks and shouting you out on camera so if you want to ask her something, drop her a comment below.

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Shawn Decker Tour Vlog: H&M Concession

Posted by Staying Alive Editor on May 13th, 2010

MTV Staying Alive Ambassador Shawn Decker has made his second tour vlog with band Synthetic Division

Unfortunately, in this vlog Shawn announces that Synthetic Division lost out to White Lights in the H&M Fashion Against AIDS Battle Of The Bands.

But check the video – Shawn doesn’t look too fazed, after all Synthetic Division have just begun this awesome tour and will be rocking out at six more venues over the next nine days:

Shawn and Synthetic Division will be playing at The Haunt in New York later today, so catch them if you can.

If you would like to find out if Synthetic Division will be coming to an area near you, be sure to check the Synthetic Division Tour Widget.

Don’t forget to drop Shawn a question in the comment box, about anything from the tour he is on, to him becoming an MTV Staying Alive Ambassador. We will make sure all questions get to him and that he answers them on his next vlog.

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Shawn Decker Vlog

Posted by Staying Alive Editor on May 11th, 2010

MTV Staying Alive Ambassador Shawn Decker has made his first of many vlogs of his experiences on tour with his band Synthetic Division. Check it our below:

Shawn will be answering any questions put to him in the coming days, about anything from his HIV status, his life as a peer educator or his experiences in rock band Synthetic Division. If you would like to ask him a question, drop the question below and we will pass it on.

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Sorting Out The Plusses And Minuses

Posted by Guest Blogger on May 10th, 2010

You might recall the last I wrote was on the topic of nonconsensual sexual contact in Breaking The Silence where each was unaware of the other’s HIV status. Mine being HIV-positive. His being assumedly HIV-negative.

I live in a culture where anything short of screaming ‘no’ means yes, instead of yes meaning yes. I never said yes.

Let us take a look at the opposite phenomenon: consensual sexual contact where each is aware of the other’s HIV status. Stated this way, I cannot argue with the merits of such a principle. Taking it one step further, and the human in me is a little perplexed by what is called serosorting. Serosorting is the practice of actively seeking out social and sexual partners based on their like HIV status.

The idea is that transmission between HIV-positive and truly HIV-negative individuals will decrease, which is what public health professionals want. However, serosorting also may inform condom use, leading persons of like HIV status to possibly forego condoms during sexual activity.

Not to burst anyone’s bubble. But really? Call me biased, prude, too comfortable in my own skin, or whatever, but when did choosing who you have sexual contact with become based solely on HIV status?

Other things are sexually transmitted too, you know (babies included). If an HIV-positive man swept me off my feet, you bet there would be a condom involved.

Perhaps you can help me out a little, what do YOU think of serosorting? It’s obviously a controversial topic but what do you see as the main plusses and minuses of it?

P.S. To the men out there:

// I will let you catch me, so long as you know you are not going to catch anything else

// I will want to see your papers, just not on the first date. I do in fact have mine. And this blog.

// If you are going to be a jerk, please share that with me up front. That is an even better disclosure in my opinion! I will share the same courtesy.

This is a guest blog post by Nina Martinez

Nina Martinez, 26, is a public health student at Emory University in Atlanta with a focus in epidemiology. Nina’s premature birth facilitated the need for a blood transfusion that infected her with HIV when she was six weeks old in San Francisco, California.

If you liked this article, check out some of Nina Martinez’s other posts below:

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