HPV vaccine?

How do you get the HPV vaccine at Dartmouth, and how much does it cost?

The HPV Vaccine is given in 3 doses, and you can make your first appointment at Dick's House. The second dose is given 8 weeks after first and the final dose should be administered 16 weeks after the 2nd. There is some flexibility in this, so if you're worried about off-terms, etc. you should still make the appointment for your 1st one now and discuss your travel plans with the clinician you see.

If you have the Dartmouth Student Health Insurance and get the shots at Dick's House, the full cost is covered. If you are under 18, the State of New Hampshire will cover the cost. If you are 19 or older, you will be charged $125 for each shot (the hospital is over $200 per shot- eeep), but most private health insurance companies do cover most or all of this- you should contact your insurance company for details on their reimbursement policy (ask whether they'll reimburse your cost if you're at your college's health center) and how to seek reimbursement.

Hope that's informative!

Blogger's Comment on Pubic Hair

"I used to shave all the time when I was younger because I thought that is what guys liked, but one of my boyfriends told me it weirded him out that I shaved because it made me look like a little girl. Also, it was VERY ITCHY just like the sexpert post says, and ingrown hairs were a regular problem. So I stopped, and now all I ever do is shave my bikini line, and trim every now and then if I feel like it. It is a personal choice, so you should do what makes you feel most comfortable and is the most stress free. And guys should respect this choice."


Thanks so much for your contribution! -Sexperts

What's the Deal with Pubic Hair!?

I'm very ashamed to admit this, but I'm really self conscious about my pubic "hairstyle," as it were. Obviously I've realized that most porn actresses have no hair down there, and so probably men "prefer" that. However, I'm not really interested in pleasing men, I'm more interested in looking "normal," aka, doing what most college women do. It seems gross to me to let it all grow out, but when I trim it or shave it I feel slutty. Also it's a hassle to keep it all shaved off. What do most college women, or women in general, do to their pubic hair, and what is hygienic in this regard?

We're so glad you asked this question. It's a very common concern with very little dialogue! Although you probably want a more concrete (and less fluffy) response than this, a person's pubic hair style is honestly a completely personal choice- so to answer what is "normal" is really tough (or impossible). While we haven't done a poll to answer this question, we agree with some text from "teenwire.com"

"Whether a [a person] chooses to shave, trim, or remove pubic hair is ultimately a personal choice. In no way do [individuals] have to shave (or remove) their pubic hair. Shaving in such sensitive areas can lead to razor burn and ingrown hairs. However, some [individuals] choose to shave or use other methods (such as waxing) to remove pubic hair for cosmetic reasons. If a [person] chooses to shave (or remove) [his/her] pubic hair, the amount that is removed is up to [him/her]." source: www.teenwire.com

As a rather ambiguous response, the key word in the excerpt above is "choice." The "hair" question is probably so common - and kind of embarrassing - because there are SO many mixed message. The adult entertainment industry definitely portrays sexy bodies as hairless bodies. Celebrities like Denise Richards and Gwyneth Paltrow have discussed their salon waxing adventures, and Jessica Simpson has announced that she takes care of her own (but who knows what style) rather than have a stranger see her "wawa," as she put it. Popular culture has also provided for waxing to be featured in Sex and the City" and in many women's magazines. But since most women are neither porn stars nor celebrities, where does that leave us? Albeit disconcerting, it is necessary to acknowledge the pressure felt by those images of mass media which all-too-often dictate pubic beauty standards.

In terms of hygiene, pubic hair DOES serve a purpose, particularly with vaginas. It provides padding (there is a vagina monologue on this) and, significantly, traps germs that can cause irritation or, unfortunately, infection.

Our suggestion: consider trying the different options in stages and then decide for yourself; what do YOU like? Au natural? Shaving only the bikini line? (This is probably what most college women do, but whatever) Trimming? Removing most/all of your pubic hair? If you choose to remove all of your pubic hair, be careful. Waxing can take a certain degree of pain tolerance and shaving with a razor can produce razor burn or ingrown hairs. (not to mention, hair re-growth can be ITCHY!) Also, if you are sexually active, changing your pubic hair style can change the way sexual activity feels- in good or bad ways. Hopefully, by "testing" your different options, you can come to a style that feels right for you. Follow your heart and/or vagina ;) Confidence is probably the largest determinant of sexiness….

Perhaps our lovely fellow-blog readers would share their thoughts?

How do I know if lube is water-based and where can I get some in Hanover?

How do I know if lube is water-based and where can I get some in Hanover?

Water-based lube is an awesome lube choice- because it usually is hypoallergenic and compatible with latex. One other ingredient to inspect in lubricants is glycerin or sugar, which may cause a yeast infection in women (these ingredients are more likely to be in flavored lubicants). Since water-based lubricants can be absorbed by the skin pretty readily, this type of lubricant will likely have to be reapplied (or some saliva added to the mix). CVS usually carries "Astroglide," one of the most popular brands of water-based lube...in addition to KY warming liquid (also water-based). The Hanover CVS has a satisfactory array of intimacy products- explore! Besides KY and Astroglide, other water-based lubes should advertise as such....to be safe, you can check the ingredients list; water based lubes usually list "deionized water" as the first ingredient.

Oh, PS, there is 24-hour vending machine (accepting DA$H or cash) in the lower level (aka Basement) of Dick's House that sells AstroGlide, too. It's pretty reasonable- $5.00 for a 2.55oz bottle.

Where can I get more of the Sexperts' flavored condoms?

The flavored condoms that Sexperts distributed at this year's SexFest are the Trustex brand Flavored Condoms and you can order them online (We haven't seen them available at stores in the area). They are available in assorted flavor combinations or if you had a favorite flavor, you can just order that one!

In addition, if your student organization (or dorm/UGA) hasn't already taken advantage of the Health Service's "GREAT CONDOM OFFER*" this academic year, you could order a whole case for 1/2 the price! Dick's House will split the cost with your group. It works like this:

1. Call (646-9427) or email Molly in Health Resources to request your organization or residence cluster’s order.
2. When the order is received, Health Resources will inform you via blitz.
3. Come to Health Resources on the 3rd floor of Dick's House with a check for 1/2 the price of your order.

Regular, lubricated condoms can also be purchased for a really reduced price in the Dick's House Vending Machine, 24 hours/day (Lower/basement Level of Dick's House). The machine accepts cash or Dash (slide your card vertically). Check it out!

Also, if you stop by Health Resources on the 3rd floor of Dick's House, they will share a handful of condoms with you.

Hope that helps!

PS I'll go leave a few flavored ones in the "Sex Room" on 1st Floor Robo :)

Beginner Sex Toy!?

What is a good "beginner" sex toy? What is something that could spice up sex without being too over the top?

For either hetero or men couples, we'd suggest something simple and "external" to get started- perhaps one of the erection rings with a bullet vibrator. (Most are advertised for hetero couples experiencing vaginal intercourse, but they are also something couples having anal intercourse may find pleasurable.) Simple vibrating cock rings are inexpensive and you can buy them at the local drugstore, which is a very easy introduction. For women couples, a clitoral stimulator strap on or harness may be appealing.

This could go on all day, but there is a great resource that will ask you personal questions and guide you thru selecting a toy that is right for you and your partner, provided by the MyPleasure.com website. There are individual pages for hetero, gay and lesbian couple. Click on Shopping, Shopping Guides, then Couples Toy Guides and you'll end up here:
http://www.mypleasure.com/store/shoppingguide/
hetero_couple.asp?cat=guideindex

You can use the guide and purchase your toys thru their site or use it to explore, then seek other options at one of our other favorites: http://goodvibes.com, www.babeland.com, www.bettersex.com, evesgarden.com!

:)

Painful penetration- Help?

"My girlfriend and I have had sex about a dozen times, but often penetration still causes her discomfort. Sometimes, she is in pain throughout the act. Is this normal? Is there anyway to alleviate her pain?"

To answer this question, we looked at a number of medical sites and found we most liked Columbia's "Ask Alice!" site, so we adapted it. The short answer is that intercourse shouldn't be painful, so your girlfriend should make an appointment to speak with a medical provider and get more personalized feedback, but a more developed answer (thank you Alice!) is below:

There are any number of reasons why one might be experiencing painful intercourse. The most common reasons are poor communication skills, lack of trust or commitment, and sexual ignorance. However, it sounds like in your case, it is caused by none of the above. There are also several physical reasons you might experience pain during intercourse (all are remedy-able):

• Painful penetration -- vaginismus: This is a strong, involuntary tightening of your vaginal muscles -- a spasm of the outer third of your vagina which makes entrance by the penis acutely painful. This can be physically or psychologically based.
• Local infection: Some vaginal infections can be present in a non acute, visually unnoticeable form. The friction of a penis can cause the infection to flare up.
• Insufficient lubrication: If your natural secretions of lubrication are not enough, or your timing is off, the friction of a penis in your vagina could be quite painful. In this case, using an extra lubricant, such as Astroglide (available in Dick's House) might help.
• Tightness in the vaginal entrance: The first few times you have intercourse, an unstretched hymen can cause pain. And whenever you are tense and preoccupied, the vaginal entrance is not likely to loosen up enough, therefore making getting the penis in hurtful. In addition, if you try to get the penis in before you are fully aroused, you might still be too tight, even though you are lubricated enough. Slow down and take your time.
• Pain deep in the pelvis: This can be caused by tears in the ligaments that support the uterus, infections of the cervix, uterus or tubes, endometriosis, or cysts or tumors on the ovaries. All of these may be medically treatable.

Whatever the cause, your girlfriend doesn't need to put up with the pain! Get a good gynecological exam at Dick's House (call x6-9401 or use BannerStudent online to make an appointment), and find out what's going on. In the meantime, continue to find other ways to give each other pleasure. Feel good!

I can only have an orgasm with my legs straight and tensed

I can only have an orgasm with my legs straight and tensed. Is this weird?

The truth is a lot of people wonder if they look or act silly when they're feeling especially pleasured during sexual activity. And, the truth is that a lot of people do really different things- some people moan loudly, some scrunch up their face, curl their toes, even laugh! If you're comfortable being sexual with your partner, it's likely that it doesn't really matter all too much what happens when you orgasm. Regardless, try to focus on the orgasmic feeling you've just achieved, rather than your appearance. And, keep those orgasms coming!

is keeping your virginity at at dartmouth abnormal?

i'm an '11 guy who has chosen to keep his virginity thus far because i haven't met the right girl. now, though, i'm starting to feel more self-conscious about it, because i feel like very few other men at dartmouth make this choice, and i get uncomfortable when they ask me about my sex life. i know it's your job to tell me that i should make sexual decisions the way i want to and that lots of other people are like me, but seriously, at dartmouth, is this really abnormal for someone who isn't a social pariah?

So, you're right: We are going to tell you that you are not abnormal and that your choice to abstain from sex is thoughtful, mature and all up to you. But, let's get some data to "back us up".

A study of undergraduates at four universities published in 2005 shows how college students' perceptions of their peers' sexual activity can be exaggerated. The study, revealed that 80 percent of students had 0 or 1 sexual partner during the preceding year, only 22 percent of those students believed their fellow students had one or fewer partners. 59 percent of students reported having no sexual activity within the past 30 days. Most participants, misleadingly, thought that other students had at least 3 partners during the previous year.

Recent Data from Dartmouth Student survey (from 2005 National College Health Assessment Data) self-reported that 31% of students abstained from sex in the past school year (34% men and 29% women). However, when asked how they perceived their peers' sexual experiences, only 1.4% (2.4% men and 0.7% women) believed that their peers (the same people answering the survey) were abstaining from sex in the past school year. We "talk" sex a lot! (and keep it mostly to "talk")

This is your choice (which is supported by at least 30% of Dartmouth's men). And our belief is that having your first time be with someone you really care about - when you are both ready - will increase the odds that it will be GREAT!

Masturbation Headache?

When I masturbate I get a terrible rush of pain in the back of my head (not my penis head, the one on my shoulders). I did a google search and this is surprisingly common, but what should I do? This started 2 weeks ago and I'm too embarrassed to go to Dicks House and I'm afraid that if I have sex with my partner, one of these headaches will come along and ruin it. Having an orgasm until your head explodes may sound nice, but I'm sure it won't feel that way.

As you found in your research, this reaction is fairly common, and we've heard from others who have experienced this as well. It's possible that your headache is a variation of a migraine headache, called 'orgasmic headache'. However, while it is completely understandable that it may feel embarrassing to share this information in person with someone, it is really important that you do.

Considering this experience is a recent development for you, you should make an appointment with a medical provider to have the concern checked out, as there are other neurological issues that may be need to be assessed. As a Dartmouth student, you can request an appointment with a male provider at Dick's House, which may make the conversation a bit less intimidating, but either way, it's important to get to a doctor's office.

Thanks for asking- this will be helpful information for many men!