Dear Sexpert,
What's the lowdown on the new HPV vaccine that came out over the summer? — Hesitantly Pondering the Vaccine
Dear HPV,
As you might know, certain types of HPV — there are over 100 strains — have been linked to cervical cancer. Other types that cause external genital warts are usually benign ... if not exactly aesthetically pleasing.
The new HPV vaccine, which is commercially called Gardasil, only protects against four strains of HPV — types 6, 11, 16 and 18 — but these strains cause approximately 70 percent of cervical cancers and 90 percent of genital warts. Types 6 and 11 are 'low-risk' types, responsible for external genital warts, but usually not cancerous. Types 16 and 18 are 'high-risk' and carry the risk of cervical cancer.
If you already have HPV, the vaccine does not cure the existing infection. Still, it might be a good idea to get vaccinated regardless, because it's highly unlikely that you would be infected by all four types of HPV targeted by the vaccine. By getting vaccinated, you could protect yourself against the types that you do not already have.
The main ingredients in the vaccine are purified inactive proteins that come from HPV Types 6, 11, 16 and 18. It might sound counterintuitive to have yourself injected with the exact thing you're trying to avoid, but this is actually how most vaccines, including the flu vaccine, allow you to build up immunity to the viruses.
The new HPV vaccine is administered in three doses over the course of six months. If you're allergic to any of the ingredients, or have an allergic reaction to the first dose, you should stay away from the subsequent doses. While the vaccine is generally well-tolerated, side effects can include pain, swelling and itching at the injection site, fever, and in very rare cases, difficulty in breathing.
The vaccine is available to girls and women between the ages of nine and 26. A version for men is currently being tested.
Since the vaccine is so new, it unfortunately remains quite expensive — the series of vaccinations costs around $400. As it becomes more widely available, though, the price should decrease. Women's and Men's Health at University Health Services should have the vaccine available in the near future. See your health care provider for more details.
Regardless of whether you choose to get the vaccine or not, the Sexpert does advise you to get tested for HPV if you are sexually active, as it is a very common STI. In fact, in 2005, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated the 20 million Americans had the virus, and that at least 50 percent of sexually active people contract HPV during their lifetime. Yikes! — The Sexpert
Dear Sexpert,
I've been with some men who really enjoyed being anally excited and in fact even requested me to do so. On the other hand I find that most straight men are freaked out by the idea. How can I introduce my lover to new kinds of pleasure, overcoming these cultural taboos against anal sexual excitation for straight men? — Sharing the Fun
Dear Sharing the Fun,
Start by having an honest, open discussion about your desire to engage in anal play. Though societal taboos may be difficult to overcome, it might be helpful to explain to your lover that many straight men do enjoy anal play. You may also want to tell him that when done properly anal stimulation can be very ... well ... stimulating, since the prostate gland, which is found inside the anal canal, is a major pleasure point for men — sort of like the male "G-spot."
If, after your discussion, he decides that he is willing to give it a shot, then by all means, let the fun begin! Keep in mind that if he is at all uncomfortable with any sexual activity, you should respect his wishes. Otherwise, start by getting your lover to relax. Remember that the key in any kind of anal interaction is lubrication — and not with honey, saliva or whatever random bottle of face cream that happens to be lying next to your bed at the time. Instead, use water-based lubrication to minimize the risk of infections or injury. If you are planning to use your fingers, file your fingernails beforehand — otherwise, major ouch! Also, wear a latex glove or finger cot (like latex gloves, but just for fingers) to prevent the potential spread of infection.
If at any point your partner feels uncomfortable with something that you're doing, stop immediately. Then make sure to discuss what is was that made him uncomfortable, and come up with a plan to remedy his distress. Discussing sexual fantasies, positions or acts can only make your relationship stronger, both inside the bedroom and out! — The Sexpert
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