Latex Condom Allergy Solution

A question from a commenter on my previous post about positive attitudes:

"My partner is allergic to latex. is there anything that I can do with my new partner to prevent transmission or atleast reduce it as much as possible."

Condoms reduce transmission of HSV by about half (as does the taking of daily antiviral therapy). These two methods, combined, can provide a lot of protection from infection, and make susceptible partners feel quite reassured about the low risk of transmission.

However, every now and then I hear from patients whose partners are allergic to latex. Latex allergies can be life threatening, so nothing to fool around with. Fortunately, there are condoms now made out of polypropylene. These are good choices for those with latex allergies, and are better for reducing the risk of viral STIs than natural animal skin condoms.

I've tried them with my partner, and they feel fine - they do make a bit of noise and generate a fair amount of heat (which might be a good thing!). Other than that, they are the same as latex condoms. Give 'em a try and let us know what you think!

Related Links: Are You at Risk for Genital Herpes?, Coping With Your Partner's Diagnosis

Technorati Tags: HSV, Herpes, antiviral therapy, condoms

South Dakota Abortion Ban

I have grave concerns about the decision made by the South Dakota governor and legislature to effectively ban abortion in that state. There were no provisions left for abortion in the case of rape or incest, which is in itself, reason to be livid about this decision.

But to take away the choice to carry or terminate a pregnancy from a woman and her clinician and hand it over to the government is fundamentally frightening. As a nurse practitioner, I want the right to offer my patients options that fit with their choices.

This is not an area for governmental interference, and this decision does not fit with the wishes of the majority of Americans! Are we not a country of democracy, where the citizens make choices anymore?

I hope the citizens of South Dakota get an opportunity to vote on this issue, and let their legislators know how they really feel. Then we will see if democracy reigns - or not.

Related Topics: Reasons Women Choose Abortion, Unwanted Pregnancy

Technorati Tags: Abortion, Unwanted Pregnancy, South Dakota, Women's Rights, Rape, Incest