Below are some common beliefs concerning partner-transmitted infections, followed by a discussion about whether each is true or false. Men can take the following like a quiz if they desire.

Beliefs

1. One can’t catch an infection from a virgin.
2. Infections can be spread by a toilet seat.
3. Not all barrier protectors prevent social diseases.
4. Social diseases are only spread by penetrative coupling.
5. Not all lubricants are safe to use with barrier protection.
6. If a partner has a social disease, one can tell.

Answers

1. False! It may seem like a no-brainer – if a partner hasn’t had sensual activity, how can he or she have a partner-transmitted infection? The key here, though, is to keep in mind that people define virginity differently. A partner may consider him/herself a virgin if he or she has had non-penetrative sensual activity, but what about oral? And has there been any skin-to-skin contact in the groin region? Infections can be transmitted these ways.

2. False! At least, it’s extremely unlikely. Skin-to-skin contact and the exchange of fluids facilitate the spread of infections, generally not a surface like a toilet seat. Unless there’s blood on the seat and/or one has an open cut on part of the body that touches the toilet seat, there’s usually nothing to worry about.

3. True! Lambskin barriers do NOT prevent the transmission of social diseases. That’s because the material is porous enough to allow them through, although the barriers are effective at preventing pregnancy.

4. False! This was already partly covered in #1 above. Several social diseases can be transmitted through oral sensual activity or skin-to-skin contact, and don’t require penetration.

5. True! Oil-based lubes, such as Vaseline or baby oil, can erode latex, so they should never be used in conjunction with latex barriers. Always read lubricant instructions and barrier packages to be sure that one is not mixing things that shouldn’t go together.

6. False! Yes, sometimes infections have clear and visible symptoms – bumps or lesions, for example. But often, they don’t. A person can have an infection and be asymptomatic, or may have symptoms that are not visible.

It’s a good idea for partners to talk openly and honestly about their sensual histories so they have a good idea of their risk of infection. Sensually active individuals should also be tested regularly – once a year, at least, and more frequently if an exposure took place, if one has multiple partners and/or if one presents with unusual symptoms such as burning with urination, unusual discharge or visible bumps or lesions.

Along with using protection and receiving regular testing, men should take care of their male organs with a comprehensive hygiene routine. Washing after sensual activity or self-pleasuring is always a good idea. Avoiding harsh or strongly-scented soaps is important for preventing irritation of the delicate skin.

Another step men can take to keep their manhood in peak shape is to use a male organ health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). Skin care is important for men, too, and the male organ may need some special attention due to the frictions it is subjected to, from a man’s hand to partners’ bodies. With Shea butter and vitamin E, Man1 Man Oil is a powerful moisturizer that will heal sore, chafed skin and keep the skin more resilient to friction in the future. Along with protection and proper hygiene, using a quality skin care product like this on the manhood daily will give men a leg up in the look and feel departments.

Visit http://www.menshealthfirst.com for additional information on most common male organ health issues, tips on improving organ sensitivity and what to do to maintain a healthy member. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men’s health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous websites.

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