Latexology stresses steps of protection
By Jennifer Scott, Staff Writer
April 30, 2008 | 3 p.m.
Most people believe that they know the correct way to put on and remove a condom. However, on Tuesday, April 22 a Latexology class presented by Promoting Ohio University Wellness, Education and Responsibility (POWER) showed its audience otherwise.
Senior Kristen Eli and sophomore Lauren Swick, two members of POWER, showed the audience that there are actually 13 steps in the condom application process:
1. Get consent.
2. Check expiration date.
3. Check for spermicidal lubricant.
4. Check to make sure there is air in the package.
5. Slide condom to side and open.
6. Look for correct direction to roll down.
7. Check for the reservoir tip. If it does not have one, leave an inch.
8. Squeeze air out of tip.
9. Place additional spermicide into condom and vaginal tract.
10. Roll condom down to base of penis.
11. Hold condom at base of penis and withdraw.
12. Knot condom and throw away (do not flush it down the toilet).
13. Cleanse genitals and hands.
Along with teaching the correct way to use a condom, POWER went the extra mile and welcomed audience participation. They split the audience into teams and held a condom race with the rules stating that the audience must put the condom on using the 13 steps correctly. The first ones finished received a free "safe sex pack."
POWER also did a presentation on sexually transmitted infections and how to prevent college students from contracting one.
Latexology included interesting facts about the history of condoms, including "condoms were invented because of syphilis." One anonymous audience member at the event said, "I didn't realize you weren't supposed to brush your teeth at least two hours after giving oral sex." Such practices are necessary because mini abrasions can be created in the mouth, causing easier transmission of STIs.
POWER presents many classes similar to the recent Latexology class. These classes are called POWER Hours, and they teach different subjects at 7 p.m. each Tuesday in Baker 219. POWER is hosting "Party on the Patio" outside of the Baker food court from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. on May 9.
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To become a member of POWER, take a look at the applications at www.ohio.edu/healthwell or stop at the POWER office in room 339 in Baker.