Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) or Diseases
STIs are sexually transmitted infections that are caused by different types of microorganisms. (Bacteria, Viruses & Parasites)
Types of Sexually transmitted Inspection
STIs caused by bacteria such as Gonorrhea, Syphilis and Chlamydia, which are passed through unprotected sex and infected fluids.
STIs caused by Viruses , such as HPV, HIV and Genital Herpes , which are passed through sexual contact and bodily fluids.
STIs caused by parasites , such as Trichomoniasis , which are passed through sexual contact and infected fluids.
STIs caused by fungi, such as Candidiasis , which are passed through sexual contact and humid and moist environments.
Symptoms & Prevention of STIs
Most of the STIs are asymptotic. When symptoms occur , they can be non specific.
Gonorrhea : Often asymptotic , but symptoms like penile discharge, pain during urination, and abdominal pain. It can also cause throat or rectal infections.
Chlamydia : Often asymptotic , but symptoms like abnormal vaginal and penile discharge, pain or discomfort during urination , and abdominal pain.
Syphilis: It has several stages, and symptoms vary. Primary syphilis may present as a painless sore (chancre) on the genitals or mouth.
Secondary syphilis can cause rash, fever, and other flu-like symptoms.
If left untreated, it can progress to more deadly tertiary syphilis, which affects other body organs like the heart, brain etc. other than Genitals.
4.HIV : It can be asymptotic for long period and in early stages may persist Flu like symptoms.
5.Herpes: Its symptoms are painful sores and blisters on genitals and mouth. In early stages virus can also causes flu like symptoms.
6.HPV: Many strains of HPV are asymptomatic, but some can cause genital warts or lead to various cancers.
7.Trichomoniasis: Its symptoms are Itching, burning, and discomfort in the genital area, along with abnormal discharge.
Prevention & Treatment of STIs
In case of STIs prevention is better than cure. Prevention methods are –
Use of condoms: Use of Condoms in all vaginal & anal sex offer most effective way of protection against STIs, including HIV.
Vaccination: There are vaccines available for certain STIs Specifically HPV and Hepatitis B virus. The HPV vaccine, Gardasil 9, is recommended for everyone ages 9 to 26 years, and some people up to age 45 to help prevent cancer-causing infections and precancers.
The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all infants, children, and adults.
Antibiotics Medicines can treat and cure STIs caused by Bacteria and parasites, but they cannot cure viral infections, so
unless proper diagnosis do not take medicines unnecessarily.
3.Loyal to Life Partner: Having multiple sex partner increases the risk of STIs, so be loyal to your life partner.
4.Awareness about STIs: Keep informed about the various sexually transmitted diseases, so that diagnosis and treatment
can be done in early stages of infection.
5.Regular Testing: If someone have multiple sex partners then, he/she should be get tested for STIs regularly. It is very
helpful to follow a healthcare provider’s advice for proper treatment and management.
Some Key Facts as per WHO:
More than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic.
Each year there are an estimated 374 million new infections with 1 of 4 curable STIs: chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomoniasis.
More than 500 million people 15–49 years are estimated to have a genital infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV or herpes).
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is associated with over 311000 cervical cancer deaths each year.
Almost 1 million pregnant women were estimated to be infected with syphilis in 2016, resulting in over 350000 adverse birth outcomes.
STIs have a direct impact on sexual and reproductive health through stigmatization, infertility, cancers, and pregnancy complications and can increase the risk of HIV.
Drug resistance is a major threat to reducing the burden of STIs worldwide.
# Me Too is a social movement and awareness campaign against sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and rape culture at work place and in the society.
The people publicize at social media and other platform about their experiences of sexual abuse and sexual harassment.
Tarana Burke, a sexual assault survivor, later become a social activist and community organizer used the phrase “Me Too” first time in 2006 on the Myspace social network to promote “empowerment through empathy” among women who have sexually harassed and abused.
Burke made a documentary titled Me Too which depicted about the
Burke was born in Bronx, New York on September, 1973.
Tarana Burke earned several distinctions. She was named a 2017 “TIME Person of the Year” and received the 2019 “Sydney Peace Prize”. In 2021 she published her memoir, Unbound: My Story of Liberation and the Birth of the Me-Too Movement.
In the late 1980s she joined the 21st Century Youth Leadership Movement, an organization dedicated to youth development.
After graduating from Alabama State University, Burke moved to Selma, Alabama, where she continued to work for 21st Century. While with that organization, she came into contact with African American female survivors of sexual abuse.
Burke, also a survivor of sexual violence, began to provide information and counselling for these young women.
In 2003 Burke cofounded “Jendayi Aza”, an African-centred program to assist African American girls in their journey to adulthood. By 2006 that program grew into the nonprofit organization “Just Be, Inc”.
It provides workshops and training dedicated to the health and well-being of young women of colour. During this time Burke first used the phrase “me too” while talking with a survivor of sexual assault. To further the Me-Too movement, she created a safe place for survivors to gather and share their stories while promoting “empowerment through empathy.” The movement expanded to include leadership training for survivors to bring programs and healing to their communities.
The Me Too campaign gained widespread attention beginning in 2017.
At that time, it was revealed that film mogul Harvey Weinstein had for years sexually harassed and assaulted women in the industry.
Victims of sexual harassment or assault around the world—and of all races and ethnicities—began sharing their experiences on social media, using the hashtag #MeToo. The movement grew over the following months to bring condemnation to dozens of powerful men in politics, business, entertainment, and the news media. Although Burke was encouraged that the topic of sexual abuse was receiving widespread attention, she felt that the emphasis of the Me-Too movement should be on the survivors and their path to healing.
As per Burke this Movement is not about retribution or revenge and it is certainly not about violence. It is about HEALING and ACTION.
She became the managing director of Art Sanctuary, an arts organization in Philadelphia.
She also served as an executive director of the Black Belt Arts and Cultural Center. There she oversaw programs for underserved youth.
In addition, Burke served as special projects director at the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute in Selma. She helped organize the Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee celebrating the 1965 Selma March for voting rights, and she later was a consultant on Ava DuVernay’s film Selma (2014).
Later Burke served as director of the Brooklyn, New York, organization Girls for Gender Equality. The organization assists African American girls in building personal development skills.
Burke also taught empowerment workshops, and she edited (with Brené Brown) the essay collection You Are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame Resilience, and the Black Experience (2021). Her memoir, unbound: My Story of Liberation and the Birth of the Me-Too Movement, was published in 2021.
A website https://metoomvmt.org/ developed to help and guide the harassed and deceased one, also anyone who can join the Me-Too movement can register for getting updates about how to stay involved in support of survivors of sexual violence, with upcoming events and actions.
#Me-Too movement spread all over the world and many hidden stories unearthed by the harassed and sexually abused women through various platforms after kept mum for a long time and exposed the high-profile people.
In India it started in year 2017 when a law student Raya Sarkar released a list the contained more than 70 cases of harassment and sexual abuse. The list he circulated on the social media which generated a lot of controversy and debate.
The list contained the names of several renowned academics across reputed institutions who were accused of sexual harassment of multiple women.
In year 2018, renowned actress Tanushree Dutta accuses actor Nana patekar of sexual harassment on the set of a film in 2008, after a decade. This incident sparked a wave of accusations against prominent figures in the Indian entertainment industry on social media.
In the same year, journalist Priya Ramani accused former Union minister MJ Akbar of sexual harassment while she was working under him at an Asian Age newspaper in the late 1990s. Akbar denied the allegations and sued Ramani for defamation.
Following the #MeToo movement backlash, the Indian government introduced several amendments to the POSH Act in 2018 including expanding the definition of sexual harassment to include incidents outside of the workplace.
It also allowed for extending the time limit for filing complaints from three to six months and allowing complainants to file complaints electronically.
The POSH Act is further amended to include provisions for the protection of complainants and witnesses, including providing anonymity and protection against victimization.
Masturbation is the act of sexually stimulating oneself by touching, rubbing, or massaging one’s own genitals, typically to achieve sexual pleasure or orgasm. It is a natural and common human sexual behaviour that can be performed alone or with a partner. It is considered a healthy and safe way to explore one’s own sexuality and to release sexual tension. It is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality and is not harmful in any way.
Masturbation Genderwise:
Masturbation can be different for males and females due to the differences in their anatomy and physiology.
For males, masturbation typically involves the manual stimulation of the penis, which can be done by hand or with the aid of sex toys. This can involve stroking or rubbing the penis to achieve sexual arousal and ultimately orgasm, which involves the release of semen through the urethra.
For females, masturbation typically involves the stimulation of the clitoris, which is located at the front of the vulva. This can be done by hand or with the aid of sex toys. The clitoris has thousands of nerve endings and can be stimulated through rubbing, touching, or applying pressure, which can lead to sexual arousal and ultimately orgasm. Some women may also stimulate their vagina or G-spot, which is a sensitive area located inside the vagina. Overall, the techniques used for masturbation can vary widely among individuals and are often based on personal preference and what feels pleasurable.
Masturbation is a form of self-stimulation that is commonly practiced by both males and females. It is a natural and normal aspect of human sexuality and can be a healthy way to explore one’s own body, relieve sexual tension, and experience sexual pleasure. In males, masturbation typically involves the manual stimulation of the penis, which can be done with the hand or with the aid of sex toys such as vibrators, flesh lights, or cock rings. The penis has numerous nerve endings that can be stimulated through touching, stroking, or rubbing, which can lead to sexual arousal and ultimately orgasm. Some men may also incorporate other parts of their body into their masturbation, such as their testicles or anus.
In females, masturbation typically involves the stimulation of the clitoris, which is a highly sensitive and erogenous zone located at the front of the vulva. The clitoris has thousands of nerve endings and can be stimulated through rubbing, touching, or applying pressure. Masturbation can also involve the stimulation of the vagina, either through penetration with fingers, sex toys, or other objects, or by rubbing or massaging the external genitalia. Some women may also stimulate their G-spot, which is a sensitive area located inside the vagina that can lead to intense sexual pleasure and orgasm. Masturbation can be a safe and healthy way to explore one’s own sexuality and to learn about what feels pleasurable and what does not. It can also be a way to relieve stress and tension, especially for those who are not in sexual relationships or who are experiencing sexual difficulties.
Masturbation Health Effects:
Masturbation is not harmful and does not have any negative health effects, although it is important to use clean hands or sex toys to avoid introducing bacteria or infections into the body. It is important to note that masturbation is a personal choice and may not be appropriate for everyone. Some individuals may have religious or cultural beliefs that discourage or prohibit masturbation, while others may have personal or psychological issues that make it difficult or uncomfortable to engage in. It is important to respect individuals’ choices and to not shame or judge them for their sexual practices or preferences.
Facts & Myths:
There is a common belief in some cultures that masturbation can have negative effects on physical and mental health, and that it can cause weakness of the body. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these beliefs.
In fact, masturbation is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality, and has been shown to have several health benefits. Masturbation can help relieve stress and tension, improve sexual function, and enhance mood and self-esteem. It can also help individuals learn about their own bodies and what feels pleasurable to them.
There is no evidence that masturbation can cause weakness of the body or have any negative effects on physical health. Masturbation does not cause any physical harm or damage to the body, and is not associated with any medical conditions or diseases.
It is important to remember that cultural and social beliefs about sexuality can be influenced by a variety of factors, including religious or moral beliefs, societal norms, and personal experiences. While it is important to respect individuals’ beliefs and choices, it is also important to base our understanding of sexual health and behavior on scientific evidence and facts.
What Researches Says about Masturbation:
•Debby Herbenick: An American sex researcher who has conducted several studies on masturbation, including research on the prevalence of different masturbation techniques and the relationship between masturbation and sexual function.
•Erick Janssen: A Dutch sex researcher who has conducted research on a wide range of sexual health topics, including masturbation and its effects on sexual function, desire, and satisfaction.
•Michael Metz: An American sex therapist and researcher who has published several studies on sexual health and behaviour, including research on the psychological and social factors that influence attitudes towards masturbation.
•Lisa Diamond: An American psychologist and researcher who has conducted research on sexual identity and behaviour. Diamond has written about the importance of recognizing masturbation as a natural and healthy aspect of human sexuality, and has argued that negative attitudes towards masturbation can be harmful.
•Julia Heiman: An American sex researcher who has conducted research on a variety of sexual health topics, including masturbation and sexual function. Heiman has argued that masturbation can be an important tool for individuals to learn about their own bodies and sexual preferences, and can lead to improved sexual function and satisfaction.
Books on Masturbation:
•“Love, Sex and Everything in Between” by Dr. Tarun Jain: This book provides comprehensive information about sexual health and pleasure, including a chapter on masturbation. Dr. Jain discusses the benefits of masturbation and provides practical advice on how to explore and enjoy one’s own sexuality.
•”Masturbation: A Guide to Self-Loving” by Dr. Mahinder Watsa: Written by one of India’s leading sexologists, this book is a practical guide to masturbation and self-exploration. Dr. Watsa provides information on anatomy, techniques, and the benefits of masturbation, as well as addressing common concerns and misconceptions.
•”Sexual Behaviour: Normal and Abnormal” by Dr. Prakash Kothari: This book is a comprehensive guide to sexual health and behaviour, including a chapter on masturbation. Dr. Kothari discusses the physical and psychological benefits of masturbation and provides advice on how to explore one’s own sexuality in a safe and healthy way.
•”Sexual Health in Men: The Complete Guide” by Dr. Rajan Bhonsle: This book provides information on a wide range of sexual health topics, including a chapter on masturbation.
Dr. Bhonsle discusses the benefits of masturbation and provides practical advice on how to explore one’s own sexuality and improve sexual function.
The word flirting originates from the French word ‘Fleurette’.
It means to seduce someone by dropping flower petals. It was first used in 16th-century poems. Flirting celebrates the notion of love as it lets us open our hearts and minds to new experiences.
In their young age everyone wants attention from someone who is attractive and looking good.
So “flirting” is an art to attract someone and it need some skills & tricks which should be follows.
But the most important thing is to be genuine, confident and respectful to others while flirting.
Tips & Tricks: Following are the some tips and tricks for men for flirting women
Approach with Confidence :
Approach to a pretty women with confidence, maintain good posture, and make eye contact with a warm smile.
2. Start with small talk :
First judge that she is interested in you or not, once you get some positive response then approach to her and start with some light and casual conversation.
3. Light moment :
Use your sense of humor to create light moments. Make her laugh by telling jokes & funny stories.
4. Be respectful :
Always respect her and pay attention to her comfort level and respect her boundaries.
If in any matter she shows her disinterest or uncomfortable, gracefully back off and give her space to express herself.
5.Compliment her :
Compliments genuinely to her positive qualities. Focus on her personality, intelligence, style and other aspects, genuinely appreciate all.
Do not loose talk or any sexual favor and objectifying compliments.
6. Find common Interests :
Discover common interests and hobbies that both enjoy. This will create a bond between both and provide opportunities for future interactions or dates centered on those common interests like travel buff or outdoor activities.
7. Use Light touches :
After few days of togetherness, one can way forward to appropriately gentle touches can create a sense of intimacy and connection. Lightly touch her arm, fingers or shoulder during conversation, but be mindful of her comfort level and always respect personal boundaries.
8.Be Patient & slow :
Don’t rush the process. Building a connection takes time, so be patient and respect her boundaries. Slowly you realize the things are going in the positive direction.
9.Show Genuine Interest :
Ask open ended questions about her hobbies, passions and interests. Show curiosity and actively listen to her responses. This demonstrates that you value her thoughts and opinions.
10.Gift Flower & card :
On her birthday and other auspicious occasions gift bouquet and card to wish her.
Take her to lovely place which she love most and give a hug smooch if she allows.
Every year 6th February is celebrated all over the world as international day of zero tolerance for female Genital mutilation.
The female genital mutilation is a bad practice comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genital for non-medical reasons and is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.
Let Me Go
Types of FGM
The World Health Organization has classified FGM into four different types :
TYPE I – Clitoridectomy
Partial or total removal of the clitoris (a small, sensitive and erectile part of the female genitals) and /or the prepuce (the clitoral hood or fold of skin surrounding the clitoris)
TYPE II – Excision
Partial or total removal of the clitoris and the inner labia, with or without excision of the outer labia (the labia are the ‘lips’ that surround the vagina).
TYPE III – Infibulation
Narrowing of the vaginal opening by creating a covering seal. The seal formed by cutting and repositioning the inner or outer labia, with or without removal of the clitoris.
TYPE IV – Other
All other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes. E.g., pricking, piercing, incising, scrapping and cauterizing (burning) the genital area.
According to United Nations currently the data related to FGM are terrible and should be stopped.
Some key facts about FGM sourced from UN are below:
At least 200 million girls & women alive globally undergone some form of FGM.
If current trends continue, 15 million additional girls between ages 15 to 19 be subjected to it by 2030.
Highest percentage of FGM in girls of age 14 are in Gambia 56% , Mauritania 54%.
In Indonesia where half of girls aged 11 and younger have undergone the practice.
Countries with the highest rate of FGM among girls and women aged 15 to 49 are Somalia 98% , Guinea 97% and Djibouti 93%.
FGM is mostly carried out on young girls sometime between infancy and age 15.
This practice is very painful, cause severe bleeding and health issues including cysts, infections, infertility as well as complications in child birth increased risk of new born deaths.
In India, 75% of FGM cases in Bohra Muslim community as per some independent researchers but government denied it and claim that no evidence of FGM in India.
Eradication of female genital mutilation by 2030 is a United Nations sustainability target.
Give Justice
Movement against FGM
The WeSpeakOut campaign (Masooma Ranalvi started it) was established as a platform for survivors of FGM and gained momentum after the conviction of three Bohras accused of FGM in Australia, in 2015.
As a result, groups from countries which have anti-FGM laws, including the UK and US , issued notices instructing their followers not to perform “Khafd” – the Arabic term for female genital cutting .
A women named Insia Dariwala founded an organization called “Sahiyo” with four other women.
The women Insia’s older sister Fatema experienced this horrifying practice and this led to her to found this organization. She avoided FGM because her mother stood up against the cruel practice when she discovered what had happened to Fatema her oldest daughter.
The Quran, the holy book of Islam, does not mention it. However, the Daim al-Islam, a religious text that the Bohra community follows does endorse this practice.
Indian cinema also portrayed this cruel practice in one of the documentaries directed by Priya Goswami titled “A pinch of Skin”
Also, a short film name “CUT” shows about the “FGM” in African countries.
Terminology “Khafz” Vs “FGM”
In support of this cruel practice most of the religious priest differentiate Khafz from FGM . They believe that Khafz is a religious ceremony and it is practicing for the last 1400 years , and it is a harmless procedure involves a nick on the prepuce. During Khafz, the clitoris is not touched at all, and in fact, great care is taken by trained nurses, practitioners & doctors to ensure safety at all levels. But most testimonials state that the procedure is carried out by untrained peoples.
But WHO gives a unifying definition of FGM that covers slightest nick to the most severe form of mutilation of the female genital. So it is clear that in any of the form this practice of cutting female genital comes under the cruelty act against girl and women and violation of their Rights.
This year United Nations commemorate the 12th anniversary of the “International day of the zero tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation” and the theme of this year is “Partnership with Men and Boys to Transform Social and Gender Norms to End Female Genital Mutilation”.
UNICEF calls on the global community to partner with men and boys and foster their engagement to accelerate the elimination of this harmful practice and uplift the voices of women and girls.
Hope that with continuous effort of social service communities , Government and men and boys definitely will eradicate this cruel practice from the world.
