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Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Is the Safe Sex Card a pass to condomless sex?

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stfree.jpg

stfree.jpg

We're usually all for anything that encourages safer sex. And in theory, the STFree Safe Sex License (recently reported on by New York's Daily News) is a great idea: Test people--especially those in high risk communities--for STDs (mainly HIV), give them a card with their picture and an ID number. They can then give that card to potential sex partners, who can call to confirm the results. The idea is to encourage honest discussion about sexual history with partners, as well as regular testing.

But here's why we're not 100 percent gung-ho:

  • They test mainly for HIV (which admittedly is the mutha of all STDs), though the card's name would suggest that all STDs are covered. Regarding testing for other STDs, the website says, "Those Safe Sex Licenses require an extremely frequent amount of testing. It is mostly used in the adult entertainment industry, but can be provided to any user who requests one." Which kinda sounds to us like they don't do them that much. On top of that, there really isn't a viable men's test for HPV, one of the most common STDs out there.
  • HIV doesn't show up for three months (in most cases) to six months (in rare cases) on tests, so you could get negative test results but still be infected. Plus, if you get tested and then have sex the next day, you could contract anything that person had and it won't show up on the card, of course.
  • It's the better-than-nothing approach: Planned Parenthood does the testing, so we're sure they use it as an opportunity for community education on safer sex. And the website says, "STFree encourages its members to always use condoms in conjunction with our service. We also inform our members that individuals can contract the virus after being tested."
But the site also says, "Studies have proven that most people who get tested don't return for a follow-up test." We worry a card like this can give people a false sense of security. The company name itself is a bit of a misnomer, automatically suggesting that card-holders are STD-free; besides, what does "sexually transmitted free" mean exactly anyway? And what's to prevent the more unscrupulous from using it as merely a free-pass on condoms: "Call this number, you'll see I'm negative, that means we don't need to use a condom." HIV prevention is a noble and important crusade--this just seems like it might be at the expense of other, more common STDs, and perhaps even unplanned pregnancy.

Check out Glamour's article on everything you ever wanted to know about down there!

MORE FROM DAILY BEDPOST AND GLAMOUR:

Related: stfree safe sex license, stds, sex, planned parenthood, hiv, condoms

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From the Community…

Comments 1-10 of 20
  • Fifi's Avatar
    Posted by Fifi Wed Aug 6, 2008 11:47am PDT

    I see this leading to more unplanned pregnancies. People will think "Oh, they're clean. I don't need a condom", not even thinking about the OTHER reason people use condoms!

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  • LucyS's Avatar
    Posted by LucyS Wed Aug 6, 2008 5:08pm PDT

    WOW..... unbelievable what if people make fake passes just to sleep with someone. What should be done prior to starting a new realationship is getting themselves both tested.

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  • KimberlyJ's Avatar
    Posted by KimberlyJ Wed Aug 6, 2008 10:42pm PDT

    i think its a great idea. people are gonna have sex reguardless of this card but if there is one more way to protect yourself thats grand. as far as them being careless of pregnancy if youre gonna choose to have sex and you never thought bout pregnancy before you still wont think about it. if youre a strong girl you make that man wrap his stuff or say no. teenage pregnancies will happen reguardless.

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  • springtime's Avatar
    Posted by springtime Thu Aug 7, 2008 8:51am PDT

    This is the heighth of stupidity. Does anyone actually believe that when two hot and lusting bodies are getting ready to go at it, that one will say, " Hold up there, Muffy. I have to see your card first."

    Sheesh.

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  • 's Avatar
    Posted by Thu Aug 7, 2008 8:59am PDT

    I agree kim, I like sex without a condom. plus, new technology is anyways working on a way for the males to take more responsiblity concerning pregnancy and unwanted pregnancies. With all the STD's I have to think that in the long run this will prove healthier.

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  • 's Avatar
    Posted by Thu Aug 7, 2008 9:03am PDT

    springtime, I have done this myself. You can be tested and the health center will give you a slip. I have used it and requested it. It can happen and maybe now it will happen more often. Making us come clean, as STD's shouldn't be a concern....truth is THEY ARE!

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  • 's Avatar
    Posted by Thu Aug 7, 2008 9:03am PDT

    springtime, I have done this myself. You can be tested and the health center will give you a slip. I have used it and requested it. It can happen and maybe now it will happen more often. Making us come clean, as STD's shouldn't be a concern....truth is THEY ARE!

    Report Abuse
  • U'ilani's Avatar
    Posted by U'ilani Thu Aug 7, 2008 9:03am PDT

    You know, it's sad that people are so casual about sex. That's why we have all the health issues regarding sex today. People need to respect their bodies more......

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  • Racquel's Avatar
    Posted by Racquel Thu Aug 7, 2008 9:17am PDT

    Haha I agree with springtime. I've seen adults make some stupid things but this takes the cake. God, and the adults say its us teen who are sex crazy!

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  • Armenta's Avatar
    Posted by Armenta Thu Aug 7, 2008 11:39am PDT

    I think this is a good idea - BUT - there will always be some scam artist out there who will figure out how to create fake cards and sell them. The safest thing is just to practice abstinence or use condoms.

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Comments 1-10 of 20

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