Trojan Brand Condoms is holding a contest to find college journalists who have sex covered.  This is a great opportunity for students across the country.  From Trojan:

“The makers of Trojan® brand condoms and the National Sexuality Resource Center (NSRC) are now accepting entries for the second annual Trojan Evolve Student Journalism Award. The award recognizes college journalists who demonstrate outstanding sexual health reporting in their college print, radio, television or online media outlet, including journalistic blogs, and will be judged by a prestigious panel of experts, including former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Joycelyn Elders and GOOD Magazine Editor-in-Chief Zach Frechette.

Trojan Supra

A part of the ongoing national Trojan Evolve campaign, the Trojan Evolve Student Journalism Award is founded in the belief that an open and honest dialogue about sexual health, especially among young people, is essential to improving the poor state of sexual health in America. With one in four young women contracting an STI by age 19[1] and nearly 34 percent of teen girls pregnant at least once before age 20[2], it is clear that a deeper discussion on sexual health is urgently needed. The makers of Trojan brand condoms believe student journalists are uniquely positioned to play a vital role in advancing a sexual health dialogue essential to improving sexual health in this country. “We must evolve the poor sexual health of our nation,” said James Daniels, Vice President of Marketing, Trojan brand condoms. “With this award we hope to empower student journalists to use their influence as a way to raise awareness, and inspire change.”

College students across the U.S. can submit articles relating to sexual health issues, statistics, products, policy, or opinions by emailing them to trojanjournalismaward@edelman.com. The winner will be determined by a panel of judges consisting of sexual health experts and journalism professionals. One grand prize recipient will be awarded with a $2,000 cash prize and trip for two to San Francisco, where they will be honored at the 2009 NSRC Champions of Sexual Literacy annual event. The winning entry will also be published on the trojancondoms.com web site.

The NSRC believes supporting college journalists strengthens ‘sexual literacy’ as an expanded view of sexual health and invites positive conversations based on facts instead of hype. “At a time when sexual health misinformation and polarization are all too common, it is essential to shepherd in an honest, two-way dialogue,” said NSRC’s Executive Director Gil Herdt. “By recognizing outstanding pieces of journalism, this award encourages college journalists to start talking openly about sexual health from their own perspective, and gets students involved with improving the state of sexual health in this country.”

For a complete list of rules and regulations, students can log onto www.trojancondoms.com.”

Of course, we’re big proponents of safe sex.  And condoms are a way to enjoy safe, healthy sex with your partner.

Wrapping a special package

Remember to check out tomorrow’s Sunday Sex Toy Review, which includes our interview with Shaye Saldana from Lelo.  Shaye’s a knowledgeable professional who will bring you the insider’s view of how research and quality blend to create a great luxury toy.  Plus Sarah will give you the scoop on Lily.  And did we mention that Ginger’s pining for Buck?  What do you suppose she’ll be wanting to do with the swing this week?

Pjur’s in the mix, and, just for a little extra fun, you’ll never believe what we’ve found to help you wrap that special “package.”  And just when you thought you’d found that perfect toy, we’ll give you five questions to ask yourself to see if that toy is, in fact, the perfect toy for you.  Find it all in the Sunday Sex Toy Review, all day tomorrow!

The One Shot

It’s the weekend and you probably should have opportunities for several “shots.”  But if you’re like us and always on the go with business, the One Shot Wireless Silicone Vibro Ring will make that “one shot a memorable one!  From California Exotic:

“No muss, no fuss! Discreet, silicone, one touch activation wireless micro enhancer that’s disposable after 15 minutes. Micro batteries included.”

You know how we like silicone and its hygienic, hypoallergenic quality.  This little vibrating cock ring can make the difference between a good time and a great time!  And the beauty is when you’re done, there’s no clean up!  Have a look and we think you’ll agree that this little wonder can make a difference for you.

For a lot of women, the clit is where it’s at, and the folks over at Cal Exotic must have been well aware of that when they created the Scoop Lover!  This  ergonomically designed vibe is designed to buzz your magic button with minimal effort.

This multi-speed plastic vibe is controlled by a the dial knob that is located on it’s base and runs on 2 AAA batteries.   Plastic is a phthalate material and is easy to care for and clean.  Unfortunately, it can’t be sterilized, but you can wipe it down with soap and water and keep it in good shape.

This clitoral massager is a great for solo play and an easy way to add some extra excitement to partnered play.  The scoop on the end (hence the name) is designed to cradle your clitoris for maximum stimulation!  For those of you who love long lingering showers, the Scoop Lover is waterproof.

While it’s not as discreet as a pocket rocket, this toy is small enough to stick in an overnight bag at just 7.5 inches long.

Whether you’re looking for a new clit vibe to add to your extensive toy collection or a newbie looking to experiment in the wonderful world of sex toys, the Scoop Lover is one to look at.

Check out the rest of this month’s Feature Products!

Doc Holliday was one of the most famous dentists of all time.  It wasn’t his dentistry that made him famous, though.  Travelling west with his, sweet, soft Hungarian devil, “big nosed” Kate, he made his name with lightning fast six shooters and a trail of dead cowboys behind him.  Move over Doc Holliday, Doc Joe is about to be famous for a different kind of “blowing away.”

Say hello to the BlowGuard invented by Doc Joe:

Remember the lingerie too

“A 47 year old female patient came to see me a few years back. I made her a beautiful set of upper and lower dentures (she had no teeth). They looked and fit great!! She left the office satisfied. The very next day she returned to the office unhappy. I asked her what was wrong and she told me that her teeth moved when she gave her boyfriend a blow-job the night before. I joked with her and told her to take out her teeth – that he would love that. She said that he didn’t know that she didn’t have teeth. So I took the dentures from her and made a soft custom night guard to cover the teeth. The next day she called me and was very happy.

It worked. Blowguard™ novelty toys for couples was born!”

Sweet, soft Hungarian devils aren’t the only ones who can capture a heart, it seems.  Just remember to pick up some new lingerie too.  Everyone will want to be dressed properly for the occasion!

This Sunday, we feature an interview with Shaye Saldana of Lelo.  It’s an in depth look at how Lelo makes sex toys with some of the best reputations in the industry:

“LELO uses the quality of the design and a fashionable aesthetic to appeal those customers naturally used to shopping in the luxury end of the market. In fact we have created a limited edition of medical grade stainless steel and gold vibrators that sell for over $1,950. The reality is, that for various reasons the sex toys market still creates many products which are at the low price, low quality end of the spectrum. From that perspective we may be perceived as luxury, however as customers get used to certain standards then we believe that we will be seen as much value for the money as a luxury brand.” – Shaye Saldana

Also, we’ll have Ginger Leigh’s Sunday Wishes and other educational and informative posts that we hope you can use to find the perfect toy for you.  Check in on Sunday for the second edition of the Sunday Sex Toy Review.

Nobody wants to head into the weekend on a really bad note, but the reality of erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a tune that ruins a sex life – if you try to ignore it.  Worse yet, trying to cover up ED can ruin a great sexual relationship.  And men everywhere are unaware that ED is one of the most common problems reported among men aged 40 -70.  52% of men in that age group will experience ED and report it. 

There are no reliable numbers for how many men don’t report it, and that group is suffering needlessly.

WebMD has a great quiz to test your knowledge of ED.  If you have difficulty with erection, you’ll want the information on that quiz.  Medical professionals have a variety of treatment options to deal with the problem, so your sex life isn’t over just because you’re having issues with getting erect.

It is vital for a man’s sexual health to get treatment for ED.

Hollow Vibrating Extension by Doc Johnson

However, the man with ED isn’t the only one who suffers.  Our sexual partners need release, and if we’re unable to perform, the relationship suffers.  On the bright side, there are many options other than intercourse to enjoy sexual fulfillment.  But let’s assume that intercourse is something important to you and your partner.  There is a solution for that as well. 

For instance, Doc Johnson produces the Hollow Vibrating Extension that can be used as a strap on.  This can be an excellent tool to tide a relationship over until other treatment options begin to work.  And there are a variety of other sex toys that can make a difference between frustration and happy sexual fulfillment. 

You don’t have to let ED ruin your weekend.  Get medical help to treat it, and use your imagination.  You’ll be happier and we’re almost certain your partner will too.

Sarah Wagner, MD, presents a stark warning in News-Medical:

“”Genital piercings can be particularly problematic, if the piercing is not done or cared for properly,” said Wagner. “The most common issues associated with genital piercings are infections, which can be life-threatening, if left untreated.”

Other problems that can arise from genital piercings include the transmission of viruses, such as hepatitis B or C. Additional complications include bleeding, redness, swelling, pain, scarring, disfigurement and tissue trauma. This type of piercing also can pose a problem during childbirth due to its proximity to the birth canal.”

Nipple and Clitoral Non Piercing Jewelry

We’re fans of safety here at Sextoys, so the article made us take a second look.  The same issues can occur in other forms of body modification if a person chooses the service of an unsanitary facility.  The difference here is that, unlike an earlobe, genital piercing can lead to the worst kinds of damage in areas that should be providing the most kinds of pleasure.  An infection or tissue damage on the clitoris is a horrible thought.

As you know, we’re not doctors and we don’t give medical advice.  But Dr. Wagner is, and we’ll pass hers along:

“Women who choose to pierce their genitals despite the risks should practice good hygiene and be up front with their health care providers about their hidden piercings.

‘Patients should alert their health care providers about genital piercings in the event that they have to undergo an emergency surgery or magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) procedure where the piercing would have to be removed for the safety of the patient,’ said Wagner. ‘Physicians also should familiarize themselves with genital piercings and the issues that can arise from this growing trend.’”

We’d also add that there are ways to create the appearance of body modification without invasive methods like piercing.  Non-piercing jewelry is readily available in our jewelry section.  Check it out and you may find a way around the threat of infection.  And please take note of Dr. Wagner’s advice. 

Remember what we often say: The most fun play is always the safest too.

The Times of London has a guide to new luxury sex toys, and we aren’t surprised to see that Lelo made the cut – again.  The LIV was listed among the best.  For those of you who aren’t familiar with LIV, here’s the information.

“Versatile, smooth and sleek, the high-tech LIV vibrator is designed to enhance your play time visually as well as with your sense of touch. The Liv has a rounded head that narrows on a slight curve to a narrow neck and widening toward the base.

LIV by Lelo

This blue vibrator has a velvet touch. It comes with a 5 mode variable control, a black case and a 1 year warranty.

The LED lit control panel allows for fingertip control. It also has a locking function to prevent your vibrator from activating while travelling or at any other inopportune moment.

This toy is an elegant, powerful addition to any collection.”

At this point, we’re only surprised when we don’t find a Lelo vibrator on the luxury list.  Their quality has developed a reputation world-wide.  Make sure to catch the interview with Lelo’s Shaye Saldana in this week’s Sunday Sex Toy Review.

I’m pretty sure that by now I’ve made it clear that I’m all about lube! A couple of weeks ago I wrote a brief piece on the pros and cons of silicone lubricant and think it’s only fair to give water-based products the same treatment. I’m a pretty big fan of silicone lubes like iLube, but always have a couple of bottles of quality water-based slippery stuff at arm’s reach!

The one reason I find myself reaching for a water-based lubricant the most is because I have a lot of silicone toys.  Since most are compatible with just about everything, I don’t have to worry about a chemical reaction breaking down my expensive silicone dong, condoms or dental dams.  If you’ve been paying attention, you know that silicone lubes can’t be used with silicone toys, so a good water-based lube is a must have.

Another great thing about water-based lubes is that, in my experience, they more closely resemble my natural lubrication.  If that’s important to you, I’d definitely recommend a product like O’My Natural Lubricant.  It’s doesn’t feel greasy or leave a mess, it just helps to reduce friction and keep things plenty slick!

The final big selling point for water-based lubricant is that clean up is a snap!  It easily washes away with soap and water and it typically doesn’t stain your sheets.  Nothing ruins the memory of a good night like seeing a big stain on your expensive sheets!

Of course, nothing is perfect, and there are a few drawbacks to this stuff.  First, it doesn’t typically last as long as a silicone-based product.  That means you may need to stop the action to reapply or reactivate with water, which is a total buzz kill.  It’s also worthless if you’re looking to play in water because it simply dissipates.

For any lube, I’d recommend staying away from parabens, sugar derivitives and glycerin.  It’s always best to check out the list of ingrediants before purchasing any product you’re going to put inside your body!

While I love water-based lubricant, I don’t really think there is a single lube that is perfect for every situation and that investing in a couple of quality bottles is a great idea.  There’s one thing that I do know for sure – lube is a great way to enhance your sex life.