Ignite Your Pleasure

What I'm Doing to Make My Dash Matter - What Will You Do?

2011-12-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

Want to read what I sent to my list yesterday? If so, Click Here

Want to join my list go to www.igniteyourpleasure.com

See What I Have to Say on Extra...

2011-07-18T09:40:00.001-07:00

Check out this fun segment for extra that features me and Michelle Adams from Lonny Magazine.

Tell good in bed what you think and get a free ebook

2011-04-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

In a long-term relationship? Fill out the Good in Bed Research survey and get a free ebook of your choice from the site:

Want (To Have or Host) The Hottest Bachelorette Party In Town?

2011-02-16T15:17:00.000-08:00

Find out about my exclusive bachelorette soirées that provide tidbits, tips and tricks. Ultimately, inspiring you and your guests--whether single or coupled--to become savvy and empowered in and out of the bedroom.

Click here to learn more about my bachelorette soirées or call 212.686.5359.

HAPPY, HEALTHY AND HOT! PROGRAM

2011-01-17T11:59:00.000-08:00

FEATURED COACH FOR HAPPY, HEALTHY AND HOT! PROGRAM

"The Happy, Healthy & Hot Program" is designed to help you fall in love with your body and step into the life you want in 2011. My friend Lisa Fabrega has designed this 24 week program of eating delicious body & soul-nourishing food, loving your body to effortlessly reach your natural weight and finally stepping into the life you've always wanted. It's a fabulous program packed full of bonuses and gifts to help you get to the body and life you want. There's something magical that happens when we seek the support and guidance we need, and we go on a deep journey of transformation and growth in the presence of other like-minded powerful women!

In addition, Lisa is offering an extra $100.00 off for the first 3 people who sign up (there's still one spot left for this special pricing!) AND if you have any questions about the program, you can email her and she will give you a free 30 minute Strategy Session to determine if the program is the right fit for you!

We've Moved to Studio Anya

2010-10-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

We're excited to announce that Sex Ed Solutions has moved to Studio Anya. Schedule a coaching session now by calling 212.686.5359. We look forward to working with you in our new home.

Talking With Your Kids About Sex—If Not Now, When?

2010-09-20T07:08:00.000-07:00

Want to talk with your kids about sexuality, but not sure when to start, what to say or how to keep the conversations ongoing? This workshop is for parents and caregivers of newborns, toddlers, young children, tweens and teens.

Led by Amy Levine, MA, CSE—a nationally recognized sex coach, certified sexuality educator and founder of www.sexedsolutions.com—you'll learn tips and tricks to raise sexually healthy kids in a world of mixed messages. So, plan a play-date for your children to spend time with friends so you can attend (or feel free to bring your infant along), and take the time to make a difference in their lives.

Sunday, October 10th
1:30-3pm
Studio Anya, NYC

Register here before tickets are sold out: http://talkingwithkidsaboutsex.eventbrite.com/

Sex, Wine & Chocolate--Sign up before it's sold out!

2010-09-16T04:43:00.000-07:00

Sex, Wine & Chocolate
Coco de Mer, NYC, 236 Elizabeth Street (btw Houston and Prince)
Tuesday, October 5th, 7:00 p.m.
$75

What more could anyone want? All three benefit your health and bring pleasure. Savor every sip, taste and touch more fully through this decadent tasting of wine and chocolate, which integrates a unique look at the intersection of these three joys in life. Wine educator Tracy Ellen Kamens will help you appreciate a series of wines on a deeper level by breathing in their scent and savoring the taste, especially when paired with rich chocolates. Sexuality educator Amy Levine will relate how this attention to detail enhances intimacy and sexual satisfaction, as well as addressing sensual touch techniques. Talking, sharing and laughing are encouraged in this classroom as participants practice how descriptive words heighten enjoyment. The owner of Grand Cru Classes, Tracy Ellen Kamens is a Certified Wine Educator who combines her love of teaching with her passion for wine. Amy Levine is a nationally recognized sex coach, certified sexuality educator and founder of Sex Ed Solutions whose mission is to inspire singles and couples to be savvy and empowered in and out of the bedroom.

Coco de Mer accepts reservations over the phone or at the store. To RSVP please call 212 966 9069.

Sex Ed Conference of the Year!

2010-09-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

The Center for Family Life Education (CFLE), a national leader in sexuality education, is celebrating its 30th year by hosting its first TWO-DAY Sex Ed Conference on November 18th and 19th. This year’s conference features experts in the field of sexuality presenting 28 workshops about a variety of topics including sexuality and disability, sex and the media, how poverty affects learning, pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection prevention, gender and sexual orientation, healthy relationships, sexual violence, technology and more. www.sexedconference.com

Double-Duty has Many Meanings

2009-07-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I was on Rachael Ray the other day for my double-duty cleaning tip. When they originally called, I thought they wanted me to do a segment on sex. Who knew my cleaning tips were in such demand?!?! It was a fun experience, so check out what I have to say. Just remember, not to use dryer sheets on porous surfaces like Teflon, as the smell seeps out of the oven when it's heated (something that's likely not healthy). Only use it on glass, stainless steel and other non-porous products.

Mengagement Rings: Proposals Come Full Circle

2009-06-24T08:01:00.000-07:00

I heard exciting news this week that a friend got engaged. Aside from the beautiful story of the question being popped on the Brooklyn Bridge during a bike ride back to the borough, it gets even better! He wanted a mengagement ring, a symbol to mark the change in his single status. I know of two men who absolutely wanted wedding bands before they got hitched--but this is the first time I actually knew of someone who went with his fiancee to pick out of ring for himself. I love it! After all, while women often can't wait to adorn their finger with a rock, we want our partners to advertise that their taken too!

Sexual Scientists Applaud President Obama's Budget for Sex Education

2009-05-20T06:03:00.000-07:00

ALLENTOWN, PA — The Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (SSSS) applauded President Barack Obama’s decision not to fund “abstinence-only-until-marriage” (AOUM) programs in his 2010 budget proposal.

Despite repeated independent analyses that have concluded “just say no” AOUM programs do not work and put America’s teenagers at risk for pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and other negative outcomes, more than $1.5 billion in taxpayer money has been spent in recent years on AOUM programs.

In making his decision, President Obama designated federal funds to scientifically-evaluated teen pregnancy prevention programs that allow sex educators to teach about abstinence, as well as methods of contraception and prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

“President Obama is making good on his promise to ‘restore science to its rightful place,’” said Konstance McCaffree, president of the Society. “Teen health is one area where public policy must be guided by sexual science.”

McCaffree pointed to evidence-based programs approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for their efficacy, as well as research in the American Journal of Sexuality Education, the Journal of Adolescent Health, and other peer-reviewed academic resources that have described the success of sex education programs.

“The research has been there for quite some time, but the funding has not. We are delighted the president has made teen pregnancy prevention a priority. Moreover, we are encouraged to see his support of programs that have an evidence-based, scientific foundation.”

For Further Information Contact Bill Taverner, M.A. at btaverner@sexualscience.org

2009-02-24T17:40:00.000-08:00

I just learned about My Little Red Book, a fantastic project started by Rachel Kauder Nalebuff. This little red companion tells first period stories, breaking the silence of many women to talk about their first time for the first time. The book aims to provide support, entertainment, and a starting point for discussion for mothers and daughters everywhere. Royalties from sales of the book are being donated to charities promoting women's health and education.

The truth about teens and sexting

2009-01-25T13:54:00.000-08:00

According to a recent press release from The National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy and CosmoGirl.com, one in five teen girls (22%)—and 11% of teen girls ages 13-16 years old—say they have electronically sent, or posted online, nude or semi-nude images of themselves. The survey reports that these racy images are also getting passed around: One-third (33%) of teen boys and one-quarter (25%) of teen girls say they have had nude/semi-nude images—originally meant to be private—shared with them.

The survey of 1,280 teens and young adults—conducted online by TRU, a global leader in research on teens and 20 somethings—indicates that 15% of teens who have sent sexually suggestive content such as text messages, email, photographs or video say they have done so with someone they only know online.

Teen girls are not the only ones sharing sexually explicit content. Almost one in five teen boys (18%) say they have sent or posted nude/semi nude images of themselves. One-third (33%) of young adults—36% of women and 31% of men ages 20-26—say they have sent or posted such images. What teens and young adults are doing electronically seems to have an effect on what they do in real life: Nearly one-quarter of teens (22%) admit that technology makes them personally more forward and aggressive. More than one-third of teens (38%) say exchanging sexy content makes dating or hooking up with others more likely and nearly one-third of teens (29%) believe those exchanging sexy content are “expected” to date or hook up.

“Teenagers are early adopters of technology—from the latest social networking sites to the hottest new cell phones,” says Susan Schulz, Special Projects Editor, Hearst Magazines. “While this tech savvy can be seen as a positive, our study reveals there's also a negative side. Teenagers should be aware of the real consequences to this type of behavior and we need to provide them with guidance and encourage them to make smart choices.”

“That so many young people say technology is encouraging an even more casual, hook-up culture is reason for concern, given the high rates of teen and unplanned pregnancy in the United States,” said Marisa Nightingale, Senior Advisor to the Entertainment Media Program at the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy. “Parents should understand that their own notions of what’s public, what’s private, and what’s appropriate, may differ greatly from how
teens and young adults define these concepts.”

Other findings from the survey include:

• Sending sexually suggestive messages is even more prevalent than sending nude/semi-nude images. Nearly half of young people (49% total, 39% of teens, 59% of young adults) have sent sexually suggestive text messages or email messages to someone.

• Even more have received sexually suggestive messages: 48% of teens and 64% of young adults (56% total). Fully one-third of young teen girls (ages 13-16) have received sexually suggestive messages.

• Teen girls who have sent or posted sexually suggestive content provide a number of reasons why: Two-thirds (66%) say they did so to be “fun or flirtatious,” half (52%) did so as a “sexy present” for their boyfriend, and 40% as a “joke.”

• Even though nearly three-quarters of young people (73% total, 75% of teens, 71% of young adults) say that sending sexually suggestive content “can have serious negative consequences,” nearly one-quarter (22% total, 19% of teens and 26% of young adults) say sending sexually suggestive content is “no big deal.”

Please visit www.thenationalcampaign.org/sextech and www.cosmogirl.com/sexsurvey for more information about the survey, tips for parents and teens, and other related materials.

Looks can be deceiving

2009-01-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Mrs. Jones,
I wish to clarify that I am not now, nor have I ever been, an exotic dancer. I work at Home Depot and I told my daughter how hectic it was last week before the blizzard hit. I told her we sold out every single shovel we had, and then I found one more in the back room, and that several people were fighting over who would get it. Her picture doesn't show me dancing around a pole. It's supposed to depict me selling the last snow shovel we had at Home Depot.

From now on I will remember to check her homework more thoroughly before she turns it in.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Smith

My latest gig: Interviewing celebrity moms

2009-01-20T15:32:00.000-08:00

The documentary The Business of Being Born made such a positive impact on me that I immediately wanted to interview Ricki and Abby. So, I pitched a celebrity interview article to Pregnancy and Baby, and now have another gig.

Check out two recent interviews:

Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein

Gabby Reece

Know of any celebrity moms that fit the bill... send them my way.

The Girl Effect: Get 600 million girls out of poverty and change the world

2008-12-04T10:04:00.000-08:00

The Girl Effect

I just learned of this amazing initiative. Click on the link above and watch the video--the words speak for themselves. Learn, create change, and watch girls and the world reap the rewards!

Raise Money with a Celeb-styled Lifestyles Condom Box

2008-12-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

Today is World AIDS Day. There are so many way to take action and make a difference to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.

For starters, help save lives by placing a bid in the LifeStyles Celebrity Pop Art Auction.

All you have to do is place your bids December 1-5 on LifeStyles condom boxes designed exclusively by some of today’s hottest celebrities including Ethan Hawke, Marc Ecko and more.

All proceeds go to YouthAIDS – an education and prevention initiative using media, pop culture, music, theatre and sports to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS by reaching out to 600 million young people in more than 60 countries with life-saving messages, products, services and care.

Check out the December Sex Ed Solutions Newsletter for more ideas of how you can make a difference.

Cherry TV--my new fun endeavor into the world of online TV content

2008-11-12T16:22:00.001-08:00

I had a blast filming upcoming segments. Featured videos thus far address Curable STDs and STD Testing. Check out my online TV debut.

A Benefit for the New Space for Women's Health

2008-11-06T09:50:00.000-08:00

Ricki Lake to host Women Come First: A Benefit for the New Space for Women's Health at Babeland

Confirmed notable guests include: Ricki Lake, Helen Hunt, Erica Reid, Todd Oldham- more to be announced.

On Tuesday, November 18th at 7 pm, acclaimed actress, producer and former talk show host Ricki Lake will host Women Come First: An Evening to Benefit to the New Space for Women’s Health at Babeland SoHo. Ricki is a board member of the New Space, which will open New York City’s only independent women’s birth and health center next year. Babeland, the city’s premiere sex toy shop, is hosting the event, and Urban Decay cosmetics is the headline sponsor.

Earlier this year, Ricki produced “The Business of Being Born,” a documentary about midwifery and the state of birthing in America today. Babeland and the New Space have recently joined forces to launch a speaker series on issues pertaining to motherhood and sexuality at Babeland’s newest store in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

What: Women Come First: An Evening to Support the New Space for Women’s Health is a benefit party hosted by Babeland, sponsored by Urban Decay
Where: Babeland SoHo, 43 Mercer Street at Grand, New York City
When: Tuesday, November 18th, 7PM-10PM
Tickets available at www.newspacenyc.org/events/

About The New Space for Women’s Health, a project of Friends of the Birth Center
The New Space for Women’s Health grew out of the community of the Elizabeth Seton Childbearing Center, which, challenged by insurance demands and increasing costs, closed in 2003. Once open, the center will create an environment where midwives, mental health professionals, family educators and a community of other professionals will provide more than 20,000 women and families each year with prenatal and postpartum care, childbirth education, gynecological services, social work, and psychological care in a welcoming and environmentally sustainable setting. www.newspacenyc.org.

My latest article for Pregnancy and Baby

2008-10-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Check out my latest article Birthing Tips from the Experts on Pregnancy and Baby, and learn how to let a Doula help you to manage your birth, find an acupuncturist before your due date, and that episiotomies aren't as necessary as you might think.

By the way...you might have an STD

2008-10-22T13:18:00.001-07:00

Have you heard about the website inspot.org that has cornered the market for e-cards to let current or past sex partners know they should get tested for STDs? Hopefully, you won't need to send any...

New brides expect better sex after the big 'I Do'

2008-10-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

Brides.com went through all this trouble to poll women online, and the women took the time to answer. The press release is below. What they forgot to address: Many couples don't even end up having sex on their wedding night!

Great 'Sex-pectations': Brides.com Survey Reveals Majority of New Brides Expect Better Sex After the Big 'I Do'

Over A Third Fantasize About A Different Partner When In Bed With Their Fiance

Nearly A Quarter Plan To Spice Up Their Wedding Night & Honeymoon With A Sex Toy

NEW YORK, Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- More than half (52%) of brides-to-be expect that their sex lives will improve after walking down the aisle, according to a new survey from Brides.com (www.brides.com), Conde Nast's premier destination bridal Web site. Before that walk, however, more than a third (37%) admit to fantasizing about "another man" when in bed with their fiance. A good number (76%) also say that their sex life has either simply stayed the same or worsened since they got engaged.

Poll results additionally indicate that new brides agree that the wedding night and honeymoon warrant something special in the boudoir. Nearly a quarter (24%) said that they plan on purchasing a sex toy for the occasion and an overwhelming majority (95%) plans on buying new lingerie.

In order to make the wedding night sex even more memorable, most brides (92%) plan to sleep in separate beds the evening before their nuptials, with many (42%) intending to halt sexual activity well before they head to the altar. Of those planning a bedroom hiatus, a majority (53%) expects to abstain for a month or longer.

In addition, there is a percentage for whom the wedding night will not require anything new to spice up the bedroom, with more than one in ten (11%) respondents stating that they want to say "I do" before having sex for the first time.

Methodology:

The poll results contained in this release are non-scientific and are based on questions posted on Brides.com from June 18 - 30, 2008. A total of 2206 women answered the online questions.

Is cheating in his genes?

2008-10-12T10:31:00.001-07:00

A recent study by researchers at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm suggests a scientific basis for men's tendency to cheat. Their study found that men who carry one or two copies of a gene variant called “allele 334” were twice as likely to have had marital or relationship issues in the past year than those who don’t have the gene.

See what some experts have to say in an MSNBC article.

Is your school sexually healthy?

2008-10-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, the maker's of Trojan condoms released the results of their third annual Trojan Sexual Health Report Card. The report card ranked more than 130 colleges and universities across the county. While the methodology is unclear--as to how many people participated in the ranking and what it actually takes for their school to be included, it's a good gauge of what's happening on campus.

I'm not sure why NYU isn't on the list and have inquired as to why. However, it's no surprise that the Catholic colleges and universities are among the least sexually healthy.

Click on the Report Card for more details.

Dishing intimate details about your sex life with mom and dad

2008-09-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

I have two confessions. One that I sometimes watch MTV. I can't get enough of the reality shows that sensationalize sexuality. It's part of my job as a sex expert to be able to deconstruct these shows and comment on them at times. The second...well, read on.

The other night while channel surfing, I came across the show Sex: with mom and dad. Perhaps you've seen it. It was in previews giving us all a sneak peak before the premiere on September 29th. And now for the confession...I auditioned for this show. I'm sure a lot of experts auditioned. Funny to think Dr. Drew was the chosen one. The show definitely gets families confessing and talking. It does so with Dr. Drew's intervention in a therapy type setting, assigning homework for the teen and parents to complete together. I specifically remember talking to the producer about homework assignments and how research shows this is effective. Perhaps I helped shape the segment. But, from what I've seen so far, these assignments get them talking about who they have had sex with and how many times--both the teens and the parents. This isn't my idea of success. Talking yes, focusing on the intimate details, not so much. No doubt, this shock value will cause ratings to soar.

Buckle Up: A Scandalous 90210 Season Ahead

2008-09-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

Home last Tuesday night, I decided to watch the new 90210. I remember watching the original when Donna was still a virgin, and the cast dealt with the trials and tribulations of being a teen. This time around, from the beginning of the season, the characters face the same angst...10-fold.

Naomi Clark, the rich daddy's little girl, receives a brand new Mercedes when her dad needs to cancel their trip to Vegas because he has too much work to do. Later that night, she decides to bring her dad dinner at the office only to find him outside the building making out with someone other than her mother. In tears, Naomi goes to meet her friends for solace.

The next day she decides to tell her mom and learns from her that the mistress's name is Gayle. With a straight face and a slight smile, Mrs. Clark tells Naomi she's known about Gayle for the past two years. The taboo admission: Mrs. Clark happily accepts the situation so she can enjoy the lavish lifestyle her husband provides. Is this the new teachable moment?!?! Did you ever think you would need to talk with your kids about these types of relationships? Hold on as we see what the rest of the season has in store.

Sex Ed: A Hot Topic in '08 Presidential Election

2008-09-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Watching CNN on Labor Day, two topics dominate the screen: Gustav and the Republican National Convention. And, then Sarah Palin's pregnant daughter surfaces bringing sex ed front and center. Gearing up for the election, I have decided to finally post all the recent data on the topic. This will be an ongoing list as old data is uncovered and new data is released.

Abstinence-Only and Comprehensive Sex Education and the Initiation of Sexual Activity and Teen Pregnancy, March 2008

Emerging Answers 2007: Research Findings on Programs to Reduce Teen Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Systematic Review of Abstinence-Plus HIV Prevention Programs in High-Income Countries

Impacts of the Heritage Keepers ® Life Skills Education Component

Sexual abstinence only programmes to prevent HIV infection in high income countries: systematic review

Impacts of Four Title V, Section 510 Abstinence Education Programs

Condoms:

Association Between Condom Use at Sexual Debut and Subsequent Sexual Trajectories: A Longitudinal Study Using Biomarkers

Government Stats on Teen Sexual Behavior

2008-07-19T17:08:00.000-07:00

This summer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released the 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System(YRBSS). The YRBSS, surveys high school students and tracks different health risk behaviors, including sexual behaviors that contribute to unintended pregnancies and STDs. The YRBSS surveyed more than 14,000 students from across the country. The results for sexual behavior included the following:

· 47.8% of students reported ever having had sexual intercourse (46.8% in 2005)

· 7.1% of students reported having had sex before age 13 (6.2% in 2005)

· 14.9% of students reported having had sex with four or more sexual partners (14.3% in 2005)

· 35.0% of students reported being currently sexually active, defined as having had
sexual intercourse in the three months prior to the survey (33.9% in 2005)

· 61.5% of sexually active students reported that either they or their partner had
used a condom during last sex (62.8% in 2005)

· 89.5 % of students reported having been taught about AIDS or HIV in school (87.9% in 2005)

Since the last YRBSS, conducted two years ago, little positive change has been made relating to teen sexual behavior. Hopefully, this is not the beginning of a trend that can likely be linked to abstinence-only-until-marriage programs. If only Washington would wake up and read the research that it's the comprehensive approach that's proven to work.

Sex in America: A 20/20 Must See

2008-07-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

Last night, 20/20 was devoted to Sex in America addressing attitudes on laws related to sexuality. We all know our society is saturated with messages and images about sexuality, but state and government efforts--not to mention money--are being wasted on controlling sexuality in the bedroom and society. If this much effort was put towards sexuality education--we would be more sexually healthy as a whole. This excellent program is sure to awake the advocate in you to speak out to local, state, and national policymakers.

Here's the 20/20 description about this must see episode:

Sex today is everywhere, from television and movies to the internet to images in ads and even store windows. It's more in your face than ever before. But how big a problem is this? Or is it a problem at all? John Stossel examines sex in America: from attitudes towards sex in this country, to the laws our government makes about where we can have it, whom we can have it with and when we must be protected from seeing it.

Sex Culture: Parents cringe watching television with their kids, says Peter Sprigg of the Family Research Council, a group disturbed by all the sex that's in the public square. With so many programs pushing the sexual envelope, Sprigg says he can barely find anything appropriate to watch with his young son. Stossel says he cringes too, but asks, ''What's the real effect? Where is the damage? Sex is more prevalent than ever, yet rape rates, divorce rates and the percentage of teens having pre-marital sex have been declining over recent years. So isn't this good news?'' Dr. Marty Klein argues that some in America wage a ''war on sex.''

Policing Sex: Police staked out a nearly empty park to arrest a man who, when a topless woman asked him to show her his private parts, complied. In Laredo, Texas, police arrested the Chippendale Dancers. In Alabama, legislators have banned the sale of sex toys. The punishment for buying a toy can be arrest and a fine up to $10,000 dollars, which is five times that for drunken driving.

Polygamy: Peter Sprigg says, ''Slavery and polygamy were the twin relics of barbarism... barbaric societies that we've tried to move beyond.'' But polygamy advocate Mark Henkel says the law is hypocritical. ''Someone like a Hugh Hefner will have a successful television show with three live-in girlfriends. And that's all okay, and he's making great money, and that's all fine and great entertainment, but if that man was to marry them, then suddenly he's a criminal! That's insane!''

Predator Laws: In order to protect children from sexual predators, states have passed laws to try to keep molesters far away. But as Stossel reports, as so often happens with many laws, there are unintended consequences, as the predator laws cast a wide net. Take Frank Rodriguez, whose consensual sexual relationship with his high school sweetheart when he was 19 and she was 15 led to his being branded for life as a sex offender - even though the two ended up marrying and having four children.

Why We Cheat: America may be waging a war on sex, but that doesn't stop anyone from doing it. Infidelity is all over the news. Even America's most desirable women like Jennifer Anniston, Halle Berry and Christie Brinkley are reported to have been cheated on. Why? Are men programmed to wander? Steve Santagati, an advice columnist and self proclaimed ''bad boy,'' says men are. Scientists confirm his assumption that men are programmed to cheat, and that even animals once thought to be monogamous are cheating. But Dr. Scott Haltzman, who wrote The Secrets of Happily Married Men, points out that couples can be faithful, and when they are, they are happier.

Texas Monthly's a Sex Ed Supporter

2008-05-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

The May issue of Texas Monthly has a fabulous article on sex ed and abstinence programs that one expert refers to as "absent education." Kudos to Katy Vine for writing Faith, Hope, & Chastity, a powerful article in what must be a progressive Texas magazine.

Sex Ed Celebrity Style

2007-12-19T14:34:00.000-08:00

The cat is out of the bag that the bun is in the oven. Jamie Lynn Spears is prego, and is quoted as saying "It was a shock for both of us, so unexpected." "I was in complete and total shock and so was he." We'll for those having sex, it's a real possibility. One would think that even if Jamie didn't have comprehensive sex ed, she would have learned this from Church, where she supposedly met boyfriend Casey Aldridge.

According to a recent report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the birth rate for teens ages 15-19 has risen 3 percent since 1991. Not to mention that unmarried childbearing has risen to a record high of 20 percent since 2002. Something must be done! ...and it's likely parents can help lower these statistics.

For parents and young people alike, this is a perfect opportunity to turn celebrity gossip into a teachable moment. Talk about your family values. Discuss the realities of teen pregnancy for many teens--especially those that don't have their own TV show. Use this topics as a stepping stone to address self-esteem, healthy relationships, sexual health, and contraception. These conversations will create stronger bonds between parents and their children, and make young people better informed about sexuality and empower them to take charge of their future.

Hurried Woman Syndrome

2007-12-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

In a time when women bring home the bacon, fry it up in a pan, and do 10 million other things in a 24-hour period, it's no wonder so many have liquidated their libido. Dr Brent Bost coined The term Hurried Woman Syndrome a few years ago. It's symptoms include being tired, wanting to eat often, gaining weight, losing sleep, lack of motivation, tiredness, increased appetite, weight gain, trouble sleeping, and low self-esteem--most women I know fit the profile perfectly. So, how can we do it all in a day, and still add sex to the to-do list? The key is to prioritize your tasks---yes! this include intimacy-- and make time for yourself. If you do, your life will be less hectic, and your sex life will be back on track!

Bush Tells You How to Talk with Your Kids

2007-10-14T10:47:00.001-07:00

A new Public Service Announcement (PSA) from the Bush Administration is telling you how to talk with your kids about sex. And, it's only advocating the message of waiting to have sex until marriage. Knowing that almost half of young people in grades 9-12 have had sex, this isn't a practical message. Besides, in a country that doesn't support same-sex marriage, the PSA and it's approach omits numerous gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth. Parents should be sharing their values with their kids, not the administration's.

Check out the full PSA on the government website http://www.4parents.gov/#psa
Speak out, and let the Bush administration hear your feedback!

Sexuality and STD/HIV State Mandates

2006-10-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

Many people don't realize that sexuality and STD/HIV education varies from state-to-state. While some states have mandates in place to enforce that young people receive some degree of sexuality and/or STD/HIV education, there are plenty of states that do not have policies, or place restrictions on what can be taught.

The Alan Guttmacher Institute recently released a policy brief that illustrates the states that mandate these topics (and those that don't), the states that stress abstinence, the states that cover contraception, whether or not parental consent is required, and if there is an opt-out permitted.

To view the brief, go to:

http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/spibs/spib_SE.pdf

Yesterday, Sexuality Issues Took Center Stage in NJ

2006-10-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

New Jersey has finally said NO! to accepting federal dollars for abstinence-only-until-marriage (A-O-U-M) programs, as they are inconsistent with New Jersey's education standards. Over the past several years, New Jersey has accepted millions of dollars to fund A-O-U-M programs. But, this year, when federal guidelines became more strict, officials cut the state free of the strings attached to the sum. A-O-U-M programs often violate students’ rights, they embrace sexist stereotypes, isolate GLBT youth, promote religious views, provide fear-based messages, and consist of medically inaccurate information--especially when discussing sexually transmitted diseases and condoms.

The other sexuality-related news...
The New Jersey State Supreme Court handed down its decision in favor of same-sex marriage. Same-sex couples from other states will be able to travel to The Garden State to get hitched. Time will tell if the legislature will choose to refer to same-sex unions as "marriages," "civil unions," or something else.

Reality Check

2006-10-26T08:37:00.001-07:00

Unless you have a body image and self-esteem as strong as steel, the media can take it's toll on the way you feel about your body. The reality--as many of us know intellectually, but sometimes forget in moments of insecurity--is that the images we see are contrived. And, it's clips like this one that put everything back in perspective, serving as a reminder to love the skin your in.

First Time

2006-10-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

I'm in a rush, need to get to my friend's house for dinner, and just set this blog up as I run out the door. This isn't about anyone's first time having sex--it's about my first attempt at blogging.