I love that we live in a world where it makes more sense to theorize that an almost entirely apolitical celebrity was “killed and replaced”, or underwent a cosmetic procedure that has had no impact on his appearance whatsoever, than acknowledge the possibility of him having complications after breaking his jaw eight years ago. 

And, by “love”, I mean despise it beyond all words. 

Regardless of the above idiocy and the internet’s collective retention skills of a goldfish, Zac, honey, you look great, and you’re doing amazing. Keep on being you. 

Do you have a few minutes to talk, one-on-one?

ash’s been facetiming with her sisters at home, wherever home is for her family right now. we get the chance to overhear her sister saying that she saw kaidan in a news vid and that he’s cute, to which we get to raise our eyebrows... unless you’re playing a maleshep, in which case her sister says that you’re the one who’s cute. (naturally, this is the starter for the ashley romance for a mshep.)

ash herself doesn’t think kaidan’s cute - or at the very least, she’s not sweet on him, so we take the chance to ask about her family instead.

Shepard: Did your father serve with the fleet?

Ashley: Yeah. Took any crap posting he could get that offered space time. He worked his ass off trying to get recognised. But he never got above Serviceman Third Class. He was real proud when I made Chief. First thing he did was salute.

Shepard: What about your mother? You haven’t mentioned her.

Ashley: You must know what military wives are like. Strong because they have to be. Able to raise kids while Dad’s away on a six-month cruise. She has a degree in planetary geology. She and Dad both wanted to see new worlds. She gave up her career to raise us, though.

innocuous enough, but it stands out to me that ash’s family is all still hale and healthy. maybe that’s just a byproduct of the final fantasy franchise, where i’ve gotten used to a 99.99% rate of at least one parental death for characters within the series (as an aside, if you can tell me one character who has both parents alive other than zack fair, i’ll publicly endorse you for whatever role you want to lead), but also within the normandy so far. the rest of our crew has either committed patricide, is estranged from one parental unit, or just straight up hasn’t mentioned one or both of them, so a full family unit isn’t exactly something to be sniffed at.

on its own, i don’t need to highlight the parentification that ashley’s been party to for her whole life - she mentions she’s the eldest of four sisters, with the youngest still being in high school. and ash is only 25! she’s had to have worked her absolute ass off to attain that kind of position and be relied on by her parents to help with the other kids, and i just... i respect ashley so much. let’s not forget that first contact only occurred the year before she was born. there’s been a lot of change in her life, both as quick as the digital age upon us in the last decade or two, and slow over her years of growing up.

we get to ask about her sisters in more depth; she says her relationship with the youngest, sarah, was rocky for a while up until the point where sarah got a boyfriend that wanted to go further than she did. her other sisters worried as well, and ashley was posted in the same galaxy, but too far away to make it back quickly if something happened.

Shepard: If he really liked her, he wouldn’t be pushy.

i really like her dialogue here, honestly. it’s a real human response of her! ash definitely feels like the most real of the characters aboard the ship, to me - her responses to things are flawed and shitty, but she’s self aware of it to a degree, and she’s not the kind of person that acts black and white, either end of the morality scale. who among us can really say that they’re the pinnacle of human morals? even the best of us have thought things like this before, in varying contexts - even if we don’t verbalise them. doesn’t make us bad people... just human.

sarah’s boyfriend thought he’d try and persuade her into having sex, and sarah herself threw him into a tree and left him then and there. the williams parents had all their daughters learn some kind of self-defense - ash herself was taught hand-to-hand, sarah learned aikido, the second eldest got pistol training, and the third picked up the sword, which is just. utterly hilarious on a galactic scale considering the setting. i think i love the williams family.

Shepard: Didn’t you call the police?

Ashley: [Sarah] said it wouldn’t solve the real problem. And she and Mike would both become household names. It was a small colony. I said it was her call to make. That we should let her do it her way. Mom was pretty pissed about that.

ash took leave to walk her sister to school and back, and on the last day of her leave, the boy in question was waiting after school.

so this SURE IS A STORY,

and that’s the end of the talk about her sisters. it makes me feel fuzzy that these girls - no matter how not real they are - have the presence of mind to deal with an abuser so calmly, but at the same time... leaves me feeling tired. not that i expect humans to ever really change, especially not in only a hundred odd years, but for this setting to be so expansive, for there to be bigger problems and more people around than anyone could ever have dreamed... and yet entitlement and abuse still runs rampant.

this is its own problem within the universe, that despite everything, a female shepard doesn’t quite have the same footing as a male shepard does in certain situations, but i’ll get to those when i get to it. besides... i suppose there are bigger things happening now in the real world than anyone could ever have dreamed of seeing, and petty problems still win out in terms of importance. doesn’t matter how small your problem is if it’s personal.

we’re not done quite yet, though.

Ashley: Dad always wanted to serve in space. But he wanted us to have real ground under our feet. He’d say, “Space is beautiful, but you can’t raise a family there.”

Ashley: “I cannot rest from travel: I will drink life to the lees. All times I have enjoy’d greatly, have suffer’d greatly, both with those that loved me, and alone. For always roaming with a hungry heart. Much have I seen and known. Cities of men, and manners, climates, councils, governments...”

Ashley: “Ulysses” was Dad’s favourite poem. Every time he shipped out, he recorded me reading it. He had a dozen versions when he retired.

Shepard: Does he still like it?

Ashley: I sure hope so. I read it to his grave every time I go home.

Lord Alfred Tennyson was a well known (and still popularised) British poet, best known for his poems The Charge of the Light Brigade, which i studied at school, and Ulysses. his work is still felt today with phrases that became commonplace from his work, like the lines “tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all”.

the lines ash quotes specifically are about the restlessness of wanderlust and wanting to live life utterly to the fullest, feeling nostalgic for the times when the subject was doing just that, and the full poem continues and ends with the assertion that the speaker’s goal is to continue living life wholeheartedly until the end, and even beyond.

speaking of the beyond-

Ashley: That’s not a problem with you, is it? That I believe in God?

and we reach out to take the hand of yet another utterly fascinating facet of ashley. we’ve seen religion briefly within the game so far - the preaching hanar on the citadel comes immediately to mind - but there’s always been a feeling within sci-fi that because the universe can now be explored that god isn’t real and that things like faith are tossed to the wayside in favour of scientific exploration and discovery, even though in the grand scheme of things people tend... not to behave like that, on the whole. i vastly, enormously appreciate ashley for keeping her faith, and for it to be really not a huge part of her character. at no point is she reduced to any stereotype of character, whether that be “gun-toting god-fearing soldier babe”, or “i am religious therefore i must preach” - it, like other parts of her personality, are only parts that make up a whole and do not define her.

i love ashley. she’s such a good character.

Let’s Talk

I’ve thought a lot about the situation concerning Ashley/Black Veil and the greater issues at hand here over the past few days. I’ve also spoken with a lot of people about things. 

Personally, this situation has turned into something that is causing myself to lose sleep and become very anxious. The likelihood that Ashley actually gets formally reprimanded for his actions is low just based on how cases like this typically go, and it’s quite clear that while people now know the type of person he is and that his career in music is over, those who still support him will continue no matter what. He will more than likely dwindle into irrelevancy and probably end up in jail for drinking and driving eventually. 

I have personally witnessed how this has affected the people involved, some of which are even close friends of mine. I believe that Twitter is great for some things, and catching people’s attention and spreading information is one of those things, but it can also be an incredibly toxic place. As a victim of sexual assault myself I feel for every one of the victims and fighting with people every day on Twitter who are willing to go to disgusting lengths to defend monsters like Ashley is exhausting. In my personal opinion at this point I believe people’s mental health is being harmed by the back and forth (not speaking for everyone, but I have personally seen how this is affecting people’s lives). And I don’t know how much more good can come from more Twitter arguments. 

With my MCAT approaching I need to get myself in the right head space and jumping every time my phone goes off because is it someone attacking me? Is it another victim? Is it someone in pain? That’s not a good head space. I also see the conversation at times going in a direction that I am not comfortable with or that I do not have enough information to put myself in. 

I do not want to out victims or people that do not want to have their story out there. I do not want to hunt down people and make them relive their trauma or pressure them to speak when doing so could cause a significant disruption to their lives. I’m not saying that is what is happening but I just don’t want it to A) come off that way or B) become that. In addition to that, it is very clear from a legal standpoint that Black Veil cannot say what people want them to say without breaking the NDA (at the benefit of Ashley). Ashley has retreated to his subscription only accounts and so that kind of leaves everyone at a stand still. This situation is incredibly complicated and perhaps in time there can be a conversation had but I just don’t think that time is right now. 

Speaking broadly, I will say that I am not for the cancellation of entire groups of people based of the actions of one person. I believe doing so can bring down innocent people or even potentially other victims. Should there be some punishment for succumbing to the bystander effect? I think that is fair, I think you can’t make blanket one size fits all statements but inaction can hurt too. And I think you should try and gather as many facts before deciding on any form of punishment for actions or inaction. Should you give people the chance to own up to their shortcomings and change for the better? I think so. Should inaction receive the same punishment as actions? I don’t think so, I think doing so allows the truly evil to fade into the background and minimizes their actions. 

I want to see significant change in the music industry with not only more protection for fans but for musicians as well. I see young kids, sometimes not even 18 thrown into an industry that has a habit of making monsters and addicts. The amount of leeches that feed and prey on these young musicians and don’t give a second thought to if that harms them is a big issue. Stop normalizing alcoholism and addiction. Stop watching your bandmate drink themself into a blackout every night.  Don’t create situations where a power dynamic allows people to get away with criminal actions. Check your bandmate when they say or do problematic things. I think there’s been a culture of ‘everyone looks after themselves’ but that’s clearly not working. I think if you are a band and you want to continue into the future that attitude has to change. The past can’t be changed, but the future sure as hell can. 

Beyond that, fan safety needs to be a priority. COVID-19 will change concerts and live music. And honestly, good. There should be more sanitation precautions when you have thousands of people packed together. The Route 91 mass shooting changed security at shows, and good, people should be searched for weapons. 

I think there are ideas that could prevent or reduce the situations in which sexual assault happens to fans. I think these should include things like ID scanners operated by individuals not employed by the band. No one under the age of 21 (unless they are direct family, significant other or a member of the band) be allowed on the buses. Venues need to do better ID-ing every single person that enters the venue. Tour managers and tour organizers need to do more to ensure that there are strict rules enforced as far as conduct. There needs to be a zero tolerance policy for giving alcohol/drugs to people underage and sexual misconduct. That will not prevent everything but it will make it safer and hopefully start to change the culture. 

I do not believe that every single musician is a pedophile. I think there is a disturbing number of them and I think there is another group that gets off on the power dynamic of 16-18 year old girls who worship them and that ability to control. I think there are decent people who have failed to speak out and protect their fans due to fear of their job/reputation/etc and this should serve as a notice that that’s got to change. 

This conversation tends to be very female centric but men can also be sexually abused. That’s not okay either. Band members can be sexually harassed and abused as well. It’s not okay to grab at them on stage or yell obscene disgusting things. It’s not okay for your bandmates to pressure you into drugs, sex or drinking. I will also say that physical violence is not okay. Not towards fans and not towards fellow bandmates. There’s a lot of toxicity and it’s all gotta stop. 

I will leave it up to people to make their own choices as to who they want to support or not support, I won’t tell anyone what to think. I will say that I believe it is best for this discussion to change on my blog as far as answering asks assigning blame or innocence to certain people. I stand by my accusation that Ashley Purdy is not only a sexual predator but a predator in general. But going forward I will be very selective in my answering of or posting of this topic. 

I am more than willing to continue the conversation of the issues in the alt-rock scene at large. I would love to hear people’s ideas on what can be done or just your thoughts. But for my own legal protection and sanity I would prefer that it not become specific to certain people/bands. I am open to private discussions about that and you can send in asks for only me to read but know I think this is the best move going forward. Obviously, other topics are all open and you can comment about anything else but it’s just... been a lot these past few days. 

Obviously, if something new comes out or if future incidents occur (not necessarily concerning Black Veil/Ashley but any band/person/etc) there could be more specific discussions but while I might personally believe or think certain things if I don’t have physical evidence that I am free to share (without harming the source) I don’t think it’s fair for me to open up a free for all. 

I hope that is okay with everyone. After my test and things in my life are back to a more ‘normal’ state I have further things I would like to discuss and post in regards to making my blog a more positive environment while of course still having conversations about ‘hot button’ issues, and a place where people can have discussions/comments and still speaking out when shit is fucked up. But perhaps in a way that doesn’t make me appear so hateful, because that is not who I am as a person. 

That all being said, if you are at all struggling because of the discussions being had right now. Please reach out to someone. That could be a therapist, doctor, friend, family member, counselor, etc. If you are dealing with trauma please consider seeking counseling to help you process and deal with what happened. If you feel you have evidence of criminal activity I encourage you to make a police statement or at least document it the best you can. 

I will end with this. I turn 25 this year and the past year of my life I have grown up and matured more so than I have ever before. I have learned a few things that I would like people to at least give thought to...

Please are a contradiction. Every single person has something for which they hypocritical about. Anyone who tells you differently is lying. There is no pure person, there is no one who is free of mistakes there is no one perfectly pure and consistent in ideology. It’s okay to get new information and change your opinion. No one person can change the world and evil will always exist. You will drive yourself crazy trying to eliminate all the bad out there. At the end of the day all you can do is try and help more people than you hurt. 

There are very few black and white things in life and you can’t always classify people as purely good or purely bad. People can change and that can be for better or worse. People have free will but they are also the product of their environments. It is easy to point a finger and say YOU/THIS is responsible and destroying this will right the wrong. It doesn’t. I think cancel culture can do good but it can also be toxic. Not just for the people ‘cancelled’ but also for the people doing the canceling. 

Don’t over analyze any of this or try and read between the lines, just think about it. 

The blog post Tips for Gay Dating is available on: https://blog.meetpositives.com Dating with Gays Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment. Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US. First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/) If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!   1. Be up front with what you want This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso. That being said… 2. There are a lot of directions dating can go I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new. 3. Build your own relationship Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation. 4. Sex is OK There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together. 5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date. Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.   The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections? First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw) Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health. Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy. Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis. To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections: Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use. Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles. Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors. Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men. Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period. Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications. Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have. Meet Positives Gay Dating     [Are you recently diagnosed?|} Meet Positives is a platform for people impacted with a Sexually transmitted infection Start feeling normal again Search: https://meetpositives.com /

http://hsvfacts.blogspot.com/2018/05/tips-for-gay-dating.html

Tips for Gay Dating

Tips for Gay Dating is available on: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://ift.tt/2nPqadD)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( http://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

from Meet Positives SM Feed http://ift.tt/2wr4EMq via IFTTT

Tips for Gay Dating

Tips for Gay Dating is available on: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://ift.tt/2nPqadD)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( http://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

from Meet Positives SMFeed 8 http://ift.tt/2wr4EMq via IFTTT

Tips for Gay Dating

Tips for Gay Dating is available on: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://ift.tt/2nPqadD)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( http://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

from Meet Positives SM Feed 4 http://ift.tt/2wr4EMq via IFTTT

Tips for Gay Dating

Tips for Gay Dating is available on: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://ift.tt/2nPqadD)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( http://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

from Meet Positives SM Feed 3 http://ift.tt/2wr4EMq via IFTTT

Tips for Gay Dating

Tips for Gay Dating is available on: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://ift.tt/2nPqadD)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( http://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: Meet Positives STD Dating Website

from Meet Positives SM Feed 5 http://ift.tt/2wr4EMq via IFTTT

Tips for Gay Dating

Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: Meet Positives Dating Blog

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    [Are you single?|} Meet Positives is a community for people impacted with a Never have the talk again Sign up: std support website

Tips for Gay Dating

The following blog post Tips for Gay Dating is available on:

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    [Are you dating?|} Meet Positives is a online community for people impacted with a Sexually transmitted infection Never have the talk again Search: Meet Positives STD dating

Tips for Gay Dating

The blog post Tips for Gay Dating was originally published to: https://www.blog.meetpositives.com/

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    [Are you recently diagnosed?|} Meet Positives is a community for people impacted with a sexually transmitted disease Start feeling normal again Search: secure STD dating website

Tips for Gay Dating

The following blog post Tips for Gay Dating was originally published to: https://blog.meetpositives.com

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    [Are you lonely?|} Meet Positives is a online community for people impacted with a STD Start feeling normal again Search: https://meetpositives.com /

Tips for Gay Dating

Tips for Gay Dating was first published on: https://blog.meetpositives.com

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    [Are you single?|} Meet Positives is a community for people impacted with a Sexually transmitted infection Never have the talk again Sign up: website for people with a sexually transmitted disease

The following blog post Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: https://www.blog.meetpositives.com/ Dating with Gays Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment. Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US. First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/) If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!   1. Be up front with what you want This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso. That being said… 2. There are a lot of directions dating can go I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new. 3. Build your own relationship Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation. 4. Sex is OK There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together. 5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date. Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.   The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections? First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw) Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health. Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy. Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis. To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections: Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use. Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles. Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors. Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men. Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period. Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications. Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have. Meet Positives Gay Dating     [Are you dating?|} Meet Positives is a website for people impacted with a STD Start feeling normal again Search: secure STD dating website

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Tips for Gay Dating

The following blog post Tips for Gay Dating is courtesy of: https://www.blog.meetpositives.com/

Dating with Gays

Just like everyone else, gay men are like everyone else. Gay men also looks for connection, companionship and commitment.

Many of gay men are left unsatisfied with their dating experience because they don't have proper training, education and support when they try to mingle and mate with other men. So here's a few tips on how to meet and date with gay men in the US.

First seen on: (http://www.welovedates.com/us/gay-dating/)

If you’d like to meet up with gay men, here’s some quick tips to get started with online dating to get you started!

  1. Be up front with what you want

This goes especially for dating online. Most dating devices have an assortment of boxes you can check off to indicate what sort of connections you’re looking to make. Many also have a section where you can describe more vividly what you’re looking for. Use it, and use it well. You’re not going to look too slick if your profile says you’re looking to meet the man of your dreams and your accompanying photo is a naked headless torso.

That being said…

2. There are a lot of directions dating can go

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the word ‘date’ I think ‘boyfriend interview’, which is probably why dates inspire so much anxiety in me. But there are unlimited options for what a date could mean and where it could go. A boyfriend? A plain friend? A friend with benefits? A combination or something in between? The best thing you can do is go out and have a good time with someone new.

3. Build your own relationship

Let’s say this isn’t the first date. You’ve had many before this, and you are hoping there will be many more after. Your brain is plagued with those questions: “What does this mean?”, “What are we?”, “Where are we going with this?” Breathe. Obviously this person likes you if they are dedicating this much time to you. That’s what’s important, right? As a society we spend a lot of time to emulate the romance we see in movies and on TV, or sometimes even our own friends, but as I have said before, your relationship is 100% unique, and you need to let it bloom at the rate you want it to, and it the way that you want it to (this ‘you’ being both/all of you, and not you specifically. If only it were that easy!) Have fun, get creative, and be happy with it. And don’t worry about whether or not other people understand it. You owe no one else an explanation.

4. Sex is OK

There are a lot of folks out there who like to shame folks for having sex on the first date. I don’t think it’s such a bad idea, as long as you are doing because you want to, and not because you feel like you have to. If sex is important to you, as it is with many gay men, it might be helpful to get a measure on sexual chemistry early on. Sexual tension can make or break a budding relationship; sometimes letting it build up adds to the intrigue, and sometimes you just won’t know how to connect with someone until you’ve had a good roll in the hay together.

5. It’s okay to have an unsuccessful date.

Not all dates are going to go smoothly. Sometimes you hit it off in one form or another, and sometimes there is absolutely zero chemistry. Your date may be a really nice guy! But that doesn’t mean he’s a great match. I have had several dates in the last year with some very nice young men…whom I felt very little desire to see again. I thought the lack of chemistry between us was perfectly palpable, and yet they still asked to see me again. The point here is…don’t be afraid to admit when a date ends with no fireworks. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to force chemistry with someone simply because they are a decent human being, however hard they may be to come by.

  The recent study shows that the most number of gay men got the virus from their partners online. So how can you make sure that you are protected from STD infections?

First seen on ( https://ift.tt/2oeukYw)

Understand important health issues for gay men and men who have sex with men — from sexually transmitted infections to depression — and get tips for taking charge of your health.

Although your individual risks are shaped by many factors beyond your sexual orientation and practices — including family history and age — it's important to understand common health issues for gay men and steps you can take to stay healthy.

Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections

Men who have sex with men are at increased risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections:

Use a condom or other protection. Use a new latex or polyurethane condom every time you have sex, especially during anal sex but ideally during oral sex as well.Use only water-based lubricants, not petroleum jelly, hand lotion, cold cream or oils. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Don't share sex toys, and keep them safe by protecting them with a condom and cleaning them before and after every use.

Be monogamous. Another reliable way to avoid sexually transmitted infections is to stay in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn't infected.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, and don't use drugs. If you're under the influence, you're more likely to take sexual risks. If you choose to use injectable drugs, don't share needles.

Know the risks associated with sexual venues. Sexual venues such as bathhouses, sex parties and the Internet can facilitate multiple sexual partnerships and anonymous sexual encounters, as well as higher risk sexual behaviors.

Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, serious liver infections that can spread through sexual contact.Not all sexually transmitted infections are prevented by vaccines, however. Hepatitis C is not covered by any vaccine and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death. The HPV vaccine is available to men up to age 26. HPV is associated with anal cancer in men who have sex with men.

Get tested and have your partner tested. Don't have unprotected sex unless you're certain you and your partner aren't infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.Testing is important because many people don't know they're infected, and others might not be honest about their health.Different types of tests have a different "window period," the period of time between HIV infection and when signs of the infection show up on a test. Being tested during this time might result in a false negative. It is possible to transmit the HIV infection to someone during this period.

Consider the drug Truvada. In July 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the drug emtricitabine-tenofovir (Truvada) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection in those who are at high risk. Truvada is also used as an HIV treatment along with other medications.

Gay dating can be exciting and fun, but it can be upsetting too.  Don't be afraid to ask your potential partner to get tested first to know your status.  Make sure that you are protected when you have sex with your partner to avoid health issues in the future and make your experience more fruitful. He will be glad that you feel great discussing it with him and will have the capacity to ease any stresses you may have.

Meet Positives Gay Dating

    [Are you dating?|} Meet Positives is a website for people impacted with a STD Start feeling normal again Search: secure STD dating website