We are proud to announce the release of ASIAC’s new hypoallergenic safe sex kit, which debuted last night at our Sextalk workshop. The kit contains 3 nitrile gloves, 2 polyisoprene condoms, 1 polyurethane female condom, 1 glycerin and paraben-free lube pillow, and a few cotton balls. hotpot! steering committee member Van introduced her own personal kit contents to ASIAC who took the idea and made it an accessible resource for everyone.
So what does this all mean?
- The primary purpose of this kit appeals to those with latex allergies which can make safe sex difficult with the lack of easily accessible alternatives (non-latex condoms are much more expensive than regular ones). A positive side effect of using non-latex condoms that everyone can enjoy is that it doesn’t have the rubbery smell/taste of latex and transfers heat better than latex, which may make a more intimate experience for some.
- Non-latex gloves (in this packet, nitrile) allows you to keep your hands clean from wherever you’re playing as well as keep your dirty hands (pun intended) from potentially contaminating your partner.
- Glycerin is an ingredient commonly found in most lubes on the market that provides a slightly sweet taste to it. However, synthetic glycerin can trigger yeast infections in some people, and large amounts can damage mucous membranes; i.e. it can be an irritant to some people and when enough is used, it can be potentially unsafe.
- Parabens are a range of synthetic preservatives that mimics estrogen and is potentially linked with breast cancer.
- Those who prefer to have longer nails, bite their nails, or otherwise have finger tips that may be a little sharp no longer have to worry about whether or not they can use their hands to please their partners! Just add a cotton ball or two into the fingertips of the gloves and you’re all set to have fun.
All of this is generously provided by ASIAC, a non-profit 501(c)3 community based organization dedicated to providing culturally sensitive and language appropriate HIV and other related services to Asians & Pacific Islanders (APIs) and their partners, family members, friends and service providers in the Philadelphia area. You may make an appointment by calling them at 215.629.2300 x123, or emailing them at TESTING@ASIAC.org. They are located at 1711 S. Broad Street.
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