When you first start dating someone new, you usually consider their hobbies, common interests and politics to figure out if you’re a good match. Now there’s a new level of compatibility added in: you and your partner’s approach to COVID-19 safety. That means asking questions such as: If your job requires you to be around other people, what precautions do you take during and after interactions? Do you live with other people, and if so, how do you track each other’s risk of exposure to the virus? Do you go to restaurants and other public spaces?

You should be asking potential partners these queries pretty early on, ideally before meeting in person. The answers help you gain a better sense of how much exposure this person has to other people and to environments that pose a risk of contracting the coronavirus. Basically, you’re trying to assess your risk of getting sick if you start a relationship.

And even though it may feel uncomfortable to ask someone you just met about their daily whereabouts and activities, it’s essential for everyone’s health and well-being. You have to keep in mind that exposing yourself to a new partner doesn’t just affect you — the impact also extends to the people you live and work with as well as your community at large when you’re out and about.

PIGSwap is a great place to socialize in a safe way. You can connect with people from all over the world and get to know them and their sexual desires, in a safe way. You don’t have to meet people to get off with them. In fact, in today’s world, it may be safer to connect with people via online means, rather than in person. But remember, if you do meet someone in person, ask them the difficult questions first. Often, you can tell more about them by the way they answer those questions.

No matter how awkward or uncomfortable you might feel asking some of the questions, if someone else is also taking their health seriously, that person should be eager to discuss safety and precautions with you as part of the risk assessment process. You should consider this in the same way you discuss STD’s and other diseases, before you take the next step and meet in person. Stay safe and healthy for yourself and others around you.

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PrEP is the use of antiretroviral medication to prevent acquisition of HIV infection; it consists of one pill taken once a day, and is efficacious and easy to use. At present, the only medication with an FDA-approved indication for PrEP is oral tenofoviremtricitabine (TDF-FTC) which is available as a fixed-dose combination in a tablet called Truvada. Any licensed prescriber can prescribe PrEP. Primary care providers and settings should consider offering PrEP to patients at high-risk for HIV. PrEP is part of a comprehensive prevention plan that includes adherence and prevention counseling, HIV risk behavior counseling, HIV prevention education, and the provision of condoms.

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Recently, I’ve been at two different functions in town where people have come up to me and asked for an article about the proper way for a man to clean out. I was surprised to have a friend ask me at a business networking event, and then a few weeks later at the Ramrod, another person came up and asked me to please educate people on how to make sure they don’t bring a mess to the party, if you know what I mean. PIGSwap is about learning how to be a better gay man, and ironically, live a cleaner and healthier life, and if this is something that the public wants to learn about, then by all means, it’s our job to help make your lives and your sex lives better.

So, by popular demand, here are the reasons to clean out and several different options for you to choose from when making sure you’re ready for a good time. All men, regardless of the frequency with which you wish to be plowed, should know the basics of proper hygiene when it comes to keeping your rectum and anus clean.

Anal and colon health are important for all, but for active bottoms, they are paramount. To us, the anus is not only an “exit.” It is a vital part of our sexual pleasure, a secondary or even primary sexual organ. Of course, proper diet is an important factor in colon health, but keeping the colon and anus healthy is relatively easy. Simply use common sense.

First of all, please don’t call it a douche! That may be the term that people use to define cleaning out, but in reality a douche is used for feminine hygiene and instead, an enema is used for cleaning your anus. The best reason to clean out your hole is for the sensation of it all. Think about it guys! We don’t normally hold feces in the colon, but there is always residue clinging to the colonic walls. This residue hinders the sensation of pleasurable sex. Plus, it’s a much more pleasurable experience when you don’t feel like you’re full!

Throughout the history of the modern world, people have been cleaning out for many different reasons. One of which is for anal intercourse, but there are medical reasons why people should clean out, especially for a colonoscopy. In the 17^th century, a Clyster was invented to shoot water up inside one’s rectum and used up until the 19^th century when the plunger style enemas were largely replaced by enema bulb syringes and bags.

The main concerns with cleaning out are that adding water into the anus can damage the delicate lining of the bowel. This can increase the chance of sexual infections, of most concern HIV. Passing the tube into the rectum can also cut and scratch so it’s important to make sure plenty of lubrication is used and that the attachment you place inside you is nice and smooth. If you develop sudden bleeding, unusual sensations or dull achy pain it’s important to seek medical help immediately. Remember, as with anything in life, moderation is the key. Don’t overdo it! Eating cultured dairy products, such as yogurt or taking a daily supplement, can help maintain a healthy colony of beneficial flora in the digestive tract.

Because the lining of the ass is very delicate it’s important not to use any additives to the water as they may increase irritation. By far, the most important tool for reducing potential sexual infections, if you do choose to douche, is to have safe sex and use condoms. Not only do they protect against infections but can also be much easier to clean up if there are any accidents.

Cleaning out is a simple and easy process. Remember not to use too much water, or water that is too hot or too cold, as this can irritate your sensitive interior. A good rule of thumb is to evacuate the dance floor, if you know what I mean. Take a decent bowel movement before you jump into the shower. Another rule of thumb to remember, make sure the water that you put up inside you, comes out. Sometimes water can get trapped up inside you and you don’t want to experience a flash flood during intercourse, so keep in mind that you want to make sure it’s all out of you. There are a few different methods to keep in mind when choosing the right cleaning system, including shower shots, enemas, and even the “Redneck Bottle Method,” which can come in handy in a pinch.

The first method, which I highly recommend for anyone who plans on being a dynamite bottom, is the shower shot method. This is a shower cleaning system that you can install in your shower at home, which will help you to make sure that you’re ready for any party. Generally, the attach at the shower head and have a selector valve so you can use either the shower shot hose and handle, or you can use the shower. This method is very sanitary and clean and you can save time and money using this method over store bought enemas or the shower bags, which need replacing.

In the shower, simply clean around your anus with soap and water, rinse and then insert the rounded part into your rectum for a few seconds, while the water flows inside you. Make sure the water pressure is not too high and that the water is at a warm temperature. Your bowels do not have pain receptors like on your skin so it is possible to bump and even tear the lining of the colon and not notice it. Once again, and I can’t stress this enough, if you feel any sensitivity, or experience any bleeding at all, stop what you’re doing and seek medical attention immediately. Anal bleeding could be caused by a small tear, or it could be the sign of an STD or a medical condition that should get checked by a doctor.

The next method we will discuss is the enema. “An enema is the procedure of introducing liquids into the rectum and colon via the anus. The increasing volume of the liquid causes rapid expansion of the lower intestinal tract, often resulting in very uncomfortable bloating, cramping, and powerful peristalsis, a feeling of extreme urgency and complete evacuation of the lower intestinal tract. An enema has the advantage over any laxative in its speed and certainty of action, and some people prefer it for this reason.” — Wikipedia

Most enemas are small bottles, or bulbs that when squeezed, will push the liquid inside the bottles up inside your rectum. These are often a one-time shot! Many self-given enemas used at home are the packaged, disposable, sodium phosphate solutions in single-use bottles sold under a variety of brand names, or in generic formats. One of the most common available in most stores is the Fleet brand enemas, which contain a saline solution which flushes out your bowels. These units come with a lubricated nozzle attached to the top of the container. Some enemas are administered using so-called disposable bags connected to disposable tubing.

Then there’s my favorite method of all, not because it’s fancy, but because it’s funny! The “Redneck Bottle Method” is great for a quick and easy clean when you don’t have the shower shot around, on vacation or away from home, and you just want a quick clean. This method is not intended for long play sessions, but it can come in handy when you want to have some fun on the road. So what is the “Redneck Bottle Method,” you ask?

First, this method is cheap and easy and you can find everything you need at any 7-11 or gas station around the world. I recommend a 1-Liter bottle of Coca-Cola, but really, any plastic bottle will do. It’s been my experience that a 1-Liter bottle has enough water and when squeezed, produces just enough pressure to get you prepped for at least a 6- or 7-incher in a pinch. Empty the bottle (Do not use the carbonated soda for cleaning out!) and rinse it out thoroughly using soap and water. Once it is clean, fill the bottle to the rim with water, place the open bottle up to your rectum, without penetration, and squeeze the bottle. The rush of water up inside your rectum will flush out any mess. Fill the bottle up again and repeat the procedure a few times until you feel confident that you’re ready to go. One bottle can be reused several times over one weekend road trip, so in case you’re ever out in the woods with a hot bear and you’re ready to get down, you can still make sure you’re not dirty!

Disclaimer: Douching will in no way prevent the transmission of any STD. However, it may help minimize the risk of minor bacterial infections for both partners. 

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“Poppers” are known throughout the gay community as a sexual stimulant. They may be a fun time with the right partner; however there are many health effects from sniffing them. They can lower your inhibitions and lead to more unsafe sex practices. What are they, what are the health issues related to them, and how do they affect the body and your brain?

The chemical names for poppers are alkyl nitrites, isobutyl nitrite, butyl nitrite, and amyl nitrite. They are used by sniffing the vapors from an open bottle. Doctors used to prescribe amyl nitrite for heart patients. They have actually been around since the mid 1800s, but they became very popular in the 70s disco scene and in the 80s and 90s raves when people would use them on the dance floors to get a rush. Originally, they came in capsule form and would be “popped” to inhale the vapors. Amyl nitrite is sold illegally, but isobutyl nitrite and butyl nitrite are sold as “video head cleaner”, “leather cleaner”, “room deodorizer”, or “nail polish remover” in small brown bottles.

What happens to your body?

Poppers cause muscles around blood vessels to relax and make your heart speed up to pump more blood. When you sniff the vapors, the effects are often felt within a few seconds and can last for up to a minute or two. Because poppers cause the muscles around your anus to relax, they are often used for sex. However they can also cause men to experience a loss of erection. Some people complain of headaches, a spinning sensation, or the feeling of “falling”. Never combine poppers with other stimulants like cocaine or Viagra, as this can cause a sudden loss of blood pressure and increases your risk of problems.

Because poppers can cause blood vessels to open up, it is easier for your body to get an infection, such as STDs or HIV. Studies have shown that poppers reduce the functioning of your immune system for several days after use. They pose an extra risk for people with suppressed immune systems, heart problems, low or high blood pressure, and those people who are prone to hemorrhaging and anemia. Poppers can also affect your judgment, so if you are planning on becoming intimate when you use them, plan to use safe-sex practices.

There are even several cases of people who used poppers who have experienced reduced vision and eyesight problems due to the overuse of them. They can also cause lung problems and rashes around the nose and mouth area.

Why do people use them?

Most of the time, poppers are used recreationally for sex and are used with the goal of heightened sexual pleasure. They can cause a head rush or euphoria, often associated with the increased heart rate. This is often felt as an increased sexual arousal or desire.

With many men frequenting bathhouses or nightclubs looking for a sexual partner, poppers can often be an exciting addition to a sexual experience. They relax your body and your anus muscles, so men who enjoy anal penetration can often feel more at ease with their partners. Many people find the experience of using poppers pleasurable; however this is not always the case. Overuse of poppers can cause erectile dysfunction and headaches and sometimes burns around your nose. Sometimes blurred vision can occur and its use is not recommended prior to driving.

Should you use them?

Compared to other recreational drugs like alcohol and tobacco, poppers can pose little harm to individuals who use them responsibly. If you are taking any medication that may have a negative effect when used with poppers, be smart! Don’t use them if you feel your body has had adverse reactions in the past and certainly don’t use them if you get headaches or have a suppressed immune system. This can cause other issues that could be compounded by using these chemicals for recreational purposes. HIV positive individuals can face extra health risks from the use of poppers.

Around 1990, many governments banned the use and sale of these products. Even today, they are marketed as deodorizers and it is illegal to market them for human consumption or sell them to minors. With all of this in mind, use them at your own discretion. If you are going to enjoy a night of wild passionate lovemaking with your partner, do so responsibly. Remember… Everything in moderation

WARNING: Never consume the liquid. If swallowed, call 911 or your local poison control center immediately. If you spill any of the liquid on your person, or get them in your eye, immediately wash thoroughly with water, or rinse out your eye. These bottles are flammable and should not be used near an open flame, such as candles or cigarettes. The exact contents of these bottles are not known and are not properly tested. Amyl nitrite is illegal to possess unless you have a doctor’s prescription.

The post Are Poppers A Good Time? appeared first on PIGSwap.

By now just about everyone knows that regular exercise can make you feel better, live longer and improve your appearance and self esteem. But did you know that regular kick-ass workouts can actually improve your sex life as well?

Everyone knows that sex is a wonderful recreational activity and that it is a hell of a lot more fun than power walking or step aerobics. One sexual encounter of 20-30 minutes can burn 100-300 calories, the equivalent of running three miles. While that is a longer time than most people engage in such activity, any exercise, whether inside or outside the bedroom will improve your sex life. Weight training using multi-joint exercises like the bench press, squat, bent over row and dead lifts have proven to increase testosterone production. Thirty to forty minutes of brisk cardio 2 – 4 times a week can strengthen your heart and lungs and build stamina. So rev up your engine, stud, get to the gym and your efforts will pay off in the sack!

The therapeutic value of sex is as important as its physical value. Sex is a great way to blow off steam and relieve tension . Sure, recreational sex is fun, but sex with someone you are committed to and care about promotes companionship and emotional satisfaction. Having someone to come home to at night is great security. When that special someone can also press your buttons in all the right ways in bed you’ve got the perfect combination for a lifetime mate.

Sex is great for your cardiovascular health. Maintaining good blood flow will promote sexual health and sexual activity promotes a well-flowing vascular system. So keep the juices flowing through those pipes and you’ll feel better and live longer.

Optimal sexual performance is directly related to the over-all health of your entire body. Michael Roizen in his book, “You: The Owner’s Manual” lists several important nutrients for your sexual health and well being. As with any medication, mineral or supplement, always check with your physician before you take any of these substances .

Selenium, a mineral found in foods like garlic, has been shown to increase prostate health and decrease the risk of related cancer. Don’t over do it – an optimal amount is 200 micrograms daily of supplementation.

Vitamins E and C have beneficial results for the sexual health of both men and women. Vitamin E is perhaps the best anti-oxidant and anti-aging agent known to man and it has been shown to decrease the risks of prostate and testicular cancers. Vitamin C, which is crucial to a healthy, resilient immune system, will increase both sperm production and motility.

Lycopene is another wonderful nutrient which aids in decreasing prostate cancer and reducing arterial aging. Lycopene is best consumed through simple spaghetti sauce and red wine. Who would have guessed that a romantic dinner at your favorite Italian restaurant can actually make you a better lover?

Omega-3 fats, folate and B vitamins have been shown to help increase fertility in both men and women – improving sperm motility in men. Omega-3 fatty acids are plentiful in fresh, cold water fish like salmon, halibut and tilapia. A good B complex vitamin is great for boosting metabolism and preventing the ravages of stress and hard living. This gem of a vitamin is also good at relieving hang overs!

Besides working out, doing your cardio and supplementation, here are a few more suggestions to help you remain a sexy, horny, healthy beast:

1. Men over 50 schedule a prostate exam. Those with a family history of prostate disease should have an exam starting at 40.
2. Cut back on your intake of coffee, black tea and colas – all of which contain methylxanthines – to help prevent cysts in the prostate and testicles.
3. Quit smoking! Cigarettes not only make your breath and skin stink, they also increase your real age by eight years. You’re already lying about your age, so you don’t need cigarettes to suck all the collagen out of your face making you look even older than you are.
4. Finally, get naked and look into the mirror. Appreciate your body. You don’t need to be a Colt model or Falcon Exclusive to take care of it. Look after that sexy bod and that boyfriend of yours will keep looking and loving it, too!

For more hot workout tips and sizzling summer exercise routines contact Tom Bonanti at trainertomb@aol.com. When in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida stop in and visit me at Pump’n Inc.Gym at 1271 NE 9^th Avenue 33304

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