The Power of Disclosure: Building Community & Support through HPV
In this week's episode we speak to Cristina, a Spanish woman whose HPV diagnosis changed her relationship to her body and empowered her to build community and speak openly in order to de-stigmatize STIs. Cristina found out she had HPV in 2018 after a period of enjoying and exploring her sex life as a single woman. During a routine gyno exam she was presented with an HPV diagnosis. She shares the highs and lows of the process of healing, and advocates for more communication and conversation about STIs. The problem with sex education is that we don't talk about sex. References in this episode include: Ali Wong - Baby Cobra Netflix Special (specific disclosure scene: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owUcrYcCYPc).
10 Maj 202329min
More Love, More Disclosure, More Protection
Julian is an polyamorous, ethical slut who lives in Berlin. During a regular STI check he learns he has chlamydia and gonorrhea in his throat. On the podcast we discuss his surprise around oral transmission, his experience disclosing to multiple partners, and how to make protection more safe and comfortable for everyone. We also touch on navigating some of the stigmas and uncomfortable emotions that creep up around receiving an STI diagnosis. Despite the initial setback of changing plans and managing health, Julian agrees that #sexhappens!
25 Apr 202322min
Self Worth vs. Genital Warts
Our guest in this episode talks a lot about the limiting beliefs that made dealing with HPV and genital warts so difficult. She felt ashamed of herself to the extent that she suffered in secrecy during the most difficult parts of uncertainty, diagnosis and treatment. She eventually disclosed to a friend and was met with grace and acceptance, and has great advice to share with those who may be struggling with a similar thing. It's one thing to have to manage an STI, but it's another to do it alone and maintain a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. Sometimes the worst STI we can give another person is shame.
18 Apr 202326min
Who's Cool Jane? What is #SEXHAPPENS?
Welcome to the new sex positive podcast #SEXHAPPENS! We're here to share stories and laughs about all things sex and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In the first episode you'll get to meet the co-founders of Cool Jane and #SEXHAPPENS. We will discuss the movement to destigmatize sex and STIs and have some fun while doing so! CEO & Co-Founder, Candida, shares her own personal story about herpes and how it led her to starting this company and this podcast. Find us online at www.cooljane.org
11 Apr 202323min
