Thursday, February 17, 2011

Upcoming Event: A Porn Perspective


Calgary Sexual Health Centre presents

A Porn Perspective

An evening with Pamela Paul
Journalist and Author of “PORNIFIED”

Join us for an engaging evening of discussion
with acclaimed journalist and author, Pamela Paul, as she presents
her views on the impact of pornography in the 21st century.

Often controversial, consistently thought-provoking,
Pamela Paul will challenge you to consider your own perspective on porn.



Tuesday, March 15, 2011
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
John Dutton Theatre
Central Library
616 MacLeod Trail S.E.


Admission is free.
Donations to support the work of CSHC are greatly appreciated.


For information, please contact Pam Krause, Executive Director of CSHC at
403-283-5580 ext 314 or pkrause@calgarysexualhealth.ca


About “PORNIFIED”
Using a mix of original qualitative and quantitative research, extensive interviews and vivid narrative, PORNIFIED tells the story of how men, women and children are affected by the ubiquity and mainstreaming of porn.  Visit www.pamelapaul.com/book/pornified/ for more info about this book and the author.


About Pamela Paul
Pamela Paul is an award-winning author and journalist who writes about social and cultural issues, demographic trends, consumer culture, psychology and health, and family. Paul’s writing is often controversial, consistently thought-provoking, and always driven by in-depth reporting.  Her second book, PORNIFIED, was named one of the best books of 2005 by The San Francisco Chronicle.

She is currently a columnist for The New York Times Styles section, where her Studied column, a critical look at recent social science research, runs bimonthly. She frequently writes for The New York Times Book Review and The New York Times Magazine.  Paul has been a guest on Oprah, Good Morning America, The Today Show, The Early Show, and Politically Incorrect, and has made regular appearances on CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC.

Friday, February 11, 2011

This Valentine’s weekend, nothing says I love you like NOT spreading an STI!

February 12th is Sexual and Reproductive Health Day in Canada.  This year, we are drawing attention to the increasing rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Statistics reported to the Public Health Agency of Canada indicate that rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis continue to be a public health concern in Canada and, while 15 to 24 year olds continue to bear the highest burden of these infections, there has been a significant increase in these STIs among middle-age adults (40-59 years) over the past decade.

Don’t give your lover an STI for this Valentine’s weekend!  Why not get tested together?

Our 4th episode in the “How To Be A Sexpert” podcast series covers the subject of STI Testing.  The podcast shows the experience of two of our Sexperts as they go for STI tests. 

Check it out at www.calgarysexualhealthpodcast.ca - or click on the image below.   It is also available on our YouTube Channel or on iTunes.



You can also visit our website at http://www.calgarysexualhealth.ca/sti_intro.html for more info and FAQs on STI prevention.

Have a safe and happy Valentine's weekend, everyone!

Friday, February 4, 2011

Quiffs and other quagmires

Our recently released podcast, Quiffs and other Quagmires, takes a look at the more awkward, and realistic experiences that occur during sex.  Sexperts take to the streets and talk to people about some of the less sexy moments during sex.

We are bombarded by messages of what sex should be like. 

The portrayal of sex on TV and in movies is not how it often plays out in real life.  Sex should be a fun, intimate experience, free of unrealistic expectations of yourself or your partner.

Sex for the first time, and every time after, should be consensual and you should always feel permission to stop when you don’t feel comfortable doing something. 

Communication is the key.  When you discuss sex with your partner, it will be sexy like on TV.

Check out our website for information and support when exploring sexual relationships.

New study reveals implications for those working with youth

Lack of consistent condom use places many young adults at high risk for STIs. The incidence of common bacterial and viral STIs are highest among this population. 


A recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, Vol 19(3) 2010 points to a factor contributing to these high STI rates: the discontinuation of condom use.


The qualitative study of young women found that discontinuation of condom use appears to be perceived as a sign of commitment in the relationship, and movement to a more formal relationship status.  However, assessment of STI risk should still be considered first.


For professionals working with youth, this is a clear reminder that this conversation is worth having with young people and it is an opportunity to encourage partners to go for STI testing before tossing out the condoms.


Read the study>>