Latex Sensitivity and Safe Sex!

Allergic reactions to latex condoms are rare, however, if you have a sensitivity to latex the use of latex condoms can leave you uncomfortable or very sick. There are several acceptable alternatives to latex condoms. Two of the more popular latex free condoms are made from Polyisoprene and Polyurethane. Also available but not recommended for general use are the lambskin condoms.

1. Polyisoprene condoms offer the latex sensitive person the ability to practice safe sex without discomfort.

• Polyisoprene is a synthetic material that is strong and therefore has a low breakage risk.
• Polyisoprene condoms are stretchy allowing for a snug fit that can heighten sensual pleasure.
• They are considered an effective method of preventing pregnancy and the transmission of STD's.

2. Polyurethane condoms are another choice for people who are sensitive to latex and they are available in both male and female condoms.

• Polyurethane condoms are thin and conduct heat better than most latex condoms.
• Odor free, polyurethane condoms can be used with any lubricant. (oil-based, water based or silicone-based.)
• Slippage and breakage can be a problem. Users must be careful to adhere to product guidleines.

3. Natural skin or lamb skin condoms are yet another choice for the latex sensitive individual. This natural animal membrane is the oldest material known to be used for condoms.

• While providing a "natural feel", lamb skin condoms only protect against pregnancy.
• Natural skin condoms have a unique odor.
• Natural skin and lamb skin condoms are generally not effective in the prevention of transmitting STDs or HIV/AIDS.

The good news! There are a several brands of latex free condoms available on the market today. All offer viable protection and comfort for individuals sensitive to latex, allowing them to make healthy choices for a happier future. Maxpro now offers fc Female condoms and Skyn male condoms for sale in their web store. Just one more way that Maxpro is helping people to make healthy decisions.

MAXPRO promotes pleasurable safe sex as an effective lifestyle choice to bring about a happier and healthier tomorrow. Always use a condom every time you have sex, if not a male condom then use a female condom to prevent unwanted pregnancy and the transmission of STD's and HIV/AIDS.

Try Maxpro Condoms the most comfortable condoms on the market: strength for dependability and safety, sensitivity for pleasure and satisfaction.

Buy Condoms Online: http://www.maxprocondom.com/
Articles & Resources:

Latex Versus Non-Latex Condoms
Latex Condoms and Latex Allergies

Happy Halloween - Condom Costumes

Happy Halloween!

We hope that you stay safe, have lots of fun, and practice / promote safe sex! Halloween brings out the most incredible people! Not just kids but adults as well, Halloween allows people the fantasy of being someone or something they are not! So relax, attend one of the many adult parties and enjoy a break from being you. Masquerade & costume parties are popular campus events.

Many organizations have these events to help raise money for their causes or in appreciation of their members. The Exotic Erotic Ball and the Black and White Ball are just two of many such events.

Halloween falls on a Saturday this year. You have no excuse not to dress up and go out. There are so many costumes to choose from these days. Here are a few examples from the 2009 Condom Fashion Show. Using these as examples we are sure that you could come up with a few of your own ideas! Condomella, the condom fairy, you could even become a green condom tree!

Condom Fashion Show 2009

A wonderful method of promoting safe sex this Halloween is fashionable condom wear. Imagine the really fun costumes you could create on your own. Many of them serving a double purpose; great costume and awesome education tool / reminder to practice safe sex. Just don't be giving out your condoms before the end of the night.

What ever your choice may be, have a Happy Halloween!

Try MAXPRO Original Condoms the most comfortable condom on the market: strength for dependability and safety, sensitivity for pleasure, satisfaction and a great fashion statement.

Buy Condoms Online: http://store.maxprocondom.com

Articles & Resources
Condom Fashion Show in Beijing
Condom dress one size fits all

Love won't protect you...

Love won’t protect you…

Just ask the women who dated Philippe Padieu, purchased cars for him and showered him with gifts. Only later to find out that he had intentionally infected each of them with HIV/AIDS. More often than not disease gets passed on unintentionally because the individual doesn’t know they are infected.

How different the results would have been if they had practiced safe sex, not given in to his lies and requests for sex without a condom.

Love is blind…

Love often prevents you from seeing what is very apparent to others and many times feelings of love allow you to miss little clues that would normally let you know that something is up. The state of being in love means that your emotional barriers are down. This is often not the right time to be making choices that could affect the rest of your life.

Make a commitment to yourself: Use a condom every time you have sex, make it part of your routine to keep your body healthy. Keep the commitment!

What you see may not be what you get, play safe. Knowledge is power! Educate yourself. Understand the practical and the emotional side to condom use.

• Practical side is that condoms are far cheaper than having a baby, getting an STD or HIV/AIDS.


• Emotionally a condom allows you to feel secure, protected against the prior events of your partner’s life experiences.

You ask, How to play safe?

Always use a condom. Use it correctly and keep up on the information regarding what is considered safe sex. Use a condom when you have oral sex, anal sex, or vaginal intercourse. Use lubricants that are condom approved to help make the condom more comfortable and prevent failure.

Educating yourself about condoms, safe sex and the risks involved when you do not practice safe sex will help you to feel more comfortable and less stressed about the discussion of condom use. You might even learn enough to make condom usage fun!

Your knowledge and self confidence will lead to making better choices that in the long run will effect and bring about positive change in your life and create a healthy today.

Taking personal responsibility for your choices ensures a brighter future.

Live safe and healthy - wear a condom!

Articles & Resources

How Women United to Stop HIV-Positive Man
Ten Reasons Why Condoms Are The Best Contraceptive
Why Condom Size Matters
How To Use A Condom

The writers of the Maxpro Blog want you to understand that they are in no way experts. They are simply presenting their take on subject thats are currently being discussed or presented in the News. We welcome others to write in and let us know what they think; both on the subject matter and the point of views.

STD's & HIV on the rise in young people...

STD's & HIV on the rise in young people...

It is amazing the number of states that are reporting increases in new HIV and STD cases. What's even more disturbing is the number of young people being infected. The under 20 group has increased by close to 25% and the 20-29 group has experienced an increase of 45% in some states. The vast majority of young people testing positive are in the poverty stricken, drug addicted and commercial sex sectors of the population.

Did somebody forget to share with these young people what it was like to live through the 80's and 90's, losing colleagues, friends, and family members? Sure people are living longer today, due to medications, but they are still dying far short of a normal life span. Life on medications is not a party, due to side effects from the medications and the disease; people are experiencing clinical depression, incontinence, and fatigue.
It seems that further education to the public is necessary. Everyone should be concerned about sexually transmitted diseases. While all of them are not fatal, many of them (STD's) can have devastating effects on your body and on your life. Some cause sterility while others can cause birth defects as well as mental illness. Most STD's can be treated with a few simple shots, but if left untreated, may cause you to have permanent issues.
Get tested at least once a year, more often if you are sexually active with more than one partner.
Young people coming from poverty stricken, drug addicted parents need to be educated in all aspects of sexual health; information on abstinence, birth control methods and the use of condoms for protection against pregnancy, HIV and STD's. Educating people by providing them with the complete facts about sex and the possible consequences of having sex too early, allows them to make informed decisions, take responsibility for and improve their lives.
Worst case scenario for providing complete comprehensive sex education? We continue to see infection rates and teenage pregnancy increase.
Best case scenario? Young people could put off having sex for a year or two or wait for marriage, which means a reduction in the number of teenage pregnancies, STD's and HIV infections.
This nation has tried abstinence only education, unfortunately many children will suffer the consequences. Now is the time to make changes and educate young people with a truthful and comprehensive sex education program.
Don't agree? Let me know what you think!

Nismo 370z is Like Sex on Wheels

I don't even want to besmirch the Nismo 370z with my words. I just want to say having been a 350z driver, that this picture make me miss the Z experience with all my heart.

350 hp 276 lb-ft. of torque, 3.7-liter V6
19 inch Rays forged alloy wheels
Nismo aerodynamic down-force body design
Competition-tuned suspension
Nismo signature red-stitched interior
SynchroRev Match manual transmission (so you, the amateur, can downshift like Takumi in Initial D without having to heel-toe like a pro)

Damn.

via: Nissan USA Nismo 370z

ps: Nissan, if you're reading this, I will send you free MAXPRO condoms in exchange for one of these 370z's... It doesn't even have to be the Nismo one!

Pell and Pope Say "Condoms? We don't need no stinkin' condoms"

Okay, so they probably didn't really say that although that would be kind of funny. This, however, is not a laughing matter folks. Cardinal George Pell, the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney, is backing up the Pope in saying that condoms are detrimental to the fight against AIDS. Pell was quoted on an Australian TV show saying condoms "encourage promiscuity." You know what "encourages promiscuity"? Raging hormones, hit singles by Nelly Furtado, and human nature. It's gonna happen, dude. People are going to have sex no matter what and if you're telling people radical and unfounded claims about prevention methods, you're just being irresponsible.

Check this... What's easier? Asking someone to use a condom or trying to get someone to delve into spirituality and find it in themselves to restrain themselves from acting on their feelings and emotions.

I'm not saying people ought to go out and totally indulge on their innermost desires. I'm just saying it's not something someone can control by eliminating all but one method of prevention.

If you're someone who uses condoms, keep doing what you do. Feel proud of yourself for doing your part in world-wide prevention.

via: The Sydney Morning Herald

Follow MAXPRO on Twitter!

Hey folks! Condoms and micro-blogging are all the rage. I'm serious. What goes better with micro-blogging than some MAXPRO condoms? We're all over twitter these days so come follow us! We'll be letting you know about the random stuff we do or think here at MAXPRO HQ and we might even throw out some discounts exclusive to our Twitter followers!

Click here to follow us!

Nike Air Yeezy

Ok so this really has nothing to do with condoms but it does have a lot to do with some cool sneakers. Nike is finally releasing the Air Yeezy, designed by Mr. Yeezy himself, Kanye West. Word according to Uncrate is they'll be running about $215 retail and probably a lot more on the black market known as ebay and craigslist. With that said, I probably won't be waiting in line for these. You can though if you'll be in LA or NY this Saturday. Good luck to you campers.

[Uncrate via Nike]

JanesGuide MAXPRO Review

JanesGuide was kind enough to check out our website and post a review!

"If you're the maker of a new kind of condom, you really have limited choices for how to make your product stand out. MAXPROcondoms.com has found two great ways. First, they've packaged their products in nifty little metal boxes designed to answer the need for style and discretion. Also, they've created a website full of information on incorporating their products into a lifetime of safer sex. Their blog discusses condoms and other birth control methods in the news, as well as other issues related to safer sex, family planning and STI prevention. Also included is a page on dealing with all the potential objections to using condoms and how best to respond. MAXPROcondoms.com's store carries cockrings, lubes, t-shirts and of course condoms. --aag"

JanesGuide.com is an awesome web portal for porn site reviews to help you decide whether or not that particular booby-trap is worth the money. They've also got reviews for adult products and stores. Check them out!

JanesGuide Maxpro Review: Source

So Good, Maxpro Makes Me Wanna...

We went back and forth about things that MAXPRO makes us wanna do. This is the result. Highlight: Larsen's seductive Maxpro dance.

Maxpro Freestyle Rap #1

Fresh rhymes right off the top of Larsen's head. We took the camera out behind the building where there's crazy nature going on. Decided to get a little artsy and shoot the video of our shadows doing our thang. There's me on the left laying down the dope beats while Larsen takes it where no condom brand has gone before.

Hot Girl. Putting On A Condom.

YOU. JUST. GOT. CONDOM ROLLED.
Yeah... We didn't quite have a hot model girl on hand to do the video so we made lemonade... and then we made this video. She is rather cute though... and those hands are rather sexy I guess.

YouTube MAXPRO Channel!

What's up my loyal MAXPRO people? I'm here to officially announce our MAXPRO YouTube Channel. You might call this a super casual blog press release. My good friend, Larsen Reyes, has joined us in creating some original content for all the interwebs to see. We plan to do some crazy stuff but mostly it'll be whatever ridiculousness we end up catching when the camera goes on. Watch out internet! MAXPRO and Larsen Reyes are about to hit the internets with the force of 1 million Tay Zondays and Slow Motion Laughing Babies.

Do you like contests? Well we love giving you free stuff. How about that? Each video we post up is an opportunity for you to hit us back with your untapped YouTube talent. Are you sexier? You think you can do better? Your dance style is sicker than ours? Reply to the video you think you can outdo and if we think you were a worthy adversary... we'll hit you back with free MAXPRO gear. How's that sound?

So it's official. The MAXPRO Video Channel is now up and running with a few starter videos! Check it out now. Subscribe. Get hooked. Win stuff. Buy MAXPRO condoms!

MAXPRO Video Channel: Click Here!

State Lawmakers to Receive Condoms

News Excerpt from: FOX 40 News
February 10, 2009

SACRAMENTO - Today, Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California will give condoms to lawmakers to honor National Condom Day. The presents are also the organization's way of calling attention to the importance of funding preventative health care statewide.

"With these Valentine's 'Condom Grams' we are saying to state lawmakers 'Don't break our hearts. Join together to maintain funding for vital preventive services'," said Kathy Kneer, PPAC President and CEO, "A healthy budget equals a healthy California."

The 'Condom Grams' include an assortment of condoms, information about the savings associated with family planning services, and a message asking the State Legislature to maintain funding for preventative services.

♥♥♥♥♥

With the recent pass on funding for condoms in the stimulus, it looks like Planned Parenthood has taken the situation further into their own hands and moved onto the lawmakers! Legislatures might not receive the exact "Condy gram" in the picture, but in any case, hopefully these actions will show how important contraception is beneficial to the state's, as well as nation's, health.

In addition, hopefully it will show how public family planning and preventative services are important to the economy -- as they have helped significantly reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and abortions that occur.

Hopefully the package of "goodies" will make an impact on the legislatures!

Helpful Resources & Links:
- Provision To Increase Access To Medicaid Family Planning Services Cut From Stimulus Package (MAXPRO Blog)
- National Condom Awareness Month? Week? Day? (MAXPRO Blog)
- Condom Week (The Cauldron)
- Alternative uses in honor of national condom month (The Examiner)
- Hey Valentine, how about a condom? (The Examiner)
- Roses are red, condoms are clear (Daily Princetonian)
- Feature: Being Prepared (MAXPRO Blog)
- Ten Reasons Why Condoms Are The Best Contraceptive (MAXPRO Blog)

MAXPRO Valentine's Day Specials

Make Valentine's Day night a special and safe night!

Valentine's Day still rich in romance, sex

News Excerpt from: USA Today
By Nanci Hellmich
February 10, 2009

The sluggish economy might make sweethearts a little stingier when buying Valentine's Day gifts, but it hasn't slowed down their sex lives.

About 50% of people with partners say they'll spend less money on Valentine's Day, but 78% say the economy hasn't affected the amount of time they have for sex or the frequency this past year, a national Consumer Reports poll shows.

Q&A: What kills sex in a marriage?

"People are certainly cutting back on expenditures, and that may mean less lavish dinners out and more stay-at-home dates that lead to a romantic evening," says Orly Avitzur, a neurologist and medical adviser for the magazine. "Sex can provide pleasure and boost mood while serving needs for intimacy and providing a calming effect."

In January, the magazine's National Research Center surveyed about 600 adults who reported being sexually active in 2008. The findings, reported on www.consumerreportshealth.org:

• 81% avoided or delayed having sex this past year. The most common reasons they gave: too tired, weren't feeling well, weren't in the mood.

• 45% said they had to plan a time for sex with their partner, and 7% said they used a printed or electronic calendar, PDA or smart phone to keep track.

• 20% said they had missed work to keep a planned time for sex; 21% said they had missed an outing with friends, and 15% said they had skipped an important event or appointment.

• 60% of men said they thought about sex at least once a day, compared with 19% of women.

• 66% of men and 58% of women said they were satisfied with their sex lives.

♥♥♥♥♥
While jobs are down and money continually becomes an issue, staying home is becoming more of an option.. yet this necessarily isn't a bad thing!

Staying home and having private evenings with your partner, rather than going out, will not only save you some extra cash in the bank, but can most likely lead to a MAXPRO night.. and if you can somehow ease in creativity and romance, you can probably score extra points too!

While going out occasionally can be fun, it could also be tiring. Those "lavish dinners" can tire a person out if you have too much to eat. Even the crowds of people can get frustrating.. and who knows? With the flu going around, do you really want to be around that?

At least at home you can control the situation. Instead of having to go through the hassle of getting ready, you and your partner can dress casually or comfortably.. or not at all? Hmm? You can even control how much you eat! Making dinner and preparing just enough portions for the two of you will allow you to "make room for dessert later." Finally, there's no reason to say "I'm tired" or "I'm not feeling well" because you haven't really done anything! ..except stay home, live comfortably, and avoid everything on the outside world.

So with all that said, have fun at home! Forget the economy! Forget that you've been rejected by hundreds of employers! You can't get rejected now! ♥

With the slumping economy, it's good to know that other things are recession proof.


If you're planning on having a MAXPRO night, check out our store for all your MAXPRO needs:
MAXPRO Condoms
MAXPRO Store


Helpful Resources:
- Feature: Sex Around the House (MAXPRO Blog)
- Feature: Foods to Get in the Mood (MAXPRO Blog)

No Glove, No Love. No Test, No Sex

News Excerpt from: LA Singles Examiner
February 5, 12:03 AM
by Niki Payne

With Valentine's Day approaching, you can bet that plenty of couples (or non-couples, for that matter) will probably be knocking boots a lot this month.

Maybe it's love, maybe it's lust. Or maybe it's loneliness and self-esteem issues that get your legs to open wider than the Grand Canyon. Whatever the case, it's important to note that February happens to be National Condom Month. Kind of ironic, don't ya think?

What's even more ironic is that I recently overheard a friend tell another friend that a girl he was dating (for about a week or so) asked him to get checked out before she would agree to sleep with him.

Now, my mom always preached to me to do the same, but I'd always laugh at her thinking, "What person my age would actually do that?" So when I heard the topic come up, of course my ears perked up naturally.

How does someone typically respond to a request like that? After all, it's not an unreasonable request considering how promiscuous people can be these days. But what it you're in the heat of the moment and you really, really, really want to put it inside her or really, really, really want him to put it inside you already?

Most people "know" the risks and yet do it anyway figuring it's just a "one-time exception." Only it's not, and once is one time too many if you're not in a committed relationship.

Among some of the most common sexually transmitted infections ("disease" seems to imply a slow death) are chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphillis. Of course, when someone does contract one of these sexually transmitted bacterial infections, no one really talks about it. That's because STD's are a totally taboo topic. Don't believe me? Play a game of "Ten Fingers" with a group of friends and see how much slower fingers go down when you say, "Never have I ever has an STD."

People keep that ish on the DL as well as their sexual history, probably because they've never been checked out or are afraid to get checked out.

I was in complete awe when I discovered that some of the people I know have never taken an STD test before. Are you kidding me? Maybe it's because I'm a woman and have grown accustomed to getting tested every year along with my annual pap smear, but I think it's so incredibly important to get yourself tested frequently if you are sexually active.

I recommend getting checked out every 3-6 months because that's about how long it takes sometimes for the infection or disease to manifest. And if you do find yourself in the unsettling scenario of having contracted an STD from one of your partners (and you care enough to inform them), know that you have the option of letting him or her know via an e-card through an Internet Notification Service created specifically to notify past partners of possible infections.

We grow up learning that abstinence is the key to practicing safe sex. F that ish! We all know that none of us are going to start abstaining from sex any time soon. So if you really want to practice safe sex, ask your partner to get checked out and always use a condom.

The way I see it, if a girl doesn't hear back from a guy after making such a request, you know he was only interested in an easy lay and wasn't planning on sticking around long. On the other hand, if he does agree, he might actually have plans to keep you around a little. Either that, or he hasn't been laid in a really long time.

♥♥♥♥♥

There really shouldn't be a fear in getting tested. If it's about embarrassment, why be embarrassed? Lots of people get tested! ..that's why the wait at the Planned Parenthood clinic is always so long! ..or at least I heard.

Maybe it's the fear of getting bad news? Even if "bad news" were the case, it's better to find out sooner than allowing it worsen. Ignoring it won't only make it worse, but you have the chance of "spreading the bad news" to other people! Boooo.. don't be that person!

In addition, not all birth control methods will protect you from the risk of STDs. If used properly, condoms will help in the preventing of contracting STDs. If you read the fine print, the pill can't do any of that. :(

I also looked into the whole National Condom Month. After Googling it, I found that there are different variations on the celebration. There's the aforementioned (February), along with National Condom Week (February 14-21), and National Condom Day (celebrated on February 14/Valentine's Day). Whatever it is, celebrate it throughout the year!

Have fun & be safe ♥


For fine condom products for all your National Condom Month needs, please visit our website & store:
MAXPRO Condoms
MAXPRO Store


Helpful Resources:
- Feature: Being Prepared (MAXPRO Blog)
- Ten Reasons Why Condoms Are The Best Contraceptive (MAXPRO Blog)

Condom Display At Mall Raises Eyebrows

Update:
News Excerpt from: WWJ Newsradio 950
Posted: Thursday, 05 February 2009 8:54AM

AIDS Group Claims Mall Banned Condom Display

Troy (WWJ) -- The Michigan AIDS Coalition said Thursday that an HIV/AIDS Awareness display has been pulled from a Somerset Collection storefront in Troy.

The display, at Armani Exchange, featured hundreds of red condoms forming a giant heart as part of the National AIDS Fund's "Give Love, Get Love" effort ahead of Valentine's Day.

The group said more than 70 malls nationwide have allowed a similar display--and Somerset was the only one that banned it.

WWJ has a call in to Somerset spokesman Thursday morning for comment.




Original Post: February 4, 2009

News Excerpt from: KSBW-TV
January 31, 2009

With Valentine’s Day approaching, you wouldn’t think a heart-shaped window display would cause much controversy.

But this one is made out of red condoms.

It’s right on the front window of the Armani Exchange store at Arden Fair Mall in Sacramento, California.

The display reads, “give love, get love…and practice safe love.“

It’s part of a promotional campaign for the National AIDS Fund.

A mall spokesperson says they’ve received a few calls from concerned shoppers with questions. The mall has no comment about the display because it’s in a space leased by the store.

♥♥♥♥♥

Another Valentine's Day related post! ..expect a lot of them in the next few days! ♥

I just thought this article was interesting. There's nothing really harmful in promoting safe sex and I think A|X found a creative, innovating, and cute way to promote it!

What do you think?


Helpful Resources:
- Feature: Being Prepared (MAXPRO Blog)
- Ten Reasons Why Condoms Are The Best Contraceptive (MAXPRO Blog)

Chocolatier Creates Candy to Stimulate Male Sex Drive

News Excerpt from: FOXNews.com
Wednesday, February 04, 2009

Just in time for Valentine's Day a New Zealand chocolatier says she created a new candy that acts as a male aphrodisiac, the Australian Associated Press reported.

Former food scientist and owner of Mamor Chocolates, Hanna Frederick, has made headlines for her crazy candy concoctions including beer-flavored and deer antler chocolate.

Now, the Auckland, Australia businesswoman is hoping to capitalize on Valentine's Day with her Tongkat Ali-infused chocolates.

Tongkat Ali is an herb that comes from a tree found in Southeast Asia. It is believed to stimulate testosterone production in men, giving a boost to the sex drive. It has been nicknamed the "Asian Viagra," but, like most herbal remedies, there are very few scientific studies backing its benefits.

The chocolates, which can be ordered online, deliver a "small but noticeable" aphrodisiac effect, Frederick claims.

♥♥♥♥♥

Just another reminder of what's to come in the next week! Valentine's Day! ♥

A chocolatier who seems to know the way to a man's heart -- concocting morsels like whiskey and beer-flavored chocolates -- has made a chocolate to act as a male aphrodisiac. While chocolate has already been known to act as an aphrodisiac by itself, Hanna Frederick has created a candy using the finest Belgian chocolate with a high cocoa mass and pure flavors.. with an extra ingredient of course!

Eurycoma Longifolia Jack (also known as Tongkat Ali) is a South Asian herb that "has been used by men for centuries to increase sexual desire, libido, and enhance overall performance. It has been traditionally taken for energy, strenuous labor and athletics."¹

As if chocolate couldn't get any better! ..it does :)


Helpful Resources & References:
¹ Mamor ~ The Spirit of Passion
- Kiwi men get aphrodisiac chocolates for Valentine's Day (www.news.com.au)
- Feature: Foods to Get in the Mood (MAXPRO blog)

Pubs Offer Condoms Over Valentine's Day

News Excerpt from: Illawarra Mercury
BY ANGELA THOMPSON
2/02/2009 3:52:00 PM

Beer, wine, spirits, and condoms.

Wollongong watering holes will stock more in their bars this month as part of a campaign to promote safe Valentine's Day loving.

Pub-goers at four pubs will receive free condoms with their pints in the lead-up to the day, very deliberately included in the sexual health campaign, The Big Gamble.

The campaign targets members of the heterosexual population who have recently changed partners and comes after a dramatic spike in chlamydia notifications in the region.

"When people start a new relationship they might not know the sexual background of the person they're having a relationship with and lots of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have no symptoms," Healthy Cities Illawarra sexual health promotion officer Naomi Cox said.

"We thought Valentine's Day was an appropriate time to get that message out there and get people thinking about their sexual health.

"Along with the presents and love that comes with Valentine's Day, we also encourage people to use condoms and be aware of sexually transmitted infections."

Chlamydia notifications to South Eastern Sydney Illawarra Area Health Service tripled between 2000 and 2006, with a particularly large spike recorded between 2004 and 2005.

Condom packs, together with coasters and posters bearing the safe sex message, will be distributed to the University of Wollongong Unibar, the Beach Bar, North Gong Hotel and the Harp Hotel.

Healthy Cities recommends people beginning a new relationship have a sexual health check-up, particularly if they don't plan to use condoms. Those who recently ended a relationship, had unsafe sex or whose partner had an STI should also have a check-up.

♥♥♥♥♥

Valentine's Day isn't just a commercial day celebrated around little cards and heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, but it's a day to celebrate love! ..and what's another way to show love by "making" it? ♥

Although Valentine's Day is a special day, it shouldn't be a day to forget about safe sex! ..and despite the spike in chlamydia outbreaks in the South Eastern Sydney Illawarra Area, it's still a good idea to promote safe sex everywhere; especially on a day where copious amounts of people will be "doing it."

I understand that it might not be appropriate to just give patrons condoms in some locations, but having them readily available may be convenient and serve as a reminder to people who might have just "forgotten." Creatively distributing them (i.e. packaged discreetly, gift boxes) could even be an option for inconspicuously nudging safe sex.

Overall, it can't hurt to be safe.. literally :)

If you want to be prepared beforehand, MAXPRO condoms can provide for your Valentine's Day needs! Visit our store at http://store.maxprocondoms.com


Helpful Resources:
- Feature: Being Prepared (MAXPRO Blog)
- Ten Reasons Why Condoms Are The Best Contraceptive (MAXPRO Blog)

Provision To Increase Access To Medicaid Family Planning Services Cut From Stimulus Package

News Excerpt from: Medical News Today
January 29, 2009

Under pressure from Republicans, President Obama and House Democrats on Tuesday agreed to drop a provision of the proposed economic stimulus package that would have given states the option to expand Medicaid coverage of family planning services, the Washington Post reports (Murray/Kane, Washington Post, 1/28). Wall Street Journal's "Washington Wire" reports that the provision would have allowed states to extend Medicaid family planning coverage to women with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid without obtaining special permission from HHS (Meckler, "Washington Wire," Wall Street Journal, 1/27). Republicans who opposed the provision argued that it had "nothing to do with economic stimulus," the New York Times reports. According to the Times, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the Medicaid provision would have saved the government $200 million over five years by decreasing costs related to pregnancies and post-natal care covered by Medicaid (Calmes/Hulse, New York Times, 1/28).

The Post reports that Obama persuaded House Democrats to remove the provision "[a]s a show of good faith" before an expected House vote on Wednesday. During a meeting with House Republican leaders on Tuesday, Obama reassured Republicans that their concerns over the bill were being considered during the final stage of drafting (Washington Post, 1/28). A Democratic aide said, "It obviously has sort of generated this firestorm of criticism. It ended up being a distraction, and it will be removed" ("Washington Wire," Wall Street Journal, 1/27). The Senate will consider a similar, separate bill next week, according to the Post (Washington Post, 1/28).

Mary Jane Gallagher, president of the National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, said, "Family planners are devastated that President Obama and Congress have decided to take funding for critical family planning services out of the stimulus." She added, "Their willingness to abandon the millions of families across the country who are in need is devastating." The Planned Parenthood Federation of America said the provision was a "victim of misleading attacks and partisan politics" ("Washington Wire," Wall Street Journal, 1/27). [...]

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After having read a few articles about the stimulus package and contraceptives, I was wondering why so much money would be invested in contraceptives. I understood that it would have benefits to health, but how would it contribute to improving the nation's debt? Then I stumbled across an article...

The article at RH Reality Check, "Boehner Gets It Wrong on Contraceptives, Stimulus", helped me to understand that it was much more than just a health concern. The article stated that:

"[...] publicly funded family planning services significantly reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and abortions that occur. Each year, the contraceptive services provided just at publicly funded clinics help women avoid 1.4 million unintended pregnancies, which would result in 640,000 unintended births and 600,000 abortions. Without these services, the number of abortion performed each year in the United States would be 49% higher than it currently is."

The article also stated that avoiding unwanted pregnancies would have saved the government over $200 million over five years. Unfortunately, as the main article illustrates, Obama dumped on the bid for family planning. Could this be a loss of hope for millions of families?

Luckily, there will be a similar and separate Bill to be considered by The Senate next week. If approved, hopefully this will have enough (or more) provisions to cover the cut in the stimulus package.


Helpful Resources and References:
- Ask President Obama to Stand Up for Family Planning (RH Reality Check)
- Boehner Gets it Wrong on Contraceptives, Stimulus (RH Reality Check)
- Limbaugh Attacks Pelosi Over Contraceptive Stimulus (MAXPRO Blog)

Limbaugh Attacks Pelosi Over Contraceptive Stimulus

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been taking a lot of heat for including money in the $825 billion stimulus bill for state family-planning programs, including Medicaid-funded contraceptives. The bill contains $87 billion in emergency Medicaid funding to help states.

Here's what Pelosi recently told ABC News about why the money was originally included: Well, the family-planning services reduced costs, it reduced costs. The states are in terrible fiscal budget crisis now, and -- and part of it, what we do for children's health, education and some of those elements that are to help the states meet their financial needs. One of those -- one of the initiatives you mentioned, the contraception, is -- will reduce cost to the state, and to the federal government … We have to deal with the consequences of the downturn in our economy.

Democratic leaders in the House have dropped federal funding for new contraceptive services and ongoing programs to stop sexually transmitted diseases from the $825 billion economic stimulus bill due to hit the floor Tuesday.

The decision came after President Obama called Democratic leaders to tell them that the $200 million set-aside does not comport with the objectives of the job creation package.

I agree if this bill is only to create new jobs then NO it should not be in their but if they are looking for ways to save money then by all means something needs to be invested into prevention and planning look at these numbers.


In 2007 the US spent $980 million on abortion and $14.7 Billion on STD Treatment. They could of spent Just $3 Billion and educated every man women and child and provided them with 180 condoms per year. That is why this package should be included to save money by investing a little on prevention. 20 condoms and education cost about $1.00 treating HIV cost the US tax payers around $15,000 per month per person and STD around $315 per person multiply that by the 19 million new STD cases every year and you can see why condoms and prevention education is so important. What do you think?

Ten Reasons Why Condoms Are The Best Contraceptive

News Excerpt from: Finding the Best Cure

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

There are numerous contraceptive methods that you and your partner can use. Popular approaches include everything from pills to injections to implants. Perhaps the best known contraception method is the use of condoms. When used correctly all of these techniques can be very effective methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy.

But the well known fact is that using condoms is considered by most experts to be the easiest, least expensive, and least intrusive method of contraception. The use of condoms can have important health and safety benefits as well.

Here are 10 reasons to use condoms rather than alternative contraceptive methods:

1. Condoms make sex less messy. They are neat and tidy.

2. Condoms are widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets, drug stores, shopping malls and convenience centers. They can also be ordered online from many well established websites.

3. Condoms are a virtual necessity for busy people in modern society because they are ready to go at any time.

4. Condoms are easy to use. The intervention of a health care professional, or the use of drugs is not required.

5. When used properly condoms are a highly reliable method of birth control. On average they are up to 98% effective.

6. There is no need to “take” a pill that has a dramatic effect on your entire body and alters natural processes. Condoms are only required when you are having sex.

7. Condoms can actually enhance the sexual experience because they are available in many sizes, shapes, textures, and flavors.

8. There are no medical side effects as with virtually all other birth control methods.

9. Condoms are the most effective way to protect women from infections and the development of cancer of the cervix.

10. Condoms are the only contraceptive that helps to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

The benefits of condoms are so important and so compelling that many people who have tried alternatives are returning to condoms. They have decided the unwelcome side-effects of other methods that rely on drugs or intrusive implants are not acceptable. An increasing number of people are simply unwilling to tamper with the natural cycles of their body.

Perhaps even more important, experts around the world have come to realize that condoms are the only way to create a significant barrier to infection and sexually transmitted diseases. As a result, the distribution and use of condoms has become one of the most important weapons in the battle against the spread of HIV aids and other sexually transmitted diseases [...]

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As exhibited in the article, there are many reasons to consider (or reconsider) condoms — and I'm sure there are more reasons than just the 10 presented!

With sex becoming more and more prominent in today's society, it's definitely important to make sure you, as well as your partner, are safe when engaging in "intimate moments." Risks of STD's, HIV, and HPV are heightened when unprotected sex is practiced. As stated by the American Cancer Society (ACS), "Condoms (rubbers) may protect against HPV when they are used correctly, and it is important to use them because they do protect against AIDS and other sexual diseases."^[1]

In addition, when used correctly, condoms are 98% effective in protecting you from pregnancy. While the common Birth Control Pill (BCP) can be as effective, it's also a pill you have to remember to take every day. Granted you often forget to take the pill, it lessens the effectiveness. BCP can also alter a woman's natural cycle, and while there might be advantages to this, there are definitely some disadvantages. First of all, it doesn't protect you from sexually transmitted infections so it is still advised to use a condom in addition to BCP. Per Planned Parenthood, other disadvantages include: breast tenderness, change in sexual desire, nausea, vomiting, etc.^[2]

Okay, let's re-evaluate the Pill.. So it has the possible chance to change sexual desire? ..and it doesn't protect from STIs? This isn't some kind of ploy to sway you away from BCP, but if you haven't really given much thought to your safe sex method, these may be reasons to re-access what is important to you and your partner, as well as your body.

Another reason to consider condoms is their shelf life! "When stored in a cool, dry place condoms without spermicide are generally good for around five years from the time they are manufactured."^[3] So if sex is an occasional thing for you (i.e., monthly, semi-annually, etc), at least you can have some condoms on reserve and feel safe knowing that you can be protected. Again, just be sure to check the expiration date after you blow off the dust!

If the embarrassment of having to buy condoms is something that's swaying you away from this form of protection, then there is no real reason to fear any longer! As stated in the article, with modern technology, you can buy condoms online in the privacy of your own home. MAXPRO condoms has just that solution: MAXPRO Store

With all that said, don't you think it's time to buy some condoms? :)

For fine condom products, please visit our website & store:
MAXPRO Condoms
MAXPRO Store


Helpful Resources & References:
¹ What Cause Cancer of the Cervix (American Cancer Society)
² Planned Parenthood: Birth Control Pill (Planned Parenthood)
³ Condom Expiration Dates (Go Ask Alice!)
- Using A Condom Properly (guardian.co.uk)
- Birth Control A Friendly But Risky Alternative to Condoms (TigerWeekly)
- Feature: Being Prepared (MAXPRO Blog)
- Embarassing Moments Buying Condoms (MAXPRO Blog)

Some Women Need Vibrators to Get Off. Get Over It, Men.

News Excerpt from: Village Voice

By Dan Savage
Tuesday, January 20th 2009 at 3:06pm

Dear Dan:

I love the wife I married two years ago, but she absolutely can't come unless she uses a vibrator on herself. She's asked me to let her use it during sex or for me to use it on her, but I've refused. It's bad enough knowing I can't compete with that thing without having to look at it.

Let's Insert My Prick

Yeah, yeah, LIMP, you can't compete. Like a lot of other men, you've fallen in love with a woman who needs intense, focused stimulation in order to come, the kind of sensation that hands, fingers, tongues, and cocks just can't provide—a woman who requires a vibrator. Now let's take a little time to grieve, shall we?

Time's up.

Now, stop being such a douchebag about this, LIMP, and go ask the wife to show you just how to hold the vibrator and just where to apply pressure so that you—YOU!—can start giving her orgasms during sex. See the vibrator as a tool, moron, not a threat. Because if being with you means going without orgasms during sex for the rest of her life—all because she was foolish enough to marry an insecure bag of slop who refuses to do what needs to be done to get her off—then your wife just might decide to be with someone else.

And now an important message for all straight guys everywhere: Some women need vibrators to get off. Why? Well, perhaps it has something to do with the fact that most of a woman's clitoral tissues are inside her body; the exposed part of her clitoris is just the tip, comparable to the head of your penis. Now imagine if the shaft of your penis was buried inside your body, guys. You might need the help of a vibrator to get off then, too; you might need a tool that could stimulate your shaft through layers of skin and muscle and fat. We've been over and over this since the early 1990s, fellas, and there's no excuse anymore for freaking out about your wife/girlfriend/mom needing a vibrator, OK? [...]

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So, guys.. just reiterating, there's no reason to be intimidated by the *gasp* VIBRATOR. It's the 2000's!! ..or 00's? Hmm.. Well, whichever it is, don't you think women deserve to release their sexual tension too? Why should you be the only one to get all the pleasure? Chh!

As Dan Savage explained, the female anatomy is waaaay more complicated than it looks (Obviously because God spent more time on us) ..aaaaand just when you thought we couldn't get more complex, all women are unique and usually require different kinds of stimulation. While penetration, alone, might be fine for one woman, another might need "an extra something" in addition to what you're already equipped with.

Intimidation aside, try to use this "problem" as an advantage... or even an opportunity to experiment and have fun with your partner. It can't always be about you!

You can start off by showing her chivalry isn't dead by catering to her needs. It's likely that some women might have some extreme needs that might scare the bejeezus out of you, but try to have an open mind. Try talking to your partner & go over what she likes, what you like, and what both of you can do to make it all the more pleasurable. Do some research on your own (or together) and surprise her! Truth: Girls like surprises (However, they do have to be good) Also, putting in that extra effort shows that you're sensitive to what your partner wants.. and with her knowing that you're going the extra mile, you can earn extra brownie points!

So instead of looking at the vibrator as the enemy, think of it as a part of yourself (especially with vibrating rings). You have the opportunity to control & decide how much intensity and pleasure you want to give your partner. Again, just have fun with it! You, yourself, might even experience a little more pleasure than you would have expected!

If you want to take things slow and not go to super extreme measures, the MAXPRO 3 + 1 pack is a great starter! It has everything in one convenient package (3 condoms & 1 vibrating O-ring) — equating to pleasurable, safe sex! You can purchase it at select MAXPRO retailers.

For more fine MAXPRO products, like the MAXPRO Extreme Pleasure Packs (1 condom & 1 vibrating O-ring), visit our store at MAXPRO store


Helpful Resources:
- Feature: Why She Fakes It (MAXPRO Blog)
- Feature: Sex Around the House (MAXPRO Blog)

To Teach, or Not to Teach: That is the Question

One side says that teaching abstinence is the only way, the other says we need to teach our youth about safe sex... but which way is the correct way??? I do know that a report I read this morning cannot be ignored.

TEENAGERS in the United States who pledge to remain virgins until marriage are just as likely to have premarital sex as those who do not promise abstinence and significantly less likely to use condoms and other forms of birth control, a study published yesterday says.

The new analysis of data from a large US survey found that more than half of youths became sexually active before marriage regardless of whether they had taken a "virginity pledge", but that the percentage who took precautions against pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases was 10 points lower for pledgers than for non-pledgers.

"Taking a pledge doesn't seem to make any difference at all in any sexual behaviour," said Janet Rosenbaum of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, whose report appears in the journal Pediatrics. "But it does seem to make a difference in condom use and other forms of birth control that is quite striking."

Condom use was about 10 percentage points lower for people who broke the pledge. They were six points less likely to use any contraception.

The study is the latest in a series raising questions about programs that focus on encouraging abstinence until marriage. The new analysis goes further by focusing on teens who had similar values about sex and other issues before they took a virginity pledge.

The findings come as Congress and the incoming Obama administration are about to reconsider the provision of more than $US176 million ($258 million) in annual funding for abstinence-based programs.

The Sydney Morning Herald

I'll be honest in saying that I was raised a catholic - 12 years of private/catholic school should be enough to prove that. I was never really taught anything about "safe sex" until I reached the college ranks and oftentimes wonder why.

Some might think my opinion is biased because I work for a latex company which manufactures condoms, but the truth of the matter is this job really opened my eyes to the flaws in the educational system (in regards to this subject).

Everyday we are forced to make important decision that can have a huge impact on our lives. People always say "would life have been different if I had done this instead of that"... the whole I should have gone left instead of right scenario. The issue of teens and sex is no different - if we don't teach them the rights and wrongs then how will they ever be able to make the proper decisions.

I'm not saying which way is right and which way is wrong. I truly believe that abstinence is the best way for the younger generation, but I also know that teenagers will be teenagers and their hormones or peer pressure oftentimes get the best of them. I feel it is ignorant to not take notice of these facts and at least give our kids the education to make intelligent decisions. I was in college when I got my first taste of this knowledge - long after my first, second... girlfriend.

My parents were great at giving me "the talk" and they didn't hold anything back when it came to the subject. All I wish is that the school systems would also take some initiative and give kids/teens/young adults the proper knowledge to fight this battle.

To Teach, or Not to Teach... I say we teach!

Embarassing moments when buying condoms

I'm pretty sure we've all had a moment in our lives when we felt completely embarrassed buying condoms. For me it was a beautiful September day when I was 16 - a Senior from my high school had taken a liking to my younger, Sophomore blood and I had a feeling that I was going to do the "home run trot" around the bases later in the evening. I figured I might as well be prepared for the moment so I ran down to the local convenience store to grab some rubbers.

Having no idea what the proper procedures were when buying condoms I strolled around that store for what seemed like hours (I'm sure the owner thought I was scoping the place out to rob him or something). Eventually I grabbed a 3pack of condoms along with a Snickers Bar (like that was going to hide it or something) and went up to the counter. I could have sworn the whole place was vacant when I was in there but right as I get up to the counter, yup, so does my neighbor. I'm pretty sure my Snickers Bar trick didn't work because the look on his face told the whole story.

Looking back on that now I kind of laugh because I can't believe I was so embarrassed. It seems that society has made condoms such a taboo subject that even I, when I was younger, felt embarrassed in my decision to have SAFE SEX. I'm not saying my decision to have sex was the right or wrong one (that's a whole different discussion for a whole different time) but at least I was being responsible and protecting myself.

What was your embarrassing moment???

Condom Commercial

Going to the land of condoms

Its that time of the year again when I travel to Malaysia



For the past 5 years I have gone abroad to the land of condoms to meet with some of the top condom guys from around the world and we talk about matters that effect our industry.



This will be the first time I will be able to document the trip and it always begins with the check in and then the long wait. So I sit out front for about 1 hour people watching one of my favorite things to do. Its funny how I try to imagine what that guys life might me like by how they say good bye to their loved ones for example a middle aged man just got out of the car grabed his bags and waived his wife away I think that's common for people who have been married for a long time and then this other guy same age range made out with his girl untill the airport police broke them up and so to me they are still in their first 3 years or she is the girl on the side. I could write about these people until my thumbs fall off so I will tell you more when I get to the other side.



Check back soon

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

New Products Sneak Peek!

We're all excited here at the MAXPRO offices because we just got the
shipment of our new product line in the other day! Just 'cause I'm
anxious here's a sneak peek of what we're gonna be putting in stores
pretty soon! Oh and sorry about the quality. I'm sending this from my
iPhone!

Feature: Being Prepared

Running to the store to pick up an item you need is usually a minor inconvenience, right? Now imagine you and your sweetie just started getting hot and heavy, the kisses are passionate, your hands are caressing each others bodies and as the clothes begin to come off you wonder if either of you have a condom. You check your drawer and just what you were afraid of, there is nothing but an empty tin. We have all been there, first you run to the room-mates sock drawer frantically searching for a condom (don’t forget to check the expiration date!) and when that plan fails you search your mind for fast options and actually consider trying to dig out that condom lollipop you got at the last bachelor party in Vegas. We are too smart to even consider going to battle without being armed so you make the “I’ll be right back” announcement as you walk out the door praying your partner will not be asleep when you return. This trip to the store is going to be a hard one, no pun intended.

A standard Maxpro 12 condom tin can cover a first round of preparation. I like to keep condoms in my purse so they are with me at all times. The purse designers anticipated the need for such a compartment and conveniently provides a small inside zipper pocket that can accommodate at least 2 condoms. Ladies take advantage of it! Aside from my purse I have condoms strategically placed around my house.

I always keep 2 at the very back of my second drawer in the bathroom just in case a house-quest decides to join me mid-shower. And of course there is the good ol’ sock drawer where 98% of us keep our condoms and other “goodies”. Drawers in any room can generally be a good place to store condoms, it provides a cool dark place and keeps them out of sight. There are even 2 in my desk drawer at the office and 2 in my gym bag, just in case the opportunity arises. If you noticed I always keep them in quantities of two it is because for me the meal is not over until I’ve had appetizers and a second helping of the main course, but for some of you it will just come in handy for the next time.

MAXPRO website 3.0

Over here at MAXPRO headquarters, we've been working hard(no pun intended) on a new version of our website. The new one will have some regularly updated features like a sex column, interviews and bios of local and upcoming musicians, artists, designers, and anything else that sounds fun to us. Check out the test site here. The site is still a work in progress so some of the functionality still isn't there. Tell us what you think in this post's comments!

Posted by: Mike

AIDS Life Cycle & MAXPRO Volunteers

(Originally posted June 3rd, 2008)

The MAXPRO Volunteers were out in force last sunday morning! Ten of us woke up at 5:30 to get together and cheer on the Riders of the AIDS Life Cycle Ride. Over 3,000 bicycle riders making the heroic effort to ride over 575 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles in seven days to raise over 11 million dollars to benefit organizations in both Northern and Southern California who are providing services and support to people living with AIDS/HIV.
Learn More

Our volunteers put together over 3,000 safe sex kits and handed them out to the riders and spectators all along the route on sunday. What an awesome reception the volunteers received.
The riders were happy to see others out there spreading the word to help bring an end to this pandemic. Everyone on the side lines loved cheering on the riders as they struggled up highway 92 from San Mateo over into Halfmoon Bay. It was an incredible sight to watch the cyclist stream by for over 4 hours and then gather at San Gregorio for lunch. Watching as the riders climbed the hill out of San Gregorio towards their first days final destination in the Santa Cruz area was an incredible site.

Maxpro wishes them a safe and successful ride to Los Angeles.

This world needs more heros like these riders!

This summer MAXPRO condoms will be covering several other events to promote safe sex and responsible lifestyles. Look for us to be at the San Jose Gay Pride, San Francisco Gay Pride, San Francisco AIDS Walk, other bay area street fairs and events. We are always looking to co-sponsor events with non-profits and organizations seeking to promote safe sex and healthy lifestyles. Have any ideas feel free to let us know!

written by steven phillips 6/2/2008