Frequently Asked Questions about Sex and Wellness
Here are answers to those sometimes-embarrassing questions about STIs, sexual health, and condoms. If you are concerned about your sexual health, discuss with your physician or doctor.
What is an STI?
STI stands for Sexually Transmitted Infection.
STD stands for Sexually Transmitted Disease. All diseases start with an infection, so you can think of an STD as a more advanced stage of an STI. Infections don’t always cause symptoms, while diseases do.
An STI is any infection that is passed by body fluids during vaginal, anal or oral sex. These fluids include semen (cum), vaginal fluids (the wetness in the vagina) and blood. A latex condom acts as a barrier to prevent these fluids from being exchanged. But,an STI can also be spread by contact with the skin of the genital or anal area if infection is present. It can also be spread by contact inside of the mouth.
Am I at risk for STIs?
If you are sexually active you may be at risk for STIs. Remember, when you have sex with someone, you are exposed to everyone they have had sex with before you. It’s important to talk to your partner about their history before having sex.
What are some common STIs?
Some common STIs are HIV infection (AIDS), syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, human papillomavirus infection (HPV), genital herpes and hepatitis B. While most STIs can be treated, many cannot be cured. They stay with you for your whole life.
What are some common symptoms of STIs?
Some STIs have no symptoms at all. Others appear and then disappear, while the infection remains. So you can’t always rely on symptoms to show that you have become infected. Some common STI symptoms to be aware of are: pain or burning while urinating, rashes, sores, blisters, itchiness, unusual discharge from the penis or vagina and pain during sex. If you think you might be infected with an STI, see a doctor or healthcare provider ASAP. Delaying treatment can cause the infection to get worse!
What can I do to protect myself from STIs?
The only way to be 100% safe from STIs and HIV/AIDS is to abstain from all sexual activities. If you are going to have sex, the correct and consistent use of latex condoms can help protect you from many STIs, including HIV/AIDS. Latex condoms also help reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancy. You can’t tell if someone is infected just by looking at them. Even if you’re very close your partner may not know they have an STI — or they may be too embarrassed to tell you. It’s up to you to protect yourself, and to tell your partners if you have STI.
Do latex condoms work to protect me from STIs and pregnancy?
YES. Latex condoms block the smallest organisms and even large particles like sperm. When a condom is worn correctly, it can help prevent most major STIs. A few STIs, such as herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and syphilis, can sometimes infect places on the body not protected by condoms. If you or your partner notice sores in the genital area, you should not have sex. Then call your doctor or health care provider for an exam immediately.
Am I at risk of getting HIV/AIDS?
If you’re having sex, there’s always that possibility. Young people are especially at risk. About one half (50%) of all new HIV infections happen to people under the age of 25. Studies show that about one third (33%) of all people with HIV/AIDS haven’t even been tested so your partner may not even know that they have it.
Can I get an STI through oral sex?
STIs and STDs can be transmitted through oral sex. Some STDs (like herpes) can be spread from the mouth to the genitals and vice versa. With others (like chlamydia and gonorrhea) the risk is that partners will give or get an infection of throat. The exact risk varies widely based on the STI and the type of oral sex. For example, syphilis is commonly spread through oral sex whereas there is little or no risk of spreading HIV this way. And, for some infections there is potentially a greater risk if you are giving or receiving mouth-to-penis oral sex than if you are giving or receiving mouth-to-vulva or mouth-to-anus oral sex. While the risk varies, it is fair to say that oral sex always carries some risk of STIs. Using a condom or dental dam (a rectangular sheet of latex) can help reduce this risk. It is usually better to choose a non-lubricated condom if you are going to use it for oral sex.
How effective/safe are condoms?
Condoms are safe and effective. They’re 98% effective in preventing pregnancy when used consistently and correctly. This means that 2 out of 100 couples who use condoms as their primary method of birth control will experience an unintended pregnancy in the first year. The average couple has intercourse 83 times in a year; 2 pregnancies out of 8,300 sex act is a remarkably low pregnancy rate (0.02%) when calculated on a per-condom basis.
People don’t always use condoms consistently (every time they have sex) and correctly (following instructions from start to finish). Research estimates that under real world conditions, condoms are about 87% effective in preventing pregnancy. It’s important to know that this includes condoms that are used incorrectly (like putting it on too late or taking it off too early) and even includes sex acts that may not have been protected by a condom at all.
Condoms are also the only form of birth control (other than abstinence) that provides protection against STIs, including HIV. Most people can use latex condoms without any side effects. A small number of people (less than 1% of the population) may be allergic to latex. These people can use polyurethane condoms instead. All of our condoms are made of premium latex.
How should I store condoms?
Storage is important. Keep your condoms in a cool, dry place. Storing them near heat (in your glove compartment) can cause them to become brittle or gummy and not be any good to use. Learn more about condom care.
How can I tell if a condom is damaged?
Damaged packaging is one way to tell. Another is to look at the condom and feel it before you unroll it, and/or check it when it’s on an erect penis. A condom that sticks to itself, is gummy or brittle, isn’t the same colour all over, or has tears or holes shouldn’t be used. But don’t go too far — unrolling the condom or filling it with air or water to check it can also damage the condom.
What’s the best way to prevent condom breakage?
Condoms undergo rigorous quality control testing at each step of the manufacturing process to ensure that they are intact, strong and stable. It’s not common for condoms to break if they are used correctly. There are a few additional things that you can do to help prevent condom breakage:
- Make sure the condom is not expired.
- Store your condoms in a cool dry place (not the wallet that you keep in
- your pocket).
- Use water- or silicone-based lubricant (more lubrication cuts down on
- friction).
- Do not use oil-based lube like baby oil or coconut oil (these can break
- down latex).
- Do not use a male (external) condom with a female (internal) condom
- (this causes friction).
- Make sure the condom fits correctly (if the condom feels too tight
- consider using a larger one or one that has a different shape).
Do I need to use a condom for anal sex?
Yep. You should use a condom for every sex act, including anal sex. The skin in the anal passage is very fragile and can tear. STIs can be easily spread through anal sex. In fact, anal sex is the riskiest form of sex for getting HIV/AIDS. Condoms can protect you during anal sex. Using a water or silicone-based lubricant will help reduce the risk of a latex condom breaking. However, a condom with spermicidal lubricant should not be used during anal sex.
Do I need to use a condom for oral sex?
YES. Many people mistakenly believe oral sex is a way to practice safe sex, but it’s not. STIs can be spread during oral sex. To be safe, you should use a condom if the penis is going to touch the mouth. Be sure to use a condom that’s labeled effective against STIs. If your mouth touches the outside or inside of your partner’s vagina (cunnilingus) or anus (anilingus), you can reduce your risk of getting an STI by placing a barrier (sometimes called a “Dental Dam”) over the vagina or anus.
Can TROJAN® condoms be used with massage oil, baby oil, petroleum jelly, etc.?
Nope, don’t do it. Oil can destroy the condom. To prevent damage to the condom, only water or silicone-based personal lubricants should be used with latex condoms.
Are TROJAN® condoms available in different sizes?
MAGNUM™ condoms are 15% larger than standard condoms and come in varying sizes. Check out our condom size guide for a more detailed look, or explore Find My Trojan® for help finding the right one for you.
Can TROJAN® condoms expire?
Condoms do expire. Please refer to the date printed on the outer packaging and on each individual foil. The expiry date format on the packaging is displayed as follows: YYYY-MM-DD.
How do vibrators work? Is it just magic? Or…
Actually, most vibrators use an internal motor to generate movement. The motor twirls an off-center weight around, inside the vibrator. The force of the spinning weight causes vibration. When the vibrator touches sensitive areas or genitals, the vibration creates pleasurable sensations that can lead to a more intense orgasm.
How do I use my vibe?
Good question, and the basic answer is you can use it however you think feels good. But for details on how to use your Trojan™ vibrator, refer to the product guide that came in its package or check out our how to vibe guide.
Is my Trojan® vibrator for internal and external use?
The use of our vibrators is up to you, but our Trojan® Tandem is for external use only. Feel free to sexplore with Trojan® Bullet and Trojan® Divine as they are designed for both internal and external use.
How should I store my Trojan® vibrator?
Your vibe likes to be tucked in, too. Before storing your vibrator, make sure it is dry, clean and free of any lubricants. For more advice on storage, refer to the user guide that came with your vibrator.
What if my Trojan® vibrator stops working?
Trojan® vibrators are top-quality sex toys that have earned the Trojan® Quality Seal, but like all mechanical devices, they won’t last forever. But don’t worry, you can do some trouble-shooting. First, make sure that the batteries are installed correctly and all components are properly secured. If you have a fresh set of batteries, try using them and see what happens. Refer to the product user guide if you have any questions about batteries. Check for and remove any foreign objects that might be preventing the on/off switch from working correctly. If your vibrator has been damaged in any way, don’t use it.
Is my Trojan® vibrator water-proof?
Trojan® Bullet is washable, but can’t be submerged. Trojan® Divine and Trojan® Vibrating Rings are NOT waterproof.
Why should I use a vibrator?
It’s really up to you. But just so you know, studies published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine show that people who use vibrators scored themselves higher on arousal, orgasm, lubrication and erectile function than those who had never used one.
And studies show that men and women who use vibrators are also more likely to engage in healthy behaviours, such as self-examination and regular health exams by a doctor. Simply put, exploring and enjoying your sexuality helps you be more aware of your genital health. Plus, it’s pretty fun.
Is it okay for me to use a vibrator?
You bet. Using a vibrator is a healthy and responsible way to learn about your sexual self. Vibrator use increases pleasure, which may help a person feel more desire, arousal and lubrication.
Almost everyone can use a vibrator — women, men, non-binary, singles and couples — as long as you are ready and responsible enough to take charge of your sexual life. You can use a vibrator for safer sex, such as protection from STIs (if you don’t share your vibrator with a partner), and there is no risk of pregnancy.
If you are pregnant or have any serious health issues or questions, talk to your doctor before you use a vibrator.
When should I use a vibrator?
Whenever the mood strikes, the vibe is right. Many women and men use vibrators for masturbation as well as during foreplay with a partner. Couples play is a great time to explore each other’s bodies with a vibrator. Vibrators add a new dimension to sexual play.
Are vibrators only for women?
Vibrators can be used by everyone — people who identify as women, men, non-binary, singles and couples. According to a study by The Center for Sexual Health Promotion at Indiana University, 45% of men between the ages of 18 and 60 have used a vibrator during sexual interaction.
There are lots of ways for those with a penis to give and receive pleasure with a vibrator. Many are introduced to vibrators by their partner, but once they learn the joys of vibration, they’re hooked. You do you.
What materials are Trojan® vibrators made of?
Good clean fun. Our vibrators are made of high-quality, medical grade silicone and plastic. They’re nonporous, easy-to-clean and do not contain any unhealthy chemical compounds or phthalates.
Do Trojan® vibrators contain phthalates?
Trojan® vibes do NOT contain phthalates. Phthalates are chemicals used to soften hard plastics. Until a few years ago, phthalates could be found in everything from children’s toys and food packaging to cosmetics and vibrators. Good riddance, toxic chemicals.
How do I care for my Trojan® vibrator?
Because Trojan® vibes are made from nonporous materials, they’re easy to clean and not likely to carry bacteria if cared for properly.
PRECAUTION: Clean vibrator after every use. Make sure the product is dry before storing.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLEANING:
- Rinse the vibrator in running warm water and apply hand soap to clean. Take care to clean and rinse the entire vibrator thoroughly.
- Dry the vibrator with a clean, dry cloth, making sure the entire vibrator is
- completely dry.
- Store the cleaned, dry vibrator in a clean, dry place so it is ready for next use.
DO NOT PLACE UNWASHED VIBRATOR IN STORAGE.
NOTE: Trojan® vibes are NOT dishwasher safe. Please refer to the product user guide for more information.
Always wash your vibrator after every use.
If not cleaned or stored carefully, vibrators can breed bacteria that can irritate intimate areas. This bacteria can be passed from one partner to another and back again, or even from the user to their vibrator and back again. Left unchecked, this bacteria can exacerbate and cause bacterial or yeast infections. Always clean your vibrator thoroughly and store it in a safe, clean place so it won’t pick up lint, dust or other dirt.
SPECIAL SAFETY NOTE FOR SHARING A VIBRATOR WITH A PARTNER:
Always wash a vibrator after any anal contact. If you are sharing a vibrator between two partners, you must be honest with each other about whether or not you have any STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections). You should always clean the vibrator thoroughly between each partner’s uses.
What if I have discomfort when I use my vibe?
If used properly and with water-based lubrication, it’s rare that a vibrator would cause discomfort or irritation.
To avoid any discomfort, make sure you:
- Never use a vibrator when you have an infection, irritation, itching, sores, abrasions or injury of any kind.
- Never use your vibrator for more than 30 minutes at a time.
- Do not use your vibrator if there is any fluid leaking from the battery.
- Check with your doctor if you are pregnant, wear a pacemaker, or have any serious heart or health condition.
- If you experience any kind of discomfort, check with your doctor before you continue to use your vibrator.
Can my vibrator get stuck inside me?
Don’t panic. If a vibrator isn’t easily removed, turn off the vibrator first. Then, apply as much lubricant as you can to the area. Relax as much as possible, so your muscles loosen a bit. Keep calm. See if you can work one or two fingers in and try to ease the vibrator out. If that doesn’t work, try bearing down with your muscles to push the vibrator out. Relax and let your body release the vibrator.
Trojan® Bullet is attached to its remote control, so just follow the string!
A good way to avoid this situation is to never insert anything that doesn’t have a flared end or something at the base that will keep it from going too far inside. And listen to your body and be careful how far you insert a vibrator.
If you’re having the opposite problem and an insertable vibrator isn’t easily entering the vagina, you most likely need to use lubrication.
Is it okay to own more than one vibrator?
For sure. In fact, vibrators are a safe and healthy way to explore your sexuality and learn about your body. Having more than one will give you the opportunity to experiment with a variety of sensations, positions and techniques. There are vibrators that are preferred for solo play and some that are especially nice for couples. By trying out a variety of vibes with and without a partner, you’ll discover more. Your sex life and relationships will benefit from your own self-awareness.
We’ve found from our studies that most people who enjoy the use of a vibrator often will purchase more than one in their first year of use, and will continue to explore vibrators in the years following.
What if my partner is uncomfortable with me using a vibrator? Some people may feel threatened by a vibrator because they think it will replace them sexually or that their partner will become addicted to using it. Always be honest and open with your partner when discussing your sex life. Remind them that nothing can take the place of human intimacy. You can even suggest trying a vibrator together. A study by the Center for Sexual Health Promotion at Indiana University showed that 90% of women who have used a vibrator say it enhanced their relationship with their partner. Some products, like the Trojan® Tandem, are even designed with two people in mind.
How can I talk to my partner about introducing a vibrator?
Honesty is always the best policy. Just try being direct with your partner. Don’t surprise him or her with a vibrator. You want to make sure your partner is comfortable and open to the idea so that you will both have a great experience with the vibrator.