Below, for the next few pages (forgive me) are some things I've gleaned from the internet about this topic. After the next few pages of supporting information I have a few specific questions typed in bold. Any answers, insights, or information you may have about the information below are really appreciated. If you don't feel comfortable making statements on the ideas presented below, perhaps you could refer this message to someone with knowledge in this area. Sorry for bothering you with this long message; I finally got up the nerve to write it after a number of months. Thanks for your time.

Spermicide and increased risk of STD transmission Health Canada: Spermicide that covers the condom facilitates STD transmission by weakening the immune system and creating genital lesions that facilitate the exchange of blood and fluids.

Allergic reactions

Health Canada: Allergic reactions to latex rubber can go so far as shock and death.

Latex rubber as a cancer-inducing substance "Volatile organic compounds contained and released by latex rubber (of which the condom is made) are recognised cancer-inducing substances.

Ectopic pregnancy STDs can lead to ectopic pregnancy, a situation where the conceived child, blocked by infection and/or scarring, implants outside the uterus and can lead to the rupture of abdominal organs if pregnancy is not detected in time 59 . Ectopic pregnancy causes some 13% of maternal deaths 60 , and it is on the increase in Canada 61 .

Spontaneous abortion STDs can cause spontaneous abortion (stillbirth early in pregnancy) because the child cannot implant in the uterus due to infection and the scarring related to STDs 62 . Spontaneous abortion is on the rise in Canada 63 . [syphilis can cause fetal death or stillbirth]

STD infection and increased risk of AIDS transmission "Ulcerous STDs (e.g. syphilis, herpes) as well as inflammatory STDs (e. g. gonococcic infection, Chlamydia), act as a transmission factor for HIV infection. The presence of these STDs increases the level of contagion of HIV-infected persons and increases HIV vulnerability on uninfected persons.

Cervical cap, cervical sponge, female condom all can result in ectopic pregnancy, uterine perforation, and bladder infection. These things can lead to miscarriage/abortion.

Health risks

Pages 6 to 10 of the Nuvaring -- medical descriptive paper (see note 1) describe in detail all of the health risks related to hormonal contraception: cervical and breast cancer; thrombosis; heart attack; osteoporosis; gallbladder disease; aneurism; embolism; phlebititus; hypertension; kidney and liver stones; kidney, urinary and vaginal infections; water retention, etc.). Other studies corroborate and explicitate these and other health risks 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37 . Some of these disease can lead to miscarriage.

Long term birth control pill usage can possibly cause abortion, according to reading I've done.

Q:A while back a friend of mine brought to my attention an item which you published on the possible link between condoms and cancer in women (WDDTY, vol 6 no 2). If this is true it must be the greatest medical scandal of all time. I would like to kn A:The British "kite mark" is an assurance of quality control (ie, your condom is unlikely to break or leak). It does not necessarily ensure that your condom is free from harmful substances. Your GP should review articles published in the medical press recently which have concerned themselves with the process of moulding latex into things such as condoms and surgical gloves a process which involves the use of talc, cornstarch and other powders. The truth is that no one knows what risks we may face because of the long term use of condoms. It has only been in the last few years, as condom use has increased due to the fear of sexually transmitted diseases, that it has become an issue.

Talc is used in the manufacture of latex goods both as a lubricant and to release the product from the mould used in its manufacture. The use of talc on surgical gloves was virtually eliminated early in the 1990s since there was evidence that it created inflammation and adhesions in some surgical patients (Arch Dermatol, 1994; 130: 48-53). Although some condom manufacturers still use talc as a dry lubricant, others use dry lubricants such as silicone and cornstarch.

The harmful effects of talc on human tissue were first recorded in the 1930s. Thirty years later there was a reported case of a woman who had a significant amount of talc in her peritoneal (abdominal) cavity talc which matched that found on the surface of her husband's condoms (Lancet, 1963; 1: 1295-6). The authors concluded that talc travelled up through the fallopian tubes and became implanted in the peritoneal cavity. They also predicted that talc might contribute to occlusion (blockage) and sterility. A more ominous series of studies linked talc to ovarian cancer talc was observed in a number of ovarian and uterine tumours as well as in ovarian tissue (Lancet, 1979; 2: 349-51; J Ob Gyn Br Commonwealth, 1971; 78: 266-72) and it has since been confirmed that talc, either placed on the perineum (or on the surface of underwear, sanitary towels, diaphragms or condoms), can reach the ovaries via ascent through the fallopian tubes (Am J Epidem, 1989; 130-394; Ob Gyn, July 1992). There has been little attention paid to the possibility of damage to the male urogenital tract through regular condom use, although this also remains a distinct possibility.

In 1995, Dr Candace Sue Kaspar produced two reports on the possible adverse effects of talc in condoms (JAMA, 1995; 273: 846-7; JAMA 1995; 274: 1269-70). Many condom manufacturers were quick to get in touch with Dr Kaspar to point out that they no longer used talc or were phasing out its use.

Two interesting things emerged from these correspondences. First, under examination, many of these talc free condoms had other particles on them, such as vegetable starches, silica, mica and diatomaceous earth. One brand contained numerous lycopodium (club moss) spores. Spores of the club moss were used as absorbents in surgical glove donning powders earlier this century, but the practice was abandoned when it was shown that lycopodium caused granulomas (small fibrous growths) and peritoneal adhesions (the abdominal organs become inflamed and begin to stick together) (Arch Pathol, 1933; 16:326-31; J Cutan Pathol, 1988; 15: 120-3).

Moreover, as Kaspar and colleagues pointed out, lycopodium can be contaminated with talc, sulphur and/or gypsum. Lycopodium has not been linked with cancer, but is associated with inflammation of the soft tissues. There are other problems with what is touted as the world's safest contraceptive device. Increasingly it is becoming associated with contact dermatitis in both men and women. In one study 24 per cent of those who regularly used condoms experienced local swelling and/or itching during intercourse (Contact Derm, 1989; 20: 360-4). There have also been reports of allergic reactions to talc substitutes, such as cornstarch, used in their production (Cutis, 1986; 38: 291-3).

In fact, cornstarch has been implicated in hypersensitivity reactions in patients whose surgeons use gloves dusted with it (Br J Surg, 1976; 63: 864-6) as well as granulomas in various organs throughout the body (Am J Surg, 1973; 125: 455-7; Surg Gyn Ob, 1974; 138: 385-8; Acta Pathol Microbial Scand, 1970; 64: 55-8; Am J Ob Gyn 1974; 118: 799-802). In men, contact dermatitis from condom use is relatively easy to diagnose.

In women, diagnosis can be rather more difficult. Increased vaginal discharge, a burning sensation in the vagina, and itching in the vulva may all be present, yet when the woman comes to be examined by her practitioner these things may not be detectable by any laboratory investigation.

There are a few non rubber and non latex condoms on the market in the US, but none in the UK. Non rubber condoms such as Fourex Natural Lamb Skins (Schmidt, Sarasota, Florida) and Trojan Natural Lamb Skins (Young Drug Products, New York) are made of processed sheep intestine (caecum) and are, in themselves, hypoallergenic. However, they may contain a lubricant that includes perfume, preservative (Bronopol) and propylene glycol, which may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. These non rubber condoms can prevent transmission of sperm, but the FDA has ruled that they may be ineffective in preventing transmission of HIV.

Non latex synthetic condoms were first developed in 1992 in the US and made of Tactylon the same substance used to make some surgical gloves. They do protect against HIV and are well tolerated in individuals sensitive to rubber. A new polyurethane condom called Avanti is already on sale in America and is due to be launched in the UK next year. The female contraceptive "pouch" is also made of polyurethane.

Copyright © 1996 1996 What Doctors Don't Tell You (Volume 8, Issue 2)

Granulomas may form when cells of the immune system gather to respond to irritants or to defend the body against foreign substances in the liver. Inflammation can result. If it is widespread, the liver may malfunction. Rarely, fibrous tissue and portal hypertension develop. Granulomas themselves typically cause no symptoms. The liver may enlarge slightly, and mild jaundice (a yellowish discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes) may develop. Other symptoms, if they develop, result from the disorder causing the granulomas. Granulomas caused by sarcoidosis may disappear spontaneously or persist for years with out causing any noticeable symptoms.

Condoms, especially the spermicidal variety, increase the risk of urinary tract infections in women. Some men and women find the latex irritating due to allergy, and spermicidal condoms can worsen the allergenic properties of the latex.

According to research, talc on condom can cause ovarian cancer, ovarian/uterine tumors, and uterine abnormalities which can all lead to miscarriage

My QUESTIONS:

Likelihood of cancer from condom?

Condom lubricant causing contraction of uterine wall and therefore miscarriage?

Are there other abortive mechanisms of the condom?

Abortifacient mechanism in the pill (preventing the embryo from implanting in the uterine wall), how often does this happen?

Latex and talc possibly carcinogenic, then get cancer which can cause miscarriage?

Are the two paragraphs below true or hold some degree of truth?

Spontaneous abortion: STDs can cause spontaneous abortion (stillbirth early in pregnancy) because the child cannot implant in the uterus due to infection and the scarring related to STDs 62 . Spontaneous abortion is on the rise in Canada 63 . [syphilis can cause fetal death or stillbirth]

Cervical cap, cervical sponge, female condom all can result in ectopic pregnancy, uterine perforation, and bladder infection.

These things can lead to miscarriage/abortion.

What I don’t see in any of your writing is the positive. Since you have focused on one aspect of religious orthodoxy (I do not know which religion, but I will tell you that many religions do NOT condemn the sexual pleasures that seem to torture you), I want to address some of the questions you might ask yourself.

If a God (or higher power of any name) created us, why would he have put so many pleasure endings in us that are present with us from before we are born? Modern research shows that boys in utero have erections (ultra sounds document this regularly these days, taken of the same baby with an erection and at times without) , and we know that baby girls lubricate spontaneously immediately after birth (it is suspected they lubricate in utero but it is not easily observed!). Babies are soothed, excited, and reaching for their genitals and enjoying mothers’ nipples as soon as their coordination allows it. Young children are observed throughout childhood, touching, fondling, rubbing, grinding, kissing and more because it feels good. There is NO time in our life, even when we are old that our bodies do not enjoy the sensual/sexual feelings that may be aroused in many different ways. Our bodies were created to be sensual and sexual. (God) made us this way. Therefore to try to sublimate our sexual feelings often leads to frustrations, fears, anxieties and possible reactions that you describe above. Sexual arousal and release is all a very natural part of our development.

Let me take each of your questions (and some of the comments that you have read on the internet) and try to clarify for you.

My QUESTIONS:

likelihood of cancer from condom? Of all the press that condoms get, the one that has no valid research connected to it is the that cancer comes from using condoms. Yes, some people are allergic to latex (a type of rubber vulcanized for condoms and surgical gloves) but an allergic reaction is probably the most serious response. Redness, soreness and in some people difficulty breathing (as latex creates a type of aerosol). That is why they stopped using latex to make gloves and other materials for use in hospitals – the “latex smell” floats in the air and people can be allergic to it. Most people are not allergic and there is no other fatal or even serious condition associated with condoms. There are also polyurethane ones (as you write above) that people who are allergic to latex can use. Avanti is the most famous brand, but Trojan has a polyurethane one now as do other companies.

Condom lubricant causing contraction of uterine wall and therefore miscarriage?? Not ever heard of this at all. Condoms come without lubricant, and people use various lubricants on them to make them more slipperty and sensual, so unless there is something in the lubricant that would have a pitocin or other chemical for creating contractions, then there is no truth to the above.

Are there other abortive mechanisms of the condom?? Not at all.

abortifacient mechanism in the pill (preventing the embryo from implanting in the uterine wall), how often does this happen? All of the hormone methods of contraception (Pill, Nuvaring, Patch, Implanon, Injectables) work in the same way. The hormone is absorbed by the body and transfers to the ovaries to stop the ovaries from creating an egg. Therefore, if an egg is not developed and released there can be no meeting of egg and sperm and no implantation of any embryo because no embryo is ever formed (can’t have an embryo without an egg).

Plan B, a hormone system that is used when a woman has been raped or had unplanned intercourse also does not stop the embryo. Instead it causes the release of the uterine lining so that if a sperm and egg should meet there is no place for it to find an implantation site at the early stage of the formation of cells. It is not even called an embryo at this stage, but a blastula – a grouping of the cells that have not yet differentiated.

Latex and talc possibly carcinogenic, then get cancer which can cause miscarriage?As mentioned above, there is no research on this at all. First, most miscarriages are spontaneous, and 1 in 3 or 4 pregnancies result in one. The process of completion of the pregnancy to a viable stage is very complicated and so many pregnancies do not get to that stage. There is no one cause. The body naturally does not feel the process of development is working. Are the two paragraphs below true or hold some degree of truth?

Spontaneous abortion: STDs can cause spontaneous abortion (stillbirth early in pregnancy) because the child cannot implant in the uterus due to infection and the scarring related to STDs 62 . Spontaneous abortion is on the rise in Canada 63 . [syphilis can cause fetal death or stillbirth True] Certainly the presence of the infections in the body, including several of the STDs can cause many defects in the developing embryo. Some may not be able to implant and others go to full term but are damaged or have ‘birth defects”. That is why it is important to have protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms are used for this even among couples who are married. Partners can have other relationships at some time in their life and may get an STD.

Cervical cap, cervical sponge, female condom all can result in ectopic pregnancy, uterine perforation, and bladder infection. These things can lead to miscarriage/abortion. These are not true at all. They all are only inserted into the vagina and have no way of getting into the uterus. It may help you to learn the anatomy of the female, since all these concerns are for the female.

Do you have any concerns about males? You seem to be worried about the birth and viability of a baby. Most sexual pleasures that people engage in don’t involve any of the concerns that you write about here.

I moved some of these statements below because I wanted to address them as well as the questions you asked me. Copyright © 1996 1996 What Doctors Don't Tell You (Volume 8, Issue 2) Please NOTE how old this source is . Almost 15 years. So much has changed in 15 years that almost any thing you read will not be accurate in 2010. Research and new knowledge have created so much change.

Granulomas may form when cells of the immune system gather to respond to irritants or to defend the body against foreign substances in the liver. Inflammation can result. If it is widespread, the liver may malfunction. Rarely, fibrous tissue and portal hypertension develop. Granulomas themselves typically cause no symptoms. The liver may enlarge slightly, and mild jaundice (a yellowish discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes) may develop. Other symptoms, if they develop, result from the disorder causing the granulomas. Granulomas caused by sarcoidosis may disappear spontaneously or persist for years with out causing any noticeable symptoms. What is your concern or connection to granulomas. This has no direct connection to sex behaviors or sex.

Condoms, especially the spermicidal variety, increase the risk of urinary tract infections in women. Some men and women find the latex irritating due to allergy, and spermicidal condoms can worsen the allergenic properties of the latex. Yes, for some this is true. But there are so many brands of condoms, so many types of latex and lubricant (please note that there are very few condoms that have spermicidal lubricant in comparison to those that are just lubricated, powdered or dry where you then can add your own lubricant (do NOT use oil-based products for lubricants as they cause the latex to break).

According to research, talc on condom can cause ovarian cancer, ovarian/uterine tumors, and uterine abnormalities which can all lead to miscarriage NOT TRUE at all. There is no data or knowledge of this at all.

I hope this information is helpful to you.

Reviewed by: Kathleen Scarbo (VanKirk) MA, DHS, CYT