Before describing any preventive measures, it is well to stress the fact that any person who indulges in promiscuous sexual intercourse is to be looked upon as a probable source of infection. There is nothing in the external appearance to show whether or not one is diseased. Intelligence, refinement, or social standing—none of these indicate that one is incapable of transmitting venereal infection. The only safe way is to apply prophylactic measures in every case.
Preventive Measures for Men
There are various ways by which the venereal diseases can be prevented with almost complete certainty. A condom used during intercourse will give a fair degree of protection, provided it does not burst. The condom is objected to, however, because it dulls sensation to some extent. Moreover, it does not protect the pubic region, the scrotum, or the thighs, all of which may be sites of entry of spirochetes. When a condom has been used, the external genitals and all adjacent parts should be thoroughly washed as promptly as possible after intercourse. Ordinary soap and water is an efficient germicide, though tincture of green soap or mercuric iodide soap would be better.
If no condom has been used, not only the washing as discussed in the preceding paragraph should be done, but in addition, particular pains should be taken to cleanse the area around the opening of the urethra, the head of the penis, and the foreskin. When thorough washing has been done, the bladder should be emptied. A 2 per cent solution of protargol is then injected into the urethra and retained for five minutes, when it is allowed to drain out. A 30 per cent calomel ointment is next applied to the penis and rubbed in very thoroughly. Last of all, a lump of calomel ointment, the size of a navy bean, is placed within the urethra and allowed to remain. The penis is wrapped in any convenient covering.
The urine should not be passed for four hours. These measures, if applied within two or three hours after intercourse, hare a high degree of efficiency in prevention of disease.
