INPUT ARTICLE: Article: There are several reigning positions on the origins of being gay, of which two factions are most prominent: genetic/biological roots vs. psychological/environmental roots. Still, as of today, scientists cannot clearly distinguish what causes one to be gay. Being gay is not a disease, and, therefore, there is no “cure”. Many people wrongly assume that curing gay people of their sexual urges can make them straight. In fact, it is not a cure that is needed, but greater social awareness and acceptance for gay people. Find some insightful statistics or gay discrimination videos and share them with your homophobic friend.  For many decades, gay and lesbian couples have faced strong opposition from society, public policy, and religion. Gay and bisexual individuals are the target of verbal harassment, abuse, and even violence, in some cases. What’s more, the association of being gay with having HIV/AIDS has further stigmatized gay, lesbian, and bisexuals, and resulted in people being afraid of being tested or seeking treatment for these diseases. Further educating your friends about LGBT issues can help them to come to understand gays, lesbians, and bisexuals, and reduce their negative feelings towards these individuals. Visit reputable websites or blogs that give provide a more thorough anti-homophobic understanding of sexuality. Popular culture can be a great vehicle to becoming more accepting of gay people and reducing others' fear or discomfort. Sit down with a friend or loved one and watch a TV show that depicts characters who are openly gay.  After the show goes off, ask your friend if they see any similarities between themselves and these characters? Aren’t they “normal” people with normal goals and desires? These characters can make them cry, laugh, or squeal with excitement just like any of the heterosexual characters, right? Check out these links to find some series and films about gay people. Every person has a trait or characteristic that could be deemed “different” by someone else in society. Maybe someone is shy. Or, they are an ethnic minority, or does not practice a religion. In some ways, these traits may cause anyone to feel isolated or singled-out. When people are able to recognize that all humans are special or unique, they are less likely to chastise others for who they are. Check out these inspiring quotes on diversity. Once a person has become more educated about sexuality and same-sex attraction and has shifted their perspective, it might be helpful to actually make the effort to know someone who is openly gay. Research of sexual prejudice has shown us that discrimination and stigmatization from heterosexuals to gay people decreases when straight people make an effort to engage with gays.

SUMMARY: Educate that there is no clear cause for being gay. Spread the word about the role of discrimination and prejudice. Share articles, blogs, and essays to learn more. Watch TV shows and movies together. Tell your peers to think about all the ways they are different. Challenge homophobes to get to know a gay person.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Choose a mild soap and gently wash your vaginal area. Make sure your hands are washed in the process. Rinse the soap off completely. Pat your the skin of your hands and vagina dry using a clean cotton cloth. Always use sanitary tools and wash your hands before applying the cream. This can prevent bacteria from spreading into your vagina. The tube of cream should come with an applicator that you can screw it onto. Gently squeeze the tube from the bottom so that the applicator is filled with the correct dosage. Look for a fill mark on the applicator or fill the applicator completely, if instructed. Don't overfill the applicator since you'll need to unscrew the applicator from the tube. Hold the applicator upright so that none of the cream leaks out. Avoid screwing the applicator and the tube too tight. You'll need to be able to get the tube of cream out of the applicator for future use. Stand with your legs and knees apart. Place one foot up on a stool, the edge of the toilet, the bathtub or a chair. Or, you could lay on your back with your knees bent and your feet about shoulder width apart. You should be somewhat comfortable and have easy access to your vaginal opening. Take your non-dominant hand and separate the lips of your vulva (the labia) so that your vagina is exposed. Your dominant hand should be holding the applicator filled with cream. Relax and place the applicator into your vaginal opening. Insert it in your vagina and depress the plunger of the applicator using your index finger. Depress the plunger completely so that it stops moving and all the cream is inserted. It may help to point the applicator towards the small of your back when you place it into your vaginal opening. Remove the applicator and dispose of it if you won't need it again. If you used a reusable applicator, wash it with warm soapy water. Rinse it well and let it air dry completely. Remember to wash and dry your hands. Since some of the cream may leak out, you might want to wear a sanitary pad (not a tampon) to collect any discharge.

SUMMARY:
Cleanse your vagina. Prepare the cream. Position your body. Insert the applicator. Dispose of the applicator.