Gnosis

Created for the BioDesign Challenge, Gnosis is a two-fold sexual wellness campaign aimed at destigmatizing sexually transmitted infections. Gnosis condoms utilize red cabbage as a natural pH indicator to create a lubricant that visually detects STI sores caused by HSV 1&2, syphilis, genital warts, and chancroid. The difference in pH between the open sores and the skin of the penis causes our special lubricant to change color locally at the sites of infection. The condom was designed to encourage male users who suspect they may have an STI to get tested. However, we encourage users to get tested regardless of color change results.

 

In addition to the condoms, Gnosis offers free workshops that are designed to encourage open, confident and honest conversations between partners. Attendees learn what STIs are, how they are treated, and how they can practice safe sex to keep themselves and others healthy. We also teach participants practical skills such as what to do if your partner tells you they have an STI, how to tell your partner you have an STI, or what to do if STI testing isn’t readily accessible to you for whatever reason. Gnosis workshops are dedicated to empowering participants to understand and take control of their sexual health. Knowledge is power, and the more people understand their bodies, the less afraid they are to have agency over their sexual health.

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Presented at the Biodesign Challenge 2019 in New York City