When we talk about sexual health, we often hear the word "condom". But sometimes some people feel a little embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it openly, or even go to a pharmacy and ask for one. But this is not really what we should think about. Condoms are a very simple and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies and protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). So today we will talk about everything, without hiding anything, as simply as if we were talking to your best friend.
Simply put, what is this condom?
A condom is a very thin, flexible sheath. It acts as a barrier between two bodies during sexual intercourse. That is, it limits the contact of body fluids and sometimes skin with each other. This barrier prevents the spread
of viruses and bacteria that cause sexually transmitted diseases from one person to another. It also helps
protect against unwanted pregnancy by preventing a man's sperm from entering a woman's vagina. If you are sexually active, using a condom every time is the best way to have
safe sex . These are easily available at any pharmacy or supermarket.
What are the benefits and risks of using condoms?
Condoms are a very effective way to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy. When used correctly, they are more than 90% effective. They can specifically protect against:
However, like everything else, there are some risks. A condom can greatly reduce your risk, but it is not 100% guaranteed. Because a condom does not completely cover your genital area, there is a risk of contracting some diseases that can be transmitted from skin to skin. For example:
- Genital herpes
- Genital warts
- Syphilis
Additionally, condoms can sometimes
break, tear, or come off , increasing the risk of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.
The most important thing is to use a condom correctly, and then these risks can be greatly reduced.
Other risks can include:
What are the main reasons for condom failure?
Most of the time, condoms fail because of human error. That is, because of a flaw in the way we use them. Think about it, have these things happened to you too:
- Incorrect use: The main reason is not knowing how to put on a condom properly.
- Damage from sharp objects: Objects like long nails, rings, or piercings can cause small holes in the condom.
- Not using enough lube: Dryness can increase friction and cause the condom to tear.
- Wearing more than one condom: Some people think that wearing two condoms is more secure. This is wrong. This increases friction and increases the chance of both condoms breaking.
- Putting it on after sex begins: There is no point in putting the condom on after sexual contact. It should be used from the beginning.
- Reusing a used condom: Never do this. A condom should only be used once.
- Using Expired Condoms: Every condom has an expiration date. Do not use one that has passed that date.
- Using the wrong size condom: Using condoms that are too tight or too loose can cause them to slip or tear.
What types of condoms are there?
There are different types of condoms. You can choose the right one based on your and your partner's comfort.
| Condom type | Description |
|---|
| External/Male condoms | These are the most common type we see. They are worn on the male genitalia. |
| Internal/Female condoms | These are inserted into the woman's vagina and have a ring on the outside that can be easily removed after sex. |
| Dental dams | These are thin sheets of latex or polyurethane that are used as a barrier between the mouth and the genital area during oral sex. |
| Finger cots | These are like small condoms that you put on your fingers. They can be used for protection when using your fingers for sexual stimulation (fingering). |
What are condoms made of?
Condoms are mainly made of three types of materials. 1.
Latex: This is the most commonly used type of rubber. It is very effective in protecting against pregnancy and STIs. However, do not use it with oil-based lubes, as these can cause latex condoms to break. 2.
Plastic (Non-latex): Made from materials such as polyurethane or polyisoprene. These are a good option for those who are allergic to latex. 3.
Natural skin: Made from sheep intestines, this type prevents pregnancy.
However, it does not protect against STIs. Because viruses can enter through the very small holes in the skin, they are not recommended for protection against STIs.
How to use a condom correctly?
For best protection, put the condom on before sexual intercourse. Here's the correct way to do it. 1.
Check the expiration date: Check the date on the packet. Don't use expired ones. 2.
Open the packet carefully: Don't pull hard with your teeth or nails. Open the packet carefully using the small slit on the packet. 3.
Hold it in the right direction:Hold the rolled side of the condom facing out. 4.
Place on the penis: Place the condom on the tip of the erect penis. Leave a small gap (about an inch) at the tip to allow for sperm to collect. 5.
Squeeze the tip: Squeeze the tip of the condom to remove any air inside. 6.
Roll down: Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis. If it doesn't roll, you're holding the wrong side. Throw it away and get a new one. 7.
Remove: After sex, before ejaculation and while the penis is erect, carefully pull the condom out by holding the base of the condom. Then, remove the condom, tie a knot, wrap it in paper, and throw it in the trash.
Never flush it down the toilet. What do you do if the condom suddenly breaks?
This is a problem that many people have. Don't worry. There are things that need to be done.
- If you are worried about getting pregnant: You can use emergency contraception pills (morning-after pills). These can reduce the risk of pregnancy by about 89% if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. However, it is best to talk to your doctor about this and follow his or her advice.
- If you are concerned about STIs: Be sure to see your doctor and talk about getting tested for STIs, especially HIV.
Never use household items like balloons, plastic bags, or socks as a condom. They are not safe and can damage the genital area.
Take-Home Message
- If you are sexually active, condoms are a great and easy way to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.
- Always use a condom correctly from start to finish.
- Be sure to check the expiration date before using.
- Always store condoms in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. Carrying them around in your purse or wallet can damage them.
- If the condom suddenly breaks or falls off, do not panic and seek medical advice immediately.
- If you want to know about other methods of birth control (e.g., birth control pills, IUD), talk to your doctor about that as well.
Condoms, birth control, sexual health, STI, HIV, safe sex, pregnancy prevention
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