Today we are talking about a topic that many people are hesitant to talk about, but it is extremely important for our health and a good life. That is condom use. This is related to everything from sexual health, family planning, and protection from serious diseases. So let's be open and informed about this.
Simply put, what is a condom?
A condom is a very thin, flexible covering that is used during sexual intercourse. It has two main purposes.
1. Birth Control: This barrier prevents sperm from entering the vagina and fertilizing an egg.
2. Protection from sexually transmitted diseases: This is one of the best ways to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV, Herpes, and HPV, as it prevents the exchange of bodily fluids during sex.
These can be easily purchased from pharmacies and supermarkets without a doctor's prescription.
How effective are condoms?
This is a problem that many people have. If used correctly and with every act of sex , condoms are a very effective method.
- To prevent pregnancy: When used correctly, it is about 98% effective. This means that 98 out of 100 people will be able to prevent unwanted pregnancies. However, with typical use (possibly due to incorrect use, breakage, etc.), this success rate is about 87%. This means that if you use condoms only for a year, about 15 out of 100 people will get pregnant.
- To protect against diseases: Condoms can reduce the transmission of the HIV virus, which causes AIDS, by 71% to 80%. It is also very important to protect against other sexually transmitted diseases.
The most important thing is to choose the right size condom. If you use one that doesn't fit perfectly, it will be uncomfortable, more likely to slip off, or tear, and it will also reduce its protection.
What types of condoms are there?
There are many different types of condoms. But remember, don't use more than one condom at a time. The friction between two condoms can make them more likely to break.
| Condom type | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| External Condoms (Male Condoms) | This is the most common type. It is worn over the erect penis. It collects semen and prevents it from entering the vagina. |
| Internal Condoms (Female Condoms) | These are inserted into the vagina. They prevent sperm from entering the uterus. They have a small ring that makes it easier to remove from the outside. However, they may not be as effective as male condoms in preventing sexually transmitted diseases. |
| Dental Dams | These are thin rubber or polyurethane sheets that act as a barrier between the mouth and the genitals or anus during oral sex. This can reduce the risk of transmitting diseases like HPV. |
| Finger Condoms | Small sheaths that are worn on the fingers during finger sex. Although this method does not prevent pregnancy, there is a very small risk of infection. This can further reduce that risk. |
What are condoms made of?
Most condoms are made from a type of rubber called latex. However, some people can be allergic to this latex. Symptoms such as skin irritation and itching can occur. If you or your partner has a latex allergy, do not use latex condoms. Instead, there are alternatives such as:
- Male condoms made of polyurethane (a type of plastic).
- Female condoms are made from a non-latex synthetic material called Nitrile.
- Condoms made from animal skin: Important: These only prevent pregnancy. They are not suitable for protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
The difference between lubricated and unlubricated condoms
Lubricated condoms contain a substance that helps reduce friction during intercourse. If friction increases, the condom is more likely to break. Some condoms contain a spermicide. This slows down the speed of sperm and prevents them from reaching the egg.
Remember! If you are using additional lubricant with a latex condom, always use only water-based lubricants . Never use oil-based lubricants (e.g. Vaseline, baby oil). Oil weakens the latex rubber, increasing the risk of tearing, breaking, and leaking.
How to wear a condom correctly?
Okay, now let's see how to do this exactly.
1. Check the expiration date: Be sure to check the expiration date on the package. Do not use expired products.
2. Open carefully: Carefully tear open the package from one corner. Do not cut with your teeth, nails, or scissors. This may damage the condom.
3. Look at the right side: Before you unroll the condom, look at the direction it is rolled. Hold it with the side that can be easily rolled down, like a hat.
4. Place on the penis: Place the condom on the tip of the erect penis.
5. Remove the air from the tip: There should be a small space at the tip of the condom for sperm to collect. Therefore, squeeze the tip with two fingers to remove the air inside.
6. Roll down: Now carefully roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis.
7. Disposal after use: After ejaculation, while the penis is still erect, carefully remove the penis by holding the tip of the condom. Then, remove the condom, wrap it in a tissue, and throw it in the trash. Do not flush it down the toilet.
What do you do if the condom breaks or tears?
This is something that can happen, so don't panic. But you need to act quickly.
- If you are worried about getting pregnant: You can use emergency contraceptive pills, or as some call them, the "morning-after pill." If taken within 72 hours of sex, they are up to 89% effective. See your doctor right away to learn more about this and get medication if needed.
- If you suspect you have an STD: Talk to your doctor about this and get tested for STDs and HIV if necessary.
When should you see a doctor?
Be sure to see your doctor in the following situations:
- If emergency contraception is needed.
- If you need to get STD testing.
- If symptoms of an STD (genital sores, discharge, itching, pain) appear.
- If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection (urinary tract infection) (urinary tract infection, frequent urination).
- If you suspect you have a latex allergy.
- If you suspect you are pregnant.
Take-Home Message
- Using condoms is the only way to protect against both unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
- You can achieve maximum protection by using it correctly and every time you have sex .
- Be sure to check the expiration date before use. Avoid storing in hot, humid places, such as in a purse or pocket, for long periods of time.
- If you need additional lubrication with latex condoms, use only water-based ones.
- If the condom breaks or slips, don't panic and immediately consult your doctor about emergency contraception and STD testing .
- Don't be shy about talking about this. Your sexual health is a very important part of your life.
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