Condom Sense
by Dherbs
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Given the number of sexually transmittable diseases (such as HIV/AIDS, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, etc.) it is more important than ever to practice safe sex.
Abstinence is the only foolproof way to guarantee against pregnancy or the contraction of any sexually transmitted diseases, but there are a number of different methods and devices that will dramatically lower the odds of such an event occurring.
Birth Control Methods
- Birth control pills
- Diaphragms
- Condoms
- Coitus interruptus
- Spermicidal gel
- Vaginal ring
- Intrauterine devices
Of these methods, one of the most popular and common is the use of condoms. Condoms act as barrier devices; they are placed upon the erect penis before beginning sexual intercourse and block the entrance of ejaculated semen into the body of the partner.
Benefits
The benefits of condoms are:
- Easy to use
- Inexpensive
- Have a high success rate
- Have few side effects
- Offer protection against both sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy
Although condoms have been around for at least 400 years, they have greatly evolved during the past century.
In the modern era, condoms are most commonly made from latex, although some are made from materials such as polyurethane, polyisoprene, or lamb intestine. Female condoms are also available and are generally made of nirile. Most condoms are shaped with a reservoir tip or teat end to accommodate the ejaculated semen. Condoms vary in size (from extra-large to small) and come in a variety of surfaces. They usually are coated in a lubricant to facilitate the penetration into the partner. Some condoms intended for oral sex are flavored.
Condoms have one of the highest rates of success for a contraceptive, especially when coupled with an oral contraceptive such as birth control pills. Contingent upon both partners' knowledge, correct application technique, and use during every act of intercourse, women experience a 2% per-year pregnancy rate with perfect use and a 15% per-year pregnancy rate with typical use. Although use varies by country, Japan has one of the highest usage rates with almost 80% of married women citing condoms as their contraceptive of choice in 2008.
Controversy
Given the popularity and widespread use of condoms, some people and organizations have expressed disapproval because they oppose premarital sex and view condoms as a license to sin. One such institution is the Catholic Church, which adamantly opposes condoms (as well as other methods of birth control).
There has also been controversy generated over whether whether condoms should be included in sexual education classes taught in school. Despite studies that show that abstinence-only sex education classes lead to higher rates of pregnancy and sexual disease transmission, the debate continues.
There are many scientific organizations that are creating new and innovative forms of condoms. Scientists have invented a spray-on condom made of latex (which unfortunately is not going to market because it takes two to three minutes to be effective). Researchers in Canada developed an Invisible Condom which is a gel that hardens upon a change in temperature (which would occur after being inserted into the partner's vagina or rectum).
Using multiple birth control methods simultaneously is the best way to ensure against pregnancy or contracting STDs. But if you are caught up in the moment and do not have the opportunity to take an oral contraceptive or reach for the spermicide gel, grab a condom. When it comes to sex, use your condom sense! It is much better to be safe than sorry.
Thank you for reading.
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