Love is in the air... February 14th is National Condom Day
The humble condom doesn’t look like much but it can protect both you and your partner from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Why not celebrate National Condom Day this year by deciding to use condoms every time you have intercourse? Here is some information to get you talking and keep you informed...
Condoms work
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The best way to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, is to refrain from sexual intercourse.
For people who are sexually active, the correct and consistent use of condoms is highly effective in preventing transmission of HIV1. Condoms also reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, chancroid, trichomoniasis, HPV, herpes, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). They can also protect against vaginitis caused by trichomoniasis or changes in the pH balance of the vagina that can be triggered by semen2. Condom use has been associated with a lower rate of cervical cancer, an HPV-associated disease1.
Condoms are effective because they prevent contact with body fluids that cause pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection.
Most reports of condom failure are the result of inconsistent or incorrect use3. Recent studies have shown that condom use errors and misconceptions about correct condom use may contribute to condom failure4,5. To protect against HIV, STIs and unintended pregnancy, a condom must be used during every act of intercourse, from start to finish. This includes penile-vaginal intercourse as well as oral and anal intercourse6.
Read the Truth About Condoms from the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. |
Hoosiers Support Condom Education
When asked if Indiana public high schools should educate teenagers about how to use condoms to prevent the spread of HIV, almost eight out of 10 (77 percent) Hoosiers say "yes." Read more about the Indiana University study that showed that Hoosiers agree that medically accurate information about condoms should be taught in classrooms.
Now that we've got your attention, read on for additional condom facts and resources . . .
There are different types of condoms
Apart from a dazzling array of colors, textures and flavors, both male and female condoms are available. Polyurethane condoms can often be used by people with latex allergies.
Condoms make you more attractive
Smart men and women who know how to care for themselves, and their partner, carry and use condoms every time. What could be more attractive than that?
Condoms aren't a new idea
Ancient Egyptians used a linen sheath to protect against disease but the oldest condoms ever found were discovered in England and dated back to 1640. Earlier condoms were typically made of animal intestine until 1844, when “rubbers” began to be mass-produced, and it was during the 1930s that latex condoms similar to those used today began to be manufactured7.
Condoms can be found at a location near you
Condoms are a method of birth control that available from numerous locations – drug stores, health centers, some supermarkets and vending machines. They each cost about 50¢, or less. Female condoms cost about $2.50.
Some family planning centers give condoms away or charge very little. Call your local Planned Parenthood at 800-230-PLAN to find out more.
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