Sexual health is an often-neglected aspect of general health. However, it’s vital to prioritize it in order to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Contraception plays a crucial role in family planning, reproductive health, and sexual wellness. Among different types of contraception, condoms are the most popular and widely used.

This article will explore the truth behind contraceptives and condoms, their effectiveness, and the common misconceptions surrounding them.

What are Contraceptives?

Contraceptives are medical devices, methods or drugs that help prevent unintended pregnancy. Different types of contraception work in different ways, such as by preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of the fertilized egg.

Some contraceptives, like condoms, also offer protection against STIs.

It’s important to choose a contraceptive that fits your lifestyle, needs, and preferences. Some of the most common types of contraceptives include:.

1. Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are a type of daily hormonal contraception that prevent ovulation and change the cervical mucus, making it harder for the sperm to reach the eggs.

The pill is 99% effective when taken as directed, and it’s reversible, meaning the fertility returns once you stop taking them. However, they do not offer protection against STIs.

2. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are implanted in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal.

Hormonal IUDs release progestin, which thickens cervical mucus and suppresses ovulation, while non-hormonal IUDs contain copper, which affects the sperm and prevents fertilization. They are over 99% effective and can last from 3 to 10 years depending on the type. They do not offer protection against STIs.

3. Condoms

Condoms are a type of barrier contraception that creates a physical barrier between the penis and the vagina, preventing the exchange of body fluids and direct skin-to-skin contact.

Condoms are over 98% effective when used properly, and they also offer protection against STIs. There are two types of condoms: male condoms and female condoms.

4. Birth Control Patch

The birth control patch is a transdermal patch that releases hormones into the bloodstream to prevent ovulation. The patch is worn on the skin and must be replaced every week for three weeks, followed by a week-long break without the patch.

The patch is more than 99% effective when used correctly, and it’s reversible. However, it does not offer protection against STIs.

5. Birth Control Shot

The birth control shot, also known as Depo-Provera, is a contraceptive injection that contains a progestin hormone that prevents ovulation. The shot is given every three months and is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

However, it does not offer protection against STIs.

6. Vaginal Ring

The vaginal ring is a small ring that is inserted into the vagina and releases hormones to prevent ovulation. It stays in place for three weeks, followed by a one-week break without the ring. The ring is over 99% effective and reversible.

However, it does not offer protection against STIs.

7. Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill, is a type of pill that can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of morning-after pills available: hormonal pills and copper IUDs.

They are over 99% effective and should only be used as a backup method of contraception.

8. Sterilization

Sterilization is a permanent form of contraception that involves either a surgical procedure or non-surgical procedure.

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the fallopian tubes, while vasectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens in men. Sterilization is over 99% effective and irreversible.

What are Condoms?

Condoms are a type of barrier contraception that prevent pregnancy by creating a physical barrier between the penis and the vagina. There are two types of condoms: male condoms and female condoms.

Male condoms are made of latex, polyurethane, or natural materials like sheepskin, while female condoms are made of polyurethane or nitrile.

Both types of condoms are over 98% effective when used properly, which means using them every time you have sex and following the instructions on the packaging.

Condoms are the most popular and easily accessible form of contraception, and they also offer protection against STIs.

Condoms work by preventing the exchange of bodily fluids and direct skin-to-skin contact during sex. They are also easy to use, require no prescription, and have no side effects.

Condoms are also an inexpensive form of contraception, with prices ranging from $0.20 to $2.00 per condom, depending on the brand and type.

The Common Misconceptions About Contraceptives and Condoms

Despite the effectiveness and benefits of contraceptives and condoms, there are still many misconceptions and myths surrounding them. Here are some of the most common misconceptions:.

1. Contraceptives Causes Infertility

This is a myth. Contraceptives do not cause infertility, and fertility usually returns within a few months after stopping the use of contraceptives.

However, some forms of contraception, such as certain types of long-acting reversible contraceptives, may delay the return of fertility for a longer period.

2. Condoms are Not Effective

This is a myth. Condoms are over 98% effective when used properly and are the only form of contraception that also offers protection against STIs.

However, the effectiveness of condoms may be reduced if they are not used properly or if they break or tear during sex.

3. Condoms Reduce Sexual Pleasure

This is a myth. Condoms can actually enhance sexual pleasure by reducing the risk of STIs and unwanted pregnancies.

There are also different types of condoms available with different textures, flavors, and sensitivity levels to suit individual preferences.

4. Contraceptives are Only a Woman’s Responsibility

This is a myth. Contraception is a shared responsibility between both partners, and men can also use different forms of contraception, such as condoms or vasectomy, to prevent unintended pregnancy.

Both partners should discuss and decide which form of contraception suits their needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Contraceptives and condoms are essential tools for family planning, reproductive health, and sexual wellness. Different forms of contraception are available to suit different needs and preferences, and it’s important to choose the right one for you.

Condoms are the most popular and widely used form of contraception that also offer protection against STIs. While there are many misconceptions and myths surrounding contraceptives and condoms, it’s important to educate ourselves and make informed decisions about our sexual health.