Posted on 20.9.2020
While contraceptive options and access have expanded for women globally during the past few decades, not all New Zealand women are reaping the benefits. A Growing Up New Zealand study found that about 40% of pregnancies are unplanned, and a more recent analysis suggests the figure is closer to 50%. While declining, New Zealand still has high rates of teenage pregnancy compared to other OECD countries. Barriers to effective contraception are amplified for Māori and Pasifika women, young women and women on a low income, who already experience barriers to primary care services.
Condoms are a popular choice to prevent pregnancy and STIs
One of the most popular forms of contraception, condoms are a simple and cheap way to protect yourself against unplanned pregnancies and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections). Condoms work by catching the sperm as it is released and stopping it from entering the vagina at all. Condoms are highly effective at preventing both unwanted pregnancy and STIs, provided they are used correctly and every time you have sex.
Using a condom is easy
Using a condom is easy; tear open the package the condom comes in and be careful not to tear the condom in the process. Hold the tip between two fingers, then unroll the condom onto an erect penis right before sex and there you go.
Once it’s all over and the condom has done its job, pull it out before the penis softens. Hold it against the base of the penis as soon as ejaculation has occurred to ensure the condom doesn’t slip off and to prevent any sperm from escaping as the penis is withdrawn. Use condoms only once and then throw them away.
It is important to wear the correct size condom to ensure the condom doesn’t tear or slip off while you’re having sex. Most condoms for sale at New Zealand and Australian supermarkets and pharmacies are only 52-56 mm width, while international studies show the average erect penis girth is 58 mm. To find your perfect condom size, order a MY.SIZE test pack right here. Each pack comes with a FREE MY.SIZE measuring tape to help you find your perfect condom size.
If using lube, make sure it’s suitable to use with the material the condom is made of. For example, using oil-based lube on latex condoms can cause the condom to break or slip off.
Pros and cons of using condoms for contraception
Let’s start with the downsides; using a condom interrupts sex, they can tear or come off during sex if not used properly, and using condoms may lead to irritation or allergic reactions.
On the upside; condoms are the only contraceptive method that also provides STI protection, they can be easily carried with you and used on demand. Condoms are not affected by medication use and are safe to use when breastfeeding. They are hormone free, easy to use and protect against HIV/AIDS and STIs.
Overall, there are more reasons to use a condom than not. Provided you use a condom correctly and every time you have sex, they provide excellent protection against unwanted pregnancy and STIs.
Find you perfect fitting condom right here https://www.icopona.nz/products/condoms/
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