How often do you use condoms? Here’s why it should be every time.

14 February 2019

Condoms are highly effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

If used consistently and correctly, condoms are 98% effective in protecting against infections like HIV, gonorrhoea and other STIs. They are a contraceptive and double up as prevention from STIs. Even when you already use other forms of contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy, it is good idea to use condoms every time you have sex.

Condoms are cost effective and convenient

They are super accessible and available in many neighbourhood stores, heath centres and online stores. You generally do not need a prescription or identity document to buy them, although a few countries may require parental consent for young people. Besides being inexpensive and mostly free, condoms are small, discreet and portable way to get protection from pregnancy and STIS.

Condoms prevent unintended pregnancies

No birth control method is 100% effective. Methods like pills, rings, implants, shots and intrauterine devices can be doubled up with condoms to prevent pregnancy.

Condoms have no side effects

Most people can use condoms with no side effects at all—meaning safe and pleasurable sex, with no stress of STIs, pregnancy and side effects.

Rarely, latex (rubber) condoms can cause irritation for people with latex allergies. Lubricant can sometimes be irritating on certain types of condoms. If you are allergic to latex try different brands of condoms or switch to plastic condoms. They can be found in the same places where latex condoms are found.

Lastly

Never use male condom and female condom together. There is no need to wear more than one condom at a time. One is enough and safer.