Safe Sex 101
Abstinence:
This is the most obvious choice. It is 100% foolproof. Abstinence means that you’ve made the decision to not be sexually active. This decision is promise that you make to yourself and as I’ve stated before, is the only way you’re 100% safe from unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. Many people wait until marriage, some wait until they’re in committed relationships, and some make the decision to stay celibate long term. This is up to you. Of course, there are other options, too.
Condoms:
For years condoms have been important parts of our sexual lives. That’s a very good thing. There are a lot of people not using protection, but luckily a lot more are. A condom is a latex “skin” that goes on to an erect penis. This “skin” protects both partners from contracting diseases and also catching the males sperm preventing pregnancy if worn and used correctly. It’s very important that when using condoms you take note of the expiration dates and use them only one time per condom. They are highly disposable and usually come in packs of more than one, so there is no excuse to reuse one. It’s not safe.
Another type of condom, that is very new, is the female condom. This contraceptive is also known as the vaginal pouch. It protects against pregnancy and diseases by lining the vaginal walls. You insert it with your fingers. You’ll know its in properly in when it’s past the pubic bone. After that, you push the ring up into the vaginal area. This puts the female in more control of her health and a man doesn’t have to pull out immediately after orgasm. That’s a definite plus.
Birth Control:
A new form of birth control that is said to be most effective is Norplant. Six match stick sized implants are inserted into the skin of the woman’s inner arm. They release a low dosage of a synthetic hormone that inhibits ovulation. This type of birth control works for five years. No pills are involved, making it easier and more dependable.
Depro-Provera is another form of birth control that is highly effective. It’s a shot of progestin that must be given every three months. It prevents ovulation and changes the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. If taken for a long time, this shot could eliminate periods. There are possible side effects that include pregnancy symptoms, weight changes, and depression. If deciding to become pregnant, it takes an average of 9-10 months from the last shot before being able to become pregnant.
Most commonly used is “The Pill”. This is a pill that is taken daily. It contains synthetic hormones that work to prevent the release of the egg from the ovary. Like other versions of birth control these pills thicken cervical mucous. This pill must be taken daily at the same time for it to work effectively. If a woman has a history of high blood pressure, heart disease, blood clots in the legs or lungs, angina pectoris, tumors in the breast or sex organs, or undiagnosed vaginal bleeding – it’s best that they not use oral contraceptives.
Spermicidal: These following methods should be used with a diaphragm or condom. These methods include creams, jellies, film,�¯�¿�½ foam, sponge, and suppositories. It is best to use a condom or diaphragm with either spermicidal method that is chosen.
Lastly,Ã?¯Ã?¿Ã?½ I would like to touch on the morning-after pill. This is just incase of being caught up in the heat of the moment, rape, or a broken condom. Though it’s preferred that they be taken less than 24 hours after unprotected sex, you can do it up to 72 hours after. The pills prevent implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. Before taking the pills, it’s advised to take a pregnancy test to insure you’re not already pregnant. The pills could cause harm to the fetus if so. I hope that this gives you good information and is helpful when deciding what’s best for you when it comes to safer sex.
