So why aren’t people wearing condoms anymore?
It is thought this can be down to a number of things. Allergic reactions – some people are allergic to the chemicals used in condoms but with latex free options and even vegan condoms available there really is no reason to risk it all for one night of passion. Embarrassment – we’ve all been there, when we first become sexually active we think and feel everyone is staring at us when we purchase condoms, this could also be down to finances. Some people aren’t embarrassed to purchase condoms they simply can’t afford them – most sexual health clinics will provide free contraceptives so if this is the case, book an appointment. Don’t take the risk, it’s really not worth it. Lastly but not least, porn. Yes, porn… with the wide availability or porn within the mainstream it seems more and more young people are re-enacting what they see on the screen and risking it all by practising the “pull out method” to read more about this worrying phenomena click here.
What is the worst that can happen?
STDs and STIs
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Both are generally acquired and known as sexual diseases. The most important fact is that infections can be also transmitted through no sexual contact! For example it can be transmitted from mother to baby while woman is pregnant, blood transfusions or people who have shared needles. You need to be aware that people who are your friends and seem to be healthy can also have a disease you are not aware of
What are the symptoms of STDs or STIs?
Problems with the genitals and also around the oral or rectal area, feeling pain while urinating, problems with the penis, weird vaginal smell or bleeding, painful sex, lower abdominal pain and even a fever. When you feel ill or have some of these symptoms you have to contact the doctor, it is time for a check up!
What are the causes?
It can be bacteria (gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia), parasites (trichomonas’s), viruses (human papillomavirus, genital herpes, HIV).
What are the risk factors?
Anyone who has any form of sexual contact is exposed to the risk of getting a STD or STI.
• Using NO protection….nowadays everybody should use at least a condom! This is the best form of protection and let’s be clear this is not only for vaginal sex but also anal and oral sex as it can be dangerous and transmit sexual diseases.
• Having sex with multiple partners. Consider the fact that the person you are sleeping with may also have multiple sexual partners they are actively engaging with.
• Parties with alcohol or drugs. Your judgement is not clear and you are more likely to participate in sex with a stranger, inhibitions are lowered, the drinks are flowing everyone is having a good time – you know the rest.
How can I prevent this?
First of all, you have to go to your doctor or sexual health clinic and discuss the symptoms. To avoid the embarrassing scenario you are playing out in your head – use a condom!
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
It is a human immunodeficiency virus. HIV damages the immune system and your body is not able to fight off infections. Your body starts to become fragile and very. It can be also transmitted by infected blood or from mother to child during pregnancy, tattooing, piercing, childbirth or breast-feeding. If you take medication, you will feel better and extend the duration of your life.
Symptoms
Primary infection
A month or two after the virus, you will feel like having flu (this last for about couple of weeks). You can also suffer a headache, muscle pain, joint pain and problems with your mouth. The sad thing is that usually we do not even notice those symptoms and assume that it is something harmless like a common cold.
Clinical latent infection
Also called Chronic HIV. Symptoms are persistent, you will have swelling of lymph nodes during this stage and HIV will affect your blood cells. Unfortunately, there are no specific signs and symptoms. If you do not take any medication, this stage can last up to 10 years or even more.
Symptomatic HIV infection
While HIV destroys your body and immunological system, you may catch more infections or chronic signs and symptoms like diarrhoea, weight loss, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, feeling depressed, thrush, herpes zoster. Fortunately, nowadays, people have antiviral treatments and do not progress into AIDS. If a person does not have any medication, HIV turns into AIDS in around 10 years.
AIDS damages your immune system. Even a slight fever can be even dangerous to you. Symptoms like night sweat, fever, cold, flu, diarrhoea, spots, fatigue, weight loss, bumps will become prevalent.
Unwanted Pregnancy
An unwanted pregnancy can turn your world upside down. Whilst becoming pregnant is supposed to be a magical time full of promise and hope an unwanted pregnancy particularly between two people who don’t want children together can put huge amounts of stress onto both parties. The time and financial implications plus the gravity of the situation could have a disastrous effect on someone’s mental health. If you are not ready to have children or are not actively trying to conceive with your partner – please be responsible and protect yourself.
To sum up, use a condom and protect yourself no matter what, No amount of pleasure is worth risking your health for.
