Avoid a sticky situation this Valentines Day
People find lots of excuses not to use condoms, and being in a relationship is one we hear a lot.
Most people know that condoms should be worn by everyone who wants to enjoy sex without the risk of an unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections(STI).
Despite this, the lines around condom use can become blurred, especially for long-term couples in love.
With Valentines approaching and love in the air, it’s an important time to consider the options and negotiate safely, to avoid what can be for many a sticky situation.
This is according to Head of Communications Pales Khambi at Marie Stopes clinic who says that a household survey released in 2012 and published in 2013 led by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) revealed that that condom usage amongst South Africans of all ages is sadly on the decline.
“People find lots of excuses not to use condoms, and being in a relationship is one we hear a lot
“Being in a relationship is not a good enough reason to stop using condoms.
“Let’s be real, cheating happens and mistakes are made, says Khambi.
She advises that getting serious about someone and showing you care doesn’t have to mean losing the latex.
“South Africa has one of the highest prevalence rates of HIV in the world, and STIs such as gonorrhea, genital herpes, and syphilis are also common.
“Many of these diseases show few symptoms in the beginning, and may even lie dormant for years,
“That means that even the most considerate and faithful partner could be holding on to an infection from a previous partner.
“The old saying that when you sleep with someone you’re “having sex with everyone they’ve ever had sex with”might seem gross but it’s true,” says Khambi.
She adds that the importance of using condoms is even stronger when one considers that over half of South African pregnancies that are reported as unplanned and half of those as unwanted.
“Condoms are the only contraceptives that can be used in conjunction with other methods like the pill, loop and injectable for dual protection against pregnancy as well as HIV and STIs.
“The key to keeping condoms in the mix of the sex life for many couples is recognizing what they can do for you as a couple and that is to keep you safe,” says Khambi.
