Pros and Cons of Using Condoms: What You Need to Know

Buying a condom is not a taboo; in fact, it is strongly recommended to use the same for safety and pregnancy control reasons. We should be aware of the various pros and cons that comes with the use of condoms during sexual activities and not be misguided because of the various myths, misconceptions, rumours, half-truths that surrounds the use of condoms. For this, the ‘AIDS Healthcare Foundation’ established 13^th February as ‘International Condom Day’ to educate people to put an end to the stigma about condom and its uses, worldwide.

Condoms are highly effective in avoiding sexually transmitted diseases as well as pregnancies. If you follow the instructions and use condoms every time you take part in vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse, there is less risk of pregnancy or transmission of an STD. However, while it has many benefits, it also has considerable downsides.

PROS

• Ease of Use

The condoms are extremely user-friendly. It can be used by anyone, unlike other methods of contraception such as hormone injections or intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Condoms, on the other hand, can help you avoid unwanted pregnancies. However, there is a 15% chance of pregnancy for every one hundred couples that use condoms during sexual activity.

• STDs

One of the most effective and commonly employed methods for preventing sexually transmitted diseases is by using condoms.  This works by acting as a barrier between the male secretion and the female reproductive system.

The use of condoms has aided in decreasing the transmission of Herpes, human papillomavirus and other infections. But protection and prevention are not always guaranteed, owing to several reasons including sensitivity to the condom materials or breakage in condoms.

• Available Everywhere

Now-a-days you can pick up a condom at any store, from pharmacies to groceries, community health centres and online. They can be bought without a prescription or proof. They are low in cost and can be availed for free from health centres.

• Keep the Mood!

Yes, condoms never kill your mood. Both pleasure and protection are important. So, you can enjoy along with your partner without worrying about getting pregnant or contracting an STD.

Condoms are available in a variety of shapes, colours, materials, and even flavours to suit everyone’s needs. These also let you to practice oral, anal, and vaginal intercourse with your partner.

• No Fertility Changes

Blood clots, stroke, and other health problems have been linked to the use of hormonal contraceptives because they disrupt the body's normal hormonal balance. If condoms are used properly, they will have no negative effect on fertility and are completely safe. This indicates that the person will be able to conceive the next time they wish to have sex. Condoms are to be used only once and then disposed of in the trash.

CONS

• Latex Allergies

Regular condoms may not be suitable for people who are allergic to latex. Condoms made of polyurethane or lambskin can be used as an alternative to regular latex condoms. And these condoms (polyurethane or lambskin) cost more than latex condoms.

• Tear or Break

Condoms are susceptible to tearing, breaking, and slipping off if it is not used properly. Oil-based lubricants may cause latex condoms to become brittle and break. During the moment, a couple may not notice that their condom has torn. The study has reported that two out of one hundred condoms break.

• Even with Condom: STDs

No technique of contraception, including some forms of sterilisation, is 100% successful. Even with condom use, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy are possible. For this reason, many medical professionals recommend wearing condoms in conjunction with hormonal contraception to reduce your risk of getting STDs and getting pregnant.

The truth is that even though condoms can seem simple, getting used to them might take some time. If you are not sure what is best for you, consult with a specialist/doctor.