Reducing Risks for STDs: Correct & Consistent Condom Use

Reducing Risks for Pregnancy and STIsAnalyzing Different Contraceptive MethodsContraceptive MethodsMale/female condomDouble DutchAbstinenceBirth control pillsIUD/IUSThe patchThe shotDiaphragmEmergency contraceptive pillsWithdrawalWhich method is the most effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs? 2nd most effective?

Which method is the least effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs?

AbstinenceMost effective method of preventing pregnancy and STIs when used consistentlyHave a back up method in case you get caught in the heat of the momentBenefit: can encourage people to build relationships in many ways other than sexDouble DutchUsing a condom and hormonal contraceptive together

Second most effective contraceptive method for preventing pregnancy and STIs

Both protect against pregnancy

Condoms protect against HIV and STIsClassifying Contraceptive MethodsBarrier Methods put up a block, or barrier, which keeps the sperm from reaching the egg

Hormonal Methods prevent pregnancy by interfering with ovulation, fertilization, and/or implantation of the fertilized egg

Implanted Devices inserted into the body and can be kept in place for a few years

Emergency Contraception should not be used as a regular form of birth controlBarrier Method: DiaphragmRequires an exam, a fitting, and a prescription from a doctorRequires the use of spermicidal gel94% effective in preventing pregnancy if used consistently and correctly

DiaphragmBenefits: Non-hormonal deviceCan be effective for up to 6 hrs after insertion

Disadvantages: No protection against HIVMinimal protection against gonorrhea and chlamydia (because of the cervical barrier)Increased risk of bladder irritation or infectionIncreased risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) if worn longer than 48 hrs

Barrier Method: CondomsWork by creating a barrier between mucous membrane and pathogen (STI)Very effective against several STIs; less effective (but still of value) against STIs transmitted by skin to skin contactMust be used correctly and consistently every time! Check the expiration dateStore in a cool, dry place

Effectiveness of CondomsMale Condoms 85-95% effective in preventing pregnancy depending on consistent and correct use

Female Condoms 79-95% effective in preventing pregnancy depending on consistent and correct use

Male/Female Condoms the only technology available to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV

Breakage Rate less than 2% in the U.S. due to incorrect use rather than to the condoms qualityCondom accessibilityWidely available, low or no costLocal health department or family planning clinicDrug stores and chain storesNo age restrictionBoth males and females can get condomsGet them before they are needed

How to use a condom

Open new condom package with hands (not scissors or teeth). There is a correct and an incorrect way to put on a condom. Check to see which direction the condom will roll before contacting the penis.

Roll the condom down to the base of the penis. Being sure to leave a reservoir at the tip (space must be left at the tip to hold the ejaculated semen). Pinch tip and roll out any air bubbles.

After ejaculation has occurred, unroll the condom. Then, be sure to hold the base of the penis (to prevent spilling of the semen, the condom must be held at the base while withdrawing from the partner's body). Throw used condom away.11Use assertive communicationPractice assertive communicationRespect yourself & othersBe a good listenerAttentive, responsiveUse confident body languageGood eye contactKeep body straight and hands at side or in lap

Remember that body language is more important than what you actually say!

Negotiating useThe GoalTo protect yourself and your partner from sexually transmitted diseases and/or pregnancyContentClear, specific, use words like "I feel, think, want"VoiceClear, even, dont hesitateFacial expressionGive direct eye contactPostureSelf-assuredYour feelingsConfident of your feelings and decisions, self-respectingAnothers feelingsRespectedAdapted from: Health Teacher. (1999). Communicating About Condoms.13Pressure & Negotiation examplesExcuse: Sex doesnt feel as good with a condom. Response: There is plenty of feeling left, and I would not feel safe without it.Excuse: Condoms are unnatural and turn me off.Response: There is nothing natural about getting a disease either. Excuse: Why do I need to use condoms if were using the pill.Response: So you can protect your health. The pill does not help prevent infection with STDs, including HIV, . . . but condoms do.Hormonal Method: Birth Control PillsWork by releasing hormones (estrogen and progestin), which stop your body from releasing an egg, so that there is no egg to be fertilizedAlso work by causing cervical mucus to thicken, which can stop sperm from getting into the uterus 99.7% effective in preventing pregnancy if taken every day and at the same time every dayCan be ineffective if taking anti-biotics Birth Control PillsBenefits:Regular and lighter periods with fewer crampsClearer complexion with some typesProtection against ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cysts, iron deficiencyBirth Control PillsDisadvantages:Does not protect you against HIV or STIsCigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effectsMay experience nausea, breast tenderness, or spotting between periods

*A change in pill prescription can help decrease side effectsHormonal Method: The PatchA thin, stick-on square patch that allows hormones to enter the bloodstream through the skinPlaced on either the abdomen, buttocks, lower back, upper outer arm, or upper torsoEffectiveness 99.7% effective in preventing pregnancy if used correctly (must be replaced on time)Cycle of Use 3 wks on, 1 wk off

The PatchBenefits:Only have to change it once a wk and can be worn in a different place each wkStays on while you shower, swim, bath, or exerciseWarm, humid conditions do not decrease its sticking powerCan see it dont have to worry about whether you took your pill or not

The PatchDisadvantages:Nausea, vaginal spotting and menstrual crampsSkin irritation under and around the patchWill not give you protection against HIV or STIsCigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects

Hormonal Method: The ShotDepo-Provera (Depo) injectable method of contraception given every 3 months/12wks/4 per yr (releases progestin) Effectiveness 99.7% effective in preventing pregnancy if you get your shot on timeThe ShotBenefits:You dont have to remember to take a pill every dayPrivate and convenientMay have very light bleeding or no periods and no cramps after several months of useLowers risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer, anemia, ectopic pregnancy, and pelvic infectionThe ShotDisadvantages:Irregular spotting or bleeding during the first 6 monthsIncreased appetite and slight weight gainMood changes, nausea, occasional heavy menstrual periodsLowers natural estrogen levels might decrease strength of bonesNo protection against HIV and STIs23Implanted Devices: Intrauterine Contraceptives (IUD & IUS)IUD Intrauterine device: a small plastic device wrapped with natural copperIUS Intrauterine System: a T-shaped plastic device that releases a low dose of progestinStops sperm from reaching the egg (stops fertilization)Effectiveness IUS = 98.9% effective; IUD = 98.4% effective IUD & IUSBenefits:Offer effective, long-term, private, reversible protection against pregnancyIUS can be left in for 5 yrs; IUD can be left in for 10 yrs

25IUD & IUSDisadvantages:Discomfort during insertionNo protection against HIV and STIsThe insertion process can introduce infection from the vagina into the uterus

Implanted Device: Implantable RodA thin, matchstick-sized rod that contains thehormone progestinIt is put under your skin on the inside of your upper armEffectiveness more than 99% effective

Implantable RodBenefits:Offer effective, long-term, private, reversible protection against pregnancyLasts up to 3 yrs

Implantable RodDisadvantages:May not work as well for overweight or obese womenDoes not protect against HIV and STIsAcneWeight gainCysts of the ovariesMood changes/depressionHair lossHeadache, upset stomach, dizzinessLower interest in sexual activitySore breasts, changes in your periods