Recent global studies on STDs have found that in many parts globally, especially the US and UK, STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, are on the rise and are declared to be getting out of control.
It seems that despite the plethora of widely available information and screening services, they are not doing much to boost reproductive health and get people to practise safe sex. Further studies have shown that condom use has also been declining. In fact, over the years, it has been found to be decreasing exponentially.
Lesser men are using condoms, especially the younger generation
US research was among the first to ring this alarm, suggesting that barrier contraceptives are beginning to lose their popularity. Studies in 2011 found that 75 per cent of men use condoms as their primary contraceptive method. However, that number dropped to a drastic 42 per cent in 2021. Chances are that number has dropped even further today.
Today, people are exposed to more medical options than before for preventing unwanted pregnancies and reducing the risk of getting STDs, such as HIV. With advances in medical developments, options such as HIV PEP and HIV PrEP have delivered a sense of security that might be the reason why people do not rely on condoms.
Due to some medical advances, the use of condoms has also dropped among individuals considered to be a higher risk, such as men who have sexual intercourse with men.
The new realities of preventing STDs
HIV PEPs and HIV PrEPs are effective at reducing the risk of HIV infection significantly, even after unprotected exposure to the virus. They are so effective that HIV-positive individuals can suppress the virus entirely after getting them. This means that as long as the individual takes their medication diligently, they are able to achieve a non-detectable status, thus, are not able to transmit the virus to their sexual partner.
With that being said, reducing the risk of transmitting HIV does not mean the reduction of transmitting other STDs when not using condoms. Hence, the evidence of the rise in syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia globally.
Most individuals assume that just because these STDs are treatable, they are not as scary. However, what many do not realise is that while they are indeed treatable, many of these infections are undetectable until related signs and symptoms surface. By then, it might be too late and can result in irreversible damage, such as infertility.
What individuals say about using condoms
There are also other factors and reasons for the drop in condom use. Some blame the inconsistency in sex education, while others state that their conservative upbringing did not raise the topic of sex, thus leading to the making of poor decisions.
However, one of the most common reasons why people prefer not to use a condom is that sex feels better without it. In fact, many women choose not to use them despite knowing the consequences in fear of turning their partner off.
Conclusion
It is vital to stand your ground, men or women. Everybody has the responsibility to take care of their sexual health. If your partner is reluctant to practise safe sex, then a thorough conversation is necessary before taking the next step in your relationship. Unless you are planning to get pregnant, even those who go for regular STD tests should continue to practise safe sex. In fact, many STD clinics, including Elyon Clinic, recommend using products, such as oral contraceptives, on top of condoms for additional protection.
Do you still have further questions about your sexual health, STDs, and condoms? Do not hesitate to reach us at https://elyonclinic.com.sg/. We provide a wide range of sexual health services, and our team of experienced professionals will answer any queries you may have, helping you take charge of your sexual well-being.
