Condoms are a girl's (and guy's!) best friend

Contraceptives come in a variety of forms that are adaptable to a person’s medical history, lifestyle and personal preferences. Condoms, in particular, provide their users with a host of benefits including reduced risk of pregnancy, protection from STI’s and HIV/AIDS.

Unlike many other types of contraceptives, they are generally accessible without a prescription, are extremely portable and only require to be used at the time of a sexual interaction (unlike hormone regulating contraceptives that need to be taken daily, monthly etc.)

Condoms are visible to both partners, which allow both parties a sense of security and control in reducing risk associated with sex. In this way, the responsibility of safe sex becomes a mutual agreement and a shared act – opposed to putting the onus of protected sex on solely one of the partners. This is an important component of sexual education, and empowerment amongst both males and females. Reducing the likelihood of transmission of STI’s, HIV/AIDS, or unwanted pregnancy should never be seen as solely a ‘male’ or ‘female’ problem. A sense of transparency within a sexual relationship enables both partners to work towards equality within their sexual relationship. Additionally, using a visible contraceptive can spur discussion between partners and help to reduce stigma associated with condom use.

Despite the potential for the use of condoms to improve both the health and decision making power of both parties involved in a sexual relationship – we must recognize that gender rojavascript:void(0)les, cultural norms and poverty all impact an individual’s ability to make choices and to act on those choices. It is for these reasons that access to reproductive and sexual education and contraceptives is so important. By encouraging discussion around contraceptive use we can start to bring the barriers to safe sex to light