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Birth Control is a Rubbery Affair

By: EMMANUEL CHAVEZ

Birth control is one of the biggest concerns among many married couples and sexually active people. An unexpected pregnancy could have an enormous impact on one's health, personal relationships, career, and finances.

The need for effective and easy birth control methods has been met by many pharmaceutical companies and firms that have created a niché in the sexual health industry. In fact, the production of prophylactic latex and polyurethane condoms have been a “cash cow” for these businesses. The male condom is probably the most widely used birth control method or product today. Aside from pregnancy prevention, male condoms are also used to deter the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Male condoms, also called “rubber,” is a thin sheath usually made of latex or polyurethane. The condom has actually been in used for centuries. The ancient versions of the condom were made from animal membrane or intestines. In ancient Japan, it was even reported that certain kinds of smooth, conical shells and leather pouches were used as condoms. The modern-day condom is word over the penis to prevent the flow of semen into the vagina. It can also prevent men from acquiring unwanted sex-related diseases by shielding the penis from an infected partner's secretions. Although it may lessen the sensation of the sexual act, condoms can make sex relatively safe. This kind of product is also more affordable compared with other birth control medications, implants, and gadgets. Condoms can also be easily purchased in pharmacies and other stores.

Some condoms are treated with spermicide to give additional protection against pregnancy once it breaks. These treated condoms contain the spermicide called nonoxynol-9 (N9). Men, however, are being cautioned about the use of the condom because some may have a negative reaction to the chemicals. The spermicide can cause some men and women to have allergies. Chemicals in the condom could also possibly cause urinary tract infection by eliminating some of the beneficial bacteria in the vagina.

Another concern about the use of condoms is the possibility of breaking, which could lead to unintended pregnancy. These are some of the things that can be done to prevent condoms from breaking:

Don't use any condom that's been previously opened or unrolled.
Keep condoms well-lubricated, but use only water-based lubricants. Oil-based lubricants, such as Vaseline, baby oil, mineral oil, body lotion, or vegetable oil can weaken latex rubber almost instantly and cause it to erode. Even foods like whipped cream contain oil and can damage a condom.
Store your condoms in a cool, dry place. Don't keep them in your wallet, glove compartment, or bathroom, where heat and humidity can cause the material to deteriorate. And don't use a condom if it looks discolored, sticky, brittle, or stiff, or if the expiration date has passed.

With proper use, condoms may effectively prevent pregnancy. If a condom breaks, using emergency contraception pills can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89 percent. Contraceptive pills should be taken as soon as possible but not more than three days after unprotected sex or in cases of condom leakage. The pills may prevent pregnancy by temporarily blocking ovulation, interfering with fertilization, or thinning the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from being implanted there. However, emergency pills should only be taken as a backup of another birth control method. Frequent use of this drug may lead to the development of unwanted side effects.

Indeed, there is no 100% perfect and fail-safe birth control method. But with the right information and attitude, birth control methods can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and curtail the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

Article Source: http://00articles.com

Emmanuel Chavez is a sports writer and holds a graduate degree in Sports Nutrition. He is active in promoting weight loss programs and healthy lifestyle among inner city youth. Want receive Updates regarding our Products,Promos and Freebies visit Free NewsletterSubcribe us at our Weekly Newsletter and you will receive updates Online Drug Store


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