Thinking of ditching the condom? 7 things you should know about unprotected sex

Do you practice safe sex?  Condoms are more than just a wallet accessory; they are our best choice for protection against protection from STIs. They are easily accessible and would save us a trip to the doctor or stuffing up on emergency contraceptive pills. Most couples in monogamous relationships use condoms at the beginning of their relationship but after dating for a while their love for condom wanes. These couples may decide to ditch the condom to opt for raw sex instead. This may because they feel more secure in their relationships and feel that condoms do not communicate that.

In most cases, condoms are seen as a protective measure for the probationary part of the relationship and after trust is built, condoms can be ditched. Or another birth control method is chosen instead. There are so many risks involved with ditching the condom and choosing an alternative birth control method especially without having proper knowledge.

Are you or your partner thinking of ditching the condoms?

Here are 7 things you should know before ditching the condom.

1. Some STIs have no physical symptoms

STIs are extremely common and half of the persons who have STIs do not know they do. It is possible to have an STI that doesn’t show any symptom for days, months or even years, and untreated can cause significant health issues.Being sexually active puts you at a risk of STIs. Experts believe that nearly everyone’s who is sexually active will get human papillomavirus (HPV).

Just like STIs can stay in the body for a long time, the same way it’s possible not to know if your partner has an STI. You cannot know by looking at their genitals or their face. The only way to know their sexual status is by getting tested. The risk of STIs is higher when you ditch safe sex and decide to toss the condom. 

2. STIs increases the chance of contracting HIV

People living with STIs have a greater chance of contracting HIV. Living with STIs like syphilis, herpes and gonorrhoea increases the chances of contracting HIV.

STIs expose the body to other infections. They cause sores on the body that make it easier for HIV to enter the bloodstream.

3. Know your STI screening basics

If you are sexually active and have had vaginal, oral, or anal sex without a condom (or has shared a needle or clipper) puts you at the risk of a STI. While safe sex is advisable, condoms do not necessarily protect you from all forms of STI. Knowing the STI you could get screened for depends on your age, sex and your sexual history. Test for HIV at least once a year and test more regularly if you test positive for another STI, have had more than one sexual partner or your partner has after your last test.

Every sexually active woman age 25 and above should get screened annually for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea at least once a year. However, these are not the only STIs you can get screened for. You want to also consider STIs like syphilis, hepatitis and genital herpes. Educate yourself on the numerous options available and talk to your healthcare provider what is recommended for you.

READ- WHY HERPES IS DEADLIER THAN YOU THINK

4. Talk about ditching the condom

After testing and discussion of the results with your partner, you want to have the talk. Before ditching the condoms, you have to be sure you are your partner’s only sex partner and they are committed to you. Whether you choose to be monogamous or not, you want to be sure your partner would not put you at risk with their sexual practices.

If you find yourself holding back on communicating with your partner and bringing up the topic, it may just mean that you are not comfortable enough with your partner. You don’t want to be having unprotected sex with a person you find it difficult having the relationship conversation with.  The best sexual experience happens when you trust your partner. So before you decide to ditch the condom and toss safe sex out of the window, ask yourself if your partner cares well-enough your sexual well-being.

5. Be sure that is what you want

Is this what you want? Deciding to ditch the condom is a big decision to make, it’s you saying I am ready for the worst but I trust you to give me the best. You have to make sure you are doing this for you and not because you feel pressured. I understand that when you like someone you want to do things that make them happy. But while at it, remember that doing things to please your partner without looking out for your own health and needs at your own detriment can backfire. And when it does will leave you feeling resentful of your partner and unhappy in the long run.

Having sex without a condom poses a big risk. But you want to make sure this risk was chosen because you want to and not to make your partner feel more connected to you.

6. Choose a new method of contraception

If condoms have been your main source of contraception, then you’ll want to find a new form of contraception before you ditch the condoms.You don’t want to rely on the pulling out method. Women trying to prevent pregnancy have to plan ahead of time. Opt for alternative birth control methods other than the 72 hour emergency pills. Choose a birth control method that works well for you and plan your birth control usage before sex. Just because you are chosen a new method of contraception, doesn’t mean you have to completely toss out your condom. For unplanned pregnancy, it’s best to mix your methods.

7. Don’t ditch the condom

One reason condoms are so unpopular among couples is because they feel that condoms are a barrier to intimacy. But, it’s still possible to have pleasurable and intimate sex with your partner even with a condom.  One way to do this is by adding lots of lubes when having sex. Pour lubes in the condom before wearing to keep the tip full and aroused. Opt for water based lubes for the best effect with latex condoms. Condoms do not affect arousal or pleasure and no significant difference was found that showed that condoms affect men’s ability to maintain an erection.

Opting for safe sex means you care about your health and that of your partner. Practice safe sex today. Join Switch by Mahogany, the first online BDSM community in Nigeria. Connect with other kinksters like you in a discreet and safe environment. Switch today!