Pros and Cons of Protected Sex

Introduction

Protected sex is sexual intercourse with some method or use of devices to protect both partners against unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases and infections. This is a critical step while engaging in sex. If this step is skipped, it may result in poor sexual health outcomes related to HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) or AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency virus), sexually transmitted infection, unintended pregnancy, devastating family networks, and society. It is noteworthy to remember that sexually related problems affect both men and women.

What Are the Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) And Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) That Can Spread From Unprotected Sex?

STDs and STIs can spread from person to person through sexual contact. The STDs include the following diseases;

• Chlamydia.

• Genital herpes.

• Genital warts.

• Gonorrhea.

• Hepatitis.

• HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

• HPV (human papillomavirus).

• Syphilis.

This infection spreads by direct contact with the source of infection, which can be a rash, body fluids, the skin around the genital area, or the mouth.

What Are the Different Methods for Protection During Sex?

Safe sex means taking preventative steps before and during sex that can prevent you from an unplanned pregnancy and possible sexually transmitted infections. Various protection barriers are as follows;

• Barrier Methods:

They work by stopping the sperm from entering the vagina, including spermicide, male and female condoms, sponge, diaphragm, and cervical cap.

• Non-Barrier Methods:

They include intrauterine devices or systems, a hormonal method for contraception, female sterilization (tubal ligation, which is tying the fallopian tube), and male sterilization (vasectomy, which stops sperm from entering the penis).

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Condoms?

It is a must to wear a condom before the penis touches the vagina to ensure the best protection. In addition, the penis should not touch the vaginal area after removing the condom.

Advantages:

• Easy to buy as it is available at most department stores, medical stores, and online without a prescription.

• Easy to use.

• It is small and lightweight, making it easier to carry in a pocket.

• Does not interfere with average hormonal balances.

• Highly reliable when used correctly.

• It protects against most STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and STIs (sexually transmitted infections).

• Also may help to protect against cervical cancer.

Disadvantages:

• A condom can interrupt lovemaking as men must wear it carefully after getting an erection.

• Reduced sexual sensation on genitals.

• Because it is widely used as a protection, healthcare providers may mistakenly assume that everybody knows how to use it correctly and assume there is no need to provide detailed advice.

• The condom is not reusable.

• Using oil-based products for lubrication, such as baby massage oil, petroleum jelly, and suntan oil can damage the condom.

• When using a latex condom, the chances of having a latex allergy are there.

• Errors may happen, such as the condom may slip or break.

• Friction from the condom may reduce sexual enjoyment.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Spermicide?

Advantages:

• Easier to use and available in many stores.

• It costs less than other hormonal birth control methods except for condoms.

• Use of it does not affect natural hormonal balance.

• It does not affect the milk supply in breastfeeding women.

Disadvantages:

• Allergic reactions to spermicide may cause vaginal burning sensation and irritation.

• It does not protect against STDs and STIs.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Sponge Protection?

Advantages:

• It is readily available at many stores.

• It does not affect natural hormonal balance.

• Spong contains enough spermicide for effective use for 24 hours.

• Finally, it does not interfere with milk supply in breastfeeding women.

Disadvantages:

• Risk of getting toxic shock syndrome (an acute condition caused by bacterial infection).

• It cannot be used during the menstrual period or till six weeks after the delivery of a baby.

• Allergic reactions to a sponge can cause vaginal burning and irritation.

• It does not protect against STDs and STIs.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Diaphragm?

Advantages:

• Women can insert it before sexual intercourse.

• In addition, it does not interfere with milk supply or natural hormonal balance.

Disadvantages:

• Does not protect against STDs and STIs.

• Allergic reactions may occur in case of diaphragm use.

• Urinary tract infection may occur if the diaphragm is too large or too small.

• Toxic shock syndrome may occur in some females after using a diaphragm.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Cervical Cap?

Advantages:

• It does not interfere with milk supply and natural bodily hormonal balance.

• Women can keep it inserted up to 40 hours before sexual intercourse, and thus does not interfere with sexual activity.

Disadvantages

• The use of a cervical cap may cause vaginal irritation or foul odor.

• Women should not use it during menstruation to avoid toxic shock syndrome and the chance of infection.

• It does not protect against STDs and STIs.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Intrauterine Devices or Systems for Protection?

Advantages:

• It does not have any effect on hormonal balance.

• Furthermore, it protects from unplanned pregnancy till ten years.

Disadvantages:

• Cramps.

• Heavier period or intermittent period.

• Pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and uterine perforation may occur.

• Expulsion of the device may occur.

• Does not protect against STDs and STIs.

• The doctor has to insert the device.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Long-Acting Hormonal Methods Such as Contraceptive Injections?

Advantages:

• It can protect against pregnancy till three months.

• It is a one-time shot for three months.

Disadvantages:

• Costlier than the barrier method.

• It may interfere with natural hormonal balance.

• Adverse reactions such as loss of bone density, irregular bleeding, headache, weight gain, nervousness, dizziness, and abdominal discomfort may occur.

• It does not protect against STDs and STIs.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Short Acting Hormonal Methods Such as Contraceptive Pills and Hormone Patch?

Advantages:

• It is readily available at a medical store.

• It is a non-surgical method.

• Cost-effective.

Disadvantages:

• Missed pills may result in an unplanned pregnancy.

• Does not protect against STDs and STIs.

• Interfere with the natural hormonal balance of the body.

• Some adverse effects, such as headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, and irregular periods may occur.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Cervical Contraceptive Ring?

Advantages:

• Women can keep it inserted for three weeks so it does not interfere with sex.

• It does not affect natural hormones.

Disadvantages:

• It cannot be used during the menstrual period.

• It does not protect against STDs and STIs.

• Some adverse side effects may occur, such as headaches, irregular periods, nausea, and breast tenderness.

• Vaginal discharge, discomfort in the vagina, or vaginal irritation may occur.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Surgical Protective Methods Such as Vasectomy and Tubal Ligation?

Advantages:

• It provides permanent protection against unplanned pregnancy.

• It does not interfere with sex.

• It does not affect normal hormonal balance.

Disadvantages:

• Post-surgical complications such as pain, bleeding, and infection may occur.

• It is a surgical procedure, so it requires hospitalization.

• Costly as compared to barrier methods.

• It does not protect against STDs and STIs.

Conclusion

Protecting sexual and reproductive health is as important for overall well-being and health. Engaging in protected sex is one of the best safeguards for the body and ensures reproductive health. There are multiple ways for protected sexual intercourse. Therefore, weighing all the advantages and disadvantages before choosing a protection method is crucial. However, the choice remains solely on individual preference, convenience, and financial affordability.