Facts and myths about the two popular birth control options for teens.
The two most popular forms of birth control for teens are the pill and condoms. While far too many teens use no protection at all, when protection is used it is most likely to be one of the two. Because these options are so popular it is important that teens know the facts. Here we list the most common facts and most accepted myths about these two forms of birth control.
CONDOMS
Facts
- Aside from not having sex at all, condoms are the most effective protection against pregnancy AND STDs.
- Condoms should only be used as directed on the package. NEVER double up on condoms (use two or more at a time), this will increase the chance that the condom will break.
- Condoms with spermicide offer LESS protection against AIDS but MORE protection against unwanted pregnancy.
- Condom users and/or their partners are less likely to get gonorrhea, ureaplasma infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, and cervical cancer.
- You should NEVER use an oil based lubricant (baby oil, cold cream, vaseline, hand cream or any cooking oil) with a condom since it can cause the latex to break.
- Condoms should never be stored in your wallet or any other small and warm space for more than 24 hours. They should be stored in a dry and cool place.
- Only water based lubricants should be used with condoms, oil based lubricants can cause the condon to break.
- You need to put on a new condom each time there is ejaculation.
- You must use condoms with oral and anal sex to protect against STDs even though pregnancy is not a concern.
- Novelty condoms, like glow in the dark, colored or flavored condoms do not generally offer protection against pregnancy or STDs. Read the lable to be sure.
Myths
- Only one condom should be used at a time, using multiple condoms increase the chance that the condom will break.
- Condomes do offer some decreased sensitivity for guys but they do not mean that there is no sensation and for some guys condoms actually help with premature ejaculation.
- You do not need a prescription for condoms and they can be bought almost anywhere.
- With very few exceptions condoms are one size fits all, there are not many guys who are too large or too small for the average condom.