“Protection” is such a vague term whenever we talk about it in the context of our sex life. We often overlook the importance of it. However, any time is a good time to consider why we need it and why it’s essential.

What is protection?

People talk of it often, but what is protection really? Protection is having safe sex. Most of the time, people think that safe sex is having sex with just one partner who only has sex with you and neither of you have STI (sexually transmitted infection). But it’s not just exclusive to that. Having safe sex is making sure that you use protection everytime you engage in sexual intercourse regardless.

Girl on Girl STI

Photo by Sasin Tipchai from Pixabay

Why do we need protection?

Because it lowers the risk of STI.

When used properly, the risk of contracting and transmitting STIs are far lower. STIs are passed through sexual fluids and condoms are a great barrier method that reduces the chances of swapping said fluids. Consistent and correct use of condoms reduces the risk of STD (sexually transmitted disease) and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) transmission1.

Because it lowers the risk of pregnancy.

If you use condoms properly everytime you have sex, condoms are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.2 Amazing right? It’s just fun all around!

Because it serves as a back-up to another form of birth control.

Most people use condoms in parallel with another type of birth control like pills or IUDs. So in the event that you missed out on your pill, you have another layer of protection. Wink.

Busting condom myths 101

Condoms are not everyone’s favorite. Some choose not to use one because they don’t like how it feels. Some choose not to use one just because they didn’t like the rumors surrounding condoms.

Let’s bust myths about condoms together.

Myth #1: You feel less with a condom on.

Condoms don’t take away your sensitivity. Some condoms even maximize that skin-on-skin feeling thereby giving you maximum pleasure and intimacy like Durex Invisible Extra Thin Condom.

Myth #2: Condoms aren’t sexy.

According to a regional study done by Durex, 80% of Filipinas actually think that using condoms is more pleasurable as it makes them feel more protected. Safety is the new sexy! . If you want to spice things up, engage in foreplay before doing the deed. For more foreplay tips, read here.

Girl on Girl STI

Photo by Deon Black from Pexels

Myth #3: “Don’t they break easily?”

Not really, especially when used properly. There’s a step-by-step direction you need to follow to make sure that you are using the condom properly. You also have to make sure that your condoms don’t come in contact with anything sharp like jewelry, long nails, or teeth. Save the kinky stuff for later.

Myth #4: “We’ll just do oral stuff, no need for condoms.”

There’s still a range of STI that can be transmitted from person to person through oral sex like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and herpes. You might want to consider using Durex flavored condoms like Durex Naughty Chocolate Condom or Durex Sensual Strawberry Condom. Make oral sex even more delicious. (Wink! Wink!)

Myth #5: Ugh, condoms are uncomfortable.

It doesn’t have to be. Choose the right condom product for you. Double check its ingredients. Consider adding lube if you’re feeling dry like Durex Play Feel Lube. Using lubes help increase pleasure and decrease discomfort.

There’s nothing sexier than feeling protected and safe. 80% of Pinays think sex with a condom is more pleasurable3 because it makes them feel more protected. It’s high time to consider investing in protection. With Durex, there’s always the right product for you — whether you’re up for something more invisible, more naughty, more sensual, or more flavorful. Shop our products now on Shopee and Lazada.

References:

  1. Condom Effectiveness, available at https://www.cdc.gov/condomeffectiveness/brief.html. Accessed on 05 December 2022.
  2. How Effective are Condoms, available at https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/condom/how-effective-are-condoms#:~:text=But%20people%20aren't%20perfect,the%20better%20they'll%20work. Access on 05 December 2022.
  3. Durex Regional Study. Data on Filipino Women, 18-34 years old.