CREDIT: CANDIS BROSS
It's a good idea to use two different forms of contraceptives in case one fails.

For years, we have been taught that being safe while being intimate will prevent pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. But there is a bigger responsibility that falls on a person using contraceptives.

Josh Poynter, a public health nurse with the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s sexual health promotion team, says it is important to keep current on what products are available.

“It is your raincoat,” Poynter said. “It is your barrier against fluids getting to you and leaving you.”

However, being safe is a trust that a person puts into the contraceptive that he or she chooses to use. People can choose between male and female condoms, sponges, diaphragms, birth control and the Intrauterine device or system.

“Technology has come a long way. It is important for people to know the effectiveness of the contraceptive that they chose,” Poynter states. “Sponges and diaphragms are approximately 60 to 70 per cent effective while condoms work 85 per cent of the time with typical use – such as using lubricant – but work 98 per cent of the time with ‘perfect’ use.”

“This can make a big difference in the person’s decision.”

Consequences of using a specific contraceptive are not limited to effectiveness. Some products can have health risks that may not ruin the moment but could ruin any in the future.

“Spermicide is known to be an effective way to make sure all semen is eliminated after sexual activity, but consistent use of the product causes it to become a skin irritant,” Poynter said. “It can break the skin, which allows for a person to acquire infections with more ease.”

“It is not a huge risk and you would have to use lots of spermicide in order for it to be a problem.”

Another consequence of using contraceptives such as sponges and diaphragms for women is Toxic Shock Syndrome.

“That is a problem that arises when things are left inside for too long,” Poynter said. “Bacteria is able to grow. It is a general infection with symptoms such as fever, pains and odours would be prominent in this situation.”

However, being safe is not just your responsibility. Everyone needs to be vigilant and aware of the person they are engaging in intimate relations with.

“Most sexually transmitted infections do not have any symptoms that would indicate that you have it,” Poynter said. “Some people think serial monogamy is a safe way to ensure that you are controlling the number of sexual partners you have, but they have all been with other people at some specific point in time and you can only be sure if you tested yourself and know that the person you are with has been tested as well.”

It is important to frequently educate yourself on contraceptives and various infections. Being informed about the latest advances in protection or STI statistics in Ontario and all over Canada acts as your first line of protection.

“It is really important to get this information out to the public and raise awareness about the issue of sexual health,” Poynter said. “Searching communityhealthstats. healthunit.com allows Londoners to understand London’s standing among provincial statistics. The site deals with different infections and gives information for both gender demographics.”

Being able to access this information and contact specialists, such as Poynter, is a crucial step in being prepared for that next intimate encounter. So when the moment arises, be safe and be smart.