THE RIGHT of individuals and couples to enjoy a healthy sexual life includes the prevention of unintended and mistimed pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).The 1997 Reproductive Health Survey reported that 50 per cent or 49,000 female condom users have used this method primarily to prevent pregnancy and STIs, 25 per cent to prevent STIs only, while 22.5 per cent rely on this method for pregnancy prevention. Correct and consistent use of the condom is the most effective way to prevent infection among at risk, sexually-active people. Among sexually-experienced young men, 15-24 years, who use the condom, 31 per cent did so at the last intercourse.
Multiple sexual partnerships are commonplace among Jamaican men with 32 per cent of those aged 15-49 years, reporting two or more sexual partners in the last four weeks. Fifty per cent or 344,000 women are currently using a method. The most popular method used is the oral pill followed by the condom. While methods of contraception are all effective against pregnancy, only the condom offers protection against HIV/STIs therefore couples should ensure that they use it correctly and consistently.
Almost 50 per cent of Jamaican women asked their partner to use a condom compared to 33 per cent of men and younger women are more likely to ask than older women. Male partners' negative reactions to the suggestion of using condoms ranged from refusing to use a condom (26 per cent), forcing her to have sex without using a condom (8 per cent), refusing to have sex with her (5 per cent), to applying threats (3 per cent).
Women are no exception with respect to negative reactions, as 9 per cent have refused to let their partner wear a condom, six per cent refused to have sex and two per cent were applying threats. In order to ensure the use of a condom in all sexual intercourse, couples must change their thinking and change their behaviour.
Dual method use, that is the use of two contraceptive methods with one being the condom, is an ideal way to prevent both unintended and misti-med pregnancy and STIs. Each year, at least 111 million new cases of STIs are reported worldwide in young people under the age of 25 years. The need to protect adolescent sexual health has been recognised by governments in international treaties and agreements, such as the Programme of Action from the 1994 ICPD Conference held in Cairo, Egypt.
Young, adolescent couples need to access reproductive health information and services in order to reduce pregnancy and STIs. Behaviour change promotion in family planning settings has significant potential if it succeeds in empowering women to negotiate safe sex practices with their partners. The concept of dual protection should be promoted especially among adolescents.
National Family Planning Board.
