September 2, 2024
As Sexual Health Week approaches, it’s essential to emphasise the role of condoms and lubricants in protecting sexual health while promoting safe, pleasurable experiences.
Condoms are so important when it comes to reducing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to their efficacy being extremely high when used correctly and consistently. Coupled with educational initiatives, they can play a crucial role in advancing public health and further promoting healthier practices across all communities. Sexual Health Week (9th – 15th September) serves as an opportunity to not only educate individuals on the proper use of condoms but also to encourage open discussions about sexual health. This year’s theme, “Are You Feeling It?”, challenges us to look beyond physical health and focus on the emotional and mental aspects of sexual well-being.
The 2024 Theme: “Are You Feeling?”
When it comes to sex, do you worry more about catching an STI or catching feelings? While condoms protect us physically, “Are You Feeling It?” encourages us to consider how we protect our emotional health too. This year’s theme highlights the link between mental and sexual health, acknowledging that with mental health in decline and STIs on the rise, we need to approach sexual health more holistically.
Brook, a leading sexual health charity, has long recognised that emotional and physical well-being are intertwined. By amplifying the voices of those affected by stigma, and promoting early intervention, the 2024 Sexual Health Week theme aims to foster a deeper conversation around the role mental health plays in sexual well-being. It’s time to recognise that healthy minds are just as important as healthy bodies, and both need protection and care.
The Role of Condoms in Sexual Health
Condoms are one of the most effective methods of preventing STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Yet, despite their accessibility and proven effectiveness, the UK has seen rising STI rates in recent years.
UK Sexual Health Statistics:
- STIs on the rise: In 2022, the UK saw a 24.3% increase in chlamydia cases, with over 220,000 diagnoses, making it the most common STI in the country. Gonorrhoea cases also rose significantly, by 50.3% between 2021 and 2022.
- Young people at risk: Individuals aged 15-24 account for almost 50% of all new STI diagnoses in England. Encouraging the use of condoms in this age group is essential to curbing the spread of infections.
- Pregnancy prevention: Condoms are 98% effective when used correctly, offering a highly reliable method of contraception. Yet, unplanned pregnancies remain a concern, with around 45% of pregnancies in England and Wales reported as unplanned.
Figures published by the NHS, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Public Health England.
These statistics shine a light on the ongoing need for condom use as a preventive measure. Offering a wide range of options, such as different sizes, textures, and materials, can make condoms more appealing and ensure they meet users’ needs.
The Role of Lubricants in Sexual Health
Lubricants often play a secondary role in discussions about sexual health, but they are equally important in ensuring comfort and reducing the risk of condom breakage. Studies show that using lubrication can enhance pleasure while minimising friction during sexual activity, contributing to overall sexual well-being.
Benefits of Lubricants:
- Reduced condom failure: Using the right lubricant with condoms can reduce the chance of breakage. Friction is a common cause of condom failure, and water or silicone-based lubricants can greatly reduce this risk.
- Enhanced comfort: A large number of individuals report experiencing discomfort during sexual activity at some point, and lubricants can help mitigate this, making sexual experiences more enjoyable.
The Intersection of Mental and Sexual Health
This year’s “Are You Feeling It?” theme reinforces the importance of considering mental health when discussing sexual health. As rising STI rates and the ongoing stigma around sex continue to affect individuals, we must recognise that mental and emotional well-being are equally critical to our overall health.
For many, the stigma around sex, STIs, and contraception can have a detrimental impact on their mental health. Normalising conversations about condoms, lubricants, and sexual health practices can break down these barriers, promoting both emotional and physical well-being. By encouraging young people to develop healthy attitudes toward sex and relationships, we can improve both mental and sexual health outcomes.
Brook has released the study, “Exploring the intersection of mental and sexual health”, with three key areas being identified.
- Poor sexual health on the part of those who have poor mental health
- Gender identity and sexuality
- Sexual abuse, domestic violence and harassment
The results stated that, “One of the most prominent factors which was highlighted by specialists was healthy relationships. Young people are at a pivotal moment in their lives where they are forming different types of relationships with people and these relationships can significantly impact their mental health and wellbeing. ”
Addressing the Need for Sexual Health Education
Despite the availability of effective protection methods, many people still fail to use any form of protection. Normalising conversations about condoms and lubricants, and educating the public on their correct use, is key to reducing both STI transmission and unintended pregnancies.
It’s also importance that young people have access to high quality RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) that emphasises the importance of positive and enjoyable relationships and provides the knowledge and tools to recognise harmful behaviours, seek help, and develop emotionally and sexually healthy relationships.
Conclusion
As the UK continues to face rising STI rates and an increasing need for contraception, condoms and lubricants remain essential tools in safeguarding both sexual and emotional well-being. This Sexual Health Week ,the theme “Are You Feeling It?”, encourages young people to develop healthy attitudes toward sex and relationships, recognising that mental and emotional health are as important as physical protection. By normalising conversations around condoms, lubricants, and sexual health, we can break down stigma and help people build healthier, more positive relationships.
