The use of contraceptive methods, particularly condoms, is decreasing among young people, according to specialists cited in an opinion article by nurse Sofia Bernardino, a member of the Alto Tâmega e Barroso Health Professionals Association. This abandonment of safe sex practices represents a concerning trend that increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
The article alerts that methods such as the pill, the intrauterine device, the subcutaneous implant or the contraceptive patch, although highly effective in preventing pregnancy, do not protect against diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV or HPV. Only the male condom and the female condom provide simultaneous protection against pregnancy and STIs when used correctly. Sexually transmitted diseases remain very prevalent, and can cause serious complications such as infertility, cancer or chronic infections, and many do not show obvious symptoms in the initial stages.
Several factors are identified for this trend: HIV is no longer perceived as a death sentence due to advances in treatment, the existence of highly effective contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy leads some young people to consider condoms dispensable, and the influence of social media, misinformation and the less frequent comprehensive sex education programs contribute to risky behaviors.
The author argues that STI prevention depends not only on the existence of contraceptive methods, but also on available information and the ability to make conscious decisions. Health professionals recommend the so-called "dual protection," which combines an effective method against pregnancy with condoms. The article concludes that the increase in STIs has an impact on health systems and medical costs, and that recovering the value of condoms and promoting a prevention culture are urgent challenges, emphasizing that safe sex is a sign of responsibility and mutual respect.
