Tag: condom

Six interesting facts about contraceptives

Modern methods of contraception have come a long long way! Records have shown that contraception use dates as far back as 3000BC, but the 20th century saw expanded research that got us the methods we know today.

Here are some facts you may find quite interesting:

First record of contraception

The first record of contraception dates back to an Egyptian manuscript written in 1550 B.C. The Ebers Papyrus, a compilation of Egyptian medical texts, showed Egyptian women how to prevent conception using various methods.

First record of condom use

The first record of a condom dates all the way back to ancient Greece 3000 B.C by King Minos of Crete. His wife used a goat’s bladder sheath as protection. Whether this was a male or female condom is still up for debate until today.

First modern condom

We have the hardening (vulcanization) of rubber to thank for the ‘modern day’ condom. The first rubber condom was produced in 1855.

The first latex condom was produced in the 1920s and the first lubricated condom was produced in 1957.

First oral contraceptive

The contraceptive pill was developed from the roots of wild yam plants in the 1950s.

The first oral contraceptive was approved in the USA in 1960.

First IUD was a ring

The first IUD, developed in 1909 by the German physician Richard Richter, was a ring made of silkworm gut.

Popular method in Kenya

The most popular method of contraception in Kenya is the injectable, according to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey 2022.

March 29, 2023
Five condom myths debunked

The condom is one of the most popular methods of contraception because it protects against both HIV infection and unintended pregnancies. However, it is subject to a lot of myths and misconceptions.

In this article we debunk five popular myths and misconceptions about condoms.

1. Myth: Condom can be re-used

Truth: Condoms are used only once.

A new condom should be used each time a couple has sex and it must be used from start to finish to protect against pregnancy and STDs.

2. Myth: You can use two condoms at once

Truth: Only use one condom at once

Whether it is two male condoms or a female and a male condom, they will rub against each other, and the resultant friction can weaken them and cause them to break or fail.

3. Myth: Condoms do not fit.

Truth: There is a condom for everyone.

There are many different kinds and brands of condoms that vary in shape, size, colour, lubrication, thickness, and texture. Some are coated with a lubricant or spermicide.

4. Myth: Condoms can be stored anywhere

Truth: Keep condoms in a cool, dry place in their original wrapper.

Condoms can be made less effective by heat, light, and humidity. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry place where the package won’t get crushed, folded or punctured. They should also be stored away from sharp or rough surfaces that could tear them or wear them out.

5. Myth: Condoms encourage infidelity, promiscuity, or prostitution

Truth: Using condoms doesn’t make people more promiscuous

It instead helps us to make informed and responsible decisions about our sexual and reproductive health. Condoms are an appropriate contraceptive method for anyone, regardless of marital status.

Remember: Condoms are highly effective when used consistently and correctly in every sexual encounter.

C lick here to read more about condoms.

March 13, 2023