How important is it to use a condom?

Responsibility is the mark of any person whose outlook on life is that of an adult. And one of the most significant ways of showing responsibility is in the attitude toward condoms. These thin sheets of latex are a huge issue for men. Some like them, some hate them. A few are indifferent to them and willing to go along with whatever the partner asks for.

The main point of contention is the balance between safety and pleasure. Some men claim that condoms get in the way of pleasure and spoil the feeling of closeness and intimacy. Others simply believe deep inside that nothing bad can happen to them. Despite all the protection condoms offer against sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies, these men still refuse to wear condoms.

But the risks are so very real. The international studies conducted by Durex have shown that 35 percent of all men have had unprotected sex despite the fact that they had no information on their partners' sexual history. Most people are well informed today; they know about AIDS, syphilis and other such diseases. They know they shouldn't have unprotected sex, but they don't really care.

However, this is not a behaviour that should be encouraged. Taking a chance is great for romance, but may prove to be at least unpleasant for your health later on. AIDS is currently a death sentence for nearly all those who become infected with the HIV. Genital herpes is not fatal, but it still cannot be treated at this time, nor is there any hint that a cure is soon to be found.

However, although it may not kill, genital herpes is a sure-fire romance killer. No healthy individual would like to sleep with somebody suffering from this disease. Syphilis, gonorrhoea and Chlamydia are old acquaintances of mankind. Although these diseases are no longer the problem they used to be a hundred years ago, it's still unpleasant to have to visit a hospital's STD ward.

Plus, STD cures involve certain periods of sexual abstinence that nobody likes. A bit of forethought is by far preferable to going through a lot of nasty shots and pills, not to mention the idea that last night's flame has brought you a bitter morning. Another thing that condoms are good for is protection against unwanted pregnancies.

If you feel you are too young or too financially insecure to start a family, if already have a family or if you simply have other priorities at the moment, then make sure you don't get a brand new family by accident. Having the Talk, tears, fights, trips to the abortion clinics and feelings of guilt are best left out of any relationship, regardless of how long or short it is.

And before I wrap it up, I'd like to mention something that all men should keep in mind. Condoms don't necessarily have to detract from your pleasure. There are dozens of types of condoms out there so feel free to experiment with the different textures and flavours. Discuss this with your partner and see if you can get her, or him, curious about some exotic type of condom.

The range of products available on the market is big enough to satisfy anybody. Therefore, the answer to our title is: using condoms is important. Life is too short and sex is simply too great to be spoiled with STDs and unwanted pregnancies. Find a condom you are comfortable with and don't forget to use it every time you have sex with somebody else than a faithful significant other. Have fun and stay safe.