Condoms

It is a stage of life in which boys and girls experience physical, psychological, emotional, and social changes. Adolescence begins with puberty and ends when these changes reach greater stability, around the age of 19. Puberty marks the start of adolescence and generally occurs between 10 and 13 years of age. The most noticeable changes during this stage are physical.

For girls, it usually begins between ages 10 and 11, and for boys, between ages 11 and 13. Its onset depends on genetic, sociocultural, nutritional, and economic factors. Some may begin these changes earlier or later; however, if by around age 15 they have not started, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

It is the release of semen through the penis, accompanied by a sensation of pleasure. The first ejaculations generally occur during erotic dreams, which are driven by sexual desire and fantasies. These first ejaculations are called torrarche or semenarche.

There is no effective way to protect yourself from STIs without using a condom. However, if a person is absolutely certain that their partner does not have an STI and is not having sexual relations with anyone else, they may agree not to use a condom. Still, such agreements can pose health risks.

Another way to reduce the risk of STIs without using a condom is to engage in sexual activities that do not involve penetration or the exchange of bodily fluids such as semen, blood, or vaginal fluids.

No. The effectiveness of condoms depends on proper use, not on their thickness. There is a type of condom called “extra strong” or “resistant”, which is recommended for anal intercourse.

To use a condom correctly, keep the following in mind:

• Buy quality condoms from trusted places.

• Check the expiration date and make sure the package is in good condition.

• Do not keep it in your wallet, as body heat and pressure can damage it. Store it in a cool, dry place.

• When opening the condom, do not use sharp objects such as scissors or teeth — use your fingertips instead. Remove it carefully from the package and pinch the tip to leave space for semen.

• Place it on the erect penis, holding the tip, and unroll it down to the base of the penis.

• After ejaculation, hold the condom firmly while withdrawing to prevent it from slipping off. Remove it from the base to the tip of the penis, avoiding contact with semen.

• Wrap the condom in tissue paper and throw it in the trash (not in the toilet).

• Use a new condom for every sexual encounter. It is not reusable.

Most condoms are designed to fit an average-sized penis, meaning between 10 and 18 centimeters (4 to 7 inches) in length. However, some men feel that condoms are too tight or uncomfortable, which can reduce pleasure and cause concern about breakage.

There are XL-sized condoms available in some countries in Europe and North America, but they are not easily found in Colombia.

No. On the contrary, there is a greater risk of breakage or slippage when two condoms are used at once. Using one condom correctly is sufficient for effective protection.

Very few people are actually allergic to latex. When this happens, it can cause a reaction such as swelling, redness, or difficulty breathing, among other symptoms.

You can tell if someone is allergic when they have had contact with latex-made items — such as party balloons or kitchen gloves — and have experienced these reactions.

If a person is allergic, they can use condoms made from other materials, such as silicone or polyurethane, which are available at most pharmacies.

No. Cancer is caused by different factors, such as hereditary predisposition, viral infections, and lifestyle habits that affect health (like smoking and alcohol consumption).

On the contrary, condoms are the most effective method to prevent STIs, including HIV/AIDS and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — the latter being one of the main risk factors for cervical cancer.

No. When used correctly, condoms are about 93% effective.
Failures occur mainly when they are not used properly — for example, if they are put on too late, removed too soon, or not used during every sexual encounter.

No. HIV cannot pass through condoms. The virus requires a transport medium such as blood, semen, or vaginal fluid to be transmitted.

Therefore, it is not possible to become infected unless the condom breaks, slips inside the vagina, or is used incorrectly.

No. The condom is the only method that protects against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) during this type of sexual activity.

For greater safety, it is recommended to use water-based lubricants, as they do not damage condoms and help reduce the risk of breakage.