THERE has been a remarkable decrease in the use of condoms by young South Africans.
Speaking to Cape Talk presenter Africa Melane, Dr Mpumi Zungu of the Human Sciences Research Council said this is often because people in relationships assume their partners are faithful and don’t use condoms.
Tinyiko Nkanyane of loveLife said in relationships where people exchange money for sex, the dominant partner often refuses to use a condom.
She said many young people in rural areas still did not understand the importance of using condoms, which are available for free at most public facilities.
“We have a high rate of teenage pregnancies, and most of those babies are unwanted,” said Nkanyane.
“Condoms are available for free in public toilets, government buildings, clinics, hospitals and libraries, but people still choose not to use them.”
She said condoms were made for us to protect ourselves against sexual transmitted viruses and unwanted pregnancies,
February is Reproductive Health Month, and this week looks at STDs and condom use.
Dr Marnie Vujovic at the Right to Care organisation said: “Learners have a right to Sexual Reproductive Health services delivered in a sensitive, respectful manner that is confidential and non-judgemental.
