Are Condoms Harmful During Pregnancy? – Nope!

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In my first pregnancy, we enjoyed carefree sex until the third trimester, when my gynecologist suggested we use condoms. My husband had recurring chlamydia that was under treatment.

I always saw condoms as a form of birth control, and It didn’t hit me that they are effective in protecting against diseases. Further, I wasn’t sure of their impact on my munchkin.

Like me, are you wondering, “Are condoms harmful during pregnancy?”  “Will they harm my baby?” 

Let’s find out about condom use during pregnancy, its benefits, risks and how to use them safely.

are condoms harmful during pregnancy

Are Condoms Harmful During Pregnancy at All?

The short answer is, No. Condoms are not only effective in birth control, but experts recommend using them to protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIS) during pregnancy.

Whether you’re in a monogamous/ polygamous relationship or you often enjoy casual sex with random partners, ensure you take appropriate measures to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

STIS, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis or herpes, can cause preterm births, low birth weight and eye/blood infections in babies. Further, your body is prone to yeast infection during pregnancy, which could worsen due to having unprotected sex regularly.

You have a right to enjoy sex while pregnant without hurting your baby. Nevertheless, remember to take the necessary precautions. Additionally, it’s wise to test and seek treatment for sexually transmitted infections with your partner.

Are Condoms Safe To Use During Pregnancy?

Unlike other types of birth control, condoms are the only ones with unique protective abilities against some sexually transmitted infections. They are simple and safe to use – even during pregnancy.

Some people indeed react to latex material in condoms. Fortunately, the allergy affects only a tiny percentage.

According to experts, safe sex is paramount in pregnancy. Whether you can’t go a day without it or are okay with occasional sex encounters, a condom has numerous benefits.

Some advantages of using a condom during pregnancy include the following:

  1. Condoms are affordable and convenient – No matter where you live, condoms are readily available in chemists and pharmacies near you. Additionally, they are cost-effective and don’t require a prescription when buying. This means you can easily access it whenever you like.
  2. They are effective in preventing STDS – Using a condom is the most effective method of preventing sexually transmitted infections, especially HIV, Chlamydia and gonorrhea during penetrative sex.

It acts as a barrier that prevents the movement of infectious body fluids between two people. This way, the mucus, secretions, skin and genitals can’t come into direct contact.

  1. Condoms have little or no side effects – Many sexually active individuals use condoms worldwide without a hitch. Plus, there are no confirmed side effects so far.
  2. However, some people react especially to latex condoms. The good news is that latex allergy is rare. A Center for Disease Control study confirms that only 1 and 6 %of Americans are allergic to latex.
  3. Easy to buy and use – You can buy condoms anywhere, as no one will demand a doctor’s prescription. Additionally, these pleasure items come in a compact size that’s portable.

Using a condom isn’t a complicated process. Most brands provide a step-by-step guide on the package, which you can easily understand. Take caution and remember that incorrect condom use is worse than not using it.

  1. There are a variety of brands to choose from – There are numerous brands of condoms to suit your preference. If latex isn’t going well on you, switch to others made from soft plastics, such as polyurethane and polyisoprene. The Nitrile condom is another safe, latex-free option.
  2. Quick clean-up process and disposal – You don’t need to take a shower after sex – unless when necessary. Condoms are hygienic as there will be no more messy bed sheets. Wrap it with tissue paper before throwing it into your dustbin.
  3. Condoms also prevent other infections – Aside from protecting you from STIS, condoms keep semen away from your vagina, balancing the vagina’s PH level. Without a misbalance, the vagina is less vulnerable to infections.
  4. More sexual pleasure – Condoms reduce sexual pleasure. Right? Wrong! They make sex more fun by delaying ejaculation and orgasm in your partner. This way, both of you enjoy intimacy longer and better.

Factors to Confirm Before Using Condoms While Pregnant

Now that we’ve answered the question, “is a condom safe during pregnancy?” Let’s find out how to choose a good brand. Surprisingly, some contents in condoms may threaten your and your baby’s health.

What should you check before buying a condom?

1. Additives – Different manufacturers include additives such as talc, starch, lubricants and preservatives. Go for one with natural, organic ingredients instead of chemical additives.

2. Spermicides – Some spermicides could cause congenital disabilities in babies. Other types decrease the shelf life of latex condoms, exposing you to the risk of contracting STIS. Avoid condoms with spermicides for safety purposes.

3. Lubricants – Oil-based or water-based lubricants are commonly found in some brands. Oil causes wear and tear, while glycerin and silicone are notorious for worsening irritation or yeast infections.

4. Sugars and artificial flavors – While these make oral sex more fun, they may cause the overgrowth of vaginal yeasts, leading to inflammation. An irritated vagina is more prone to sexually transmitted diseases.

5. Colours and fragrances – Artificial colours and sweet fragrances increase sexual fantasy. However, some dyes may be absorbed into your growing foetus’s system. Choose scent-free condoms to prevent potential allergic reactions.

It’s safe to know the material of a condom before buying. Check the label or ask an expert to assist. For more protection against STIS, Choose an appropriately-sized condom. Again, be cautious as these pleasure items may only protect covered areas during sex, leaving you at risk of herpes and syphilis.

are condoms harmful during pregnancy

6 Tips On How To Use Condoms Safely During Pregnancy

Most women love sex, but hurting their unborn child could be unbearable. This begs the question, “is condom dangerous during pregnancy?”

I assure you, it’s harmless and healthy for both of you if used correctly.

Some tips for safe condom use while pregnant include:

1. Always double-check the expiry date – Confirmation is essential to avoid condom bursts and tears.

2. Use one condom at a time – Do not re-use. Dispose of any used condom and open a new one for another session.

3. Wear it before any vaginal or genital contact – Whether it’s a male or female condom, wear it during foreplay – before any penetration.

4. For external/male condoms, take off soon as the erection subsides – Once the erection loosens, remove your condom to prevent friction or fluid leaks.

5. Avoid double-bagging – Resist the temptation to wear two condoms together as they’re likely to burst easily.

6. Wrap well before disposing – Use clean tissue paper to wrap the condom. Make sure semen doesn’t leak out.

Wrapping Up

Are condoms harmful during pregnancy? Here’s what you should know:

A condom is safe and helpful in preventing sexually transmitted diseases that could harm your unborn baby.

When buying, go for ones with little or no chemical additives, lubricants, artificial colors, and preservatives that could irritate the vaginal lining, making it prone to infections.

Some tips to ensure safe condom use include checking the expiry date, avoiding double bagging, using one piece at a time, and wearing it before any genital contact.

If you need expert advice about condom use during pregnancy, consult your gynecologist.

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