Tuesday, July 1, 2008

The condom


Today, human beings will have sex more than 100 million times. Today's sex will also make one million women around the world pregnant — about half of them unintentionally.

The condom is a remarkable little device; a fraction of an ounce, and thin as 1/500 of an inch, it simultaneously fights three of the most serious problems facing humans: sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancies and population growth.

Researchers theorize that just a 14 percent increase in the use of contraceptives could translate into 1 billion fewer births by the middle of this century. A billion fewer humans might spare the planet perhaps 4 billion tons of carbon-dioxide emissions each year.

Inadequate contraception is not just a Third World issue. Roughly half of all U.S. pregnancies are unintended. And a baby born in North America will use roughly 25 times more resources over the course of its life than a baby born in the developing world.

6 comments:

GirlSpeakExpert said...

Wow. Usually I find I have to put in my 2 cents, whether appropriate or not, but now I find that all my input would be way TMI for everyone.

GirlSpeakExpert said...

I'm all for population control, if only not to have to sit next to 5 screaming children on the airplane every time I fly.

Also, people who use condoms should be aware that latex allergies are a lot more common than you think and a severe reaction can lead to anaphylaxis; about 3 people per year die of a latex allergy. Latex allergies can occur at any time without any previous warning. There are non-latex options out there, but be aware that the natural sheepskin condoms DO NOT prevent the transmission of STDs.

Ciara said...

On another note, related to contraception but for women...IUD's.

Be careful with these. They are not for every woman. I recently had a serious incident with one which nearly proved fatal.

Be sure to get regular checkups and listen to your body and follow your instincts.

Mine is removed. NOTE: By Planned Parenthood.

Nicklese said...
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GirlSpeakExpert said...
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Ciara said...
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