Martha's Case: The Unwelcome Phone Call

You chose 2: that is incorrect.

The correct answer is: 4: All of the above.

Latex condoms are effective in preventing the majority of STI, including HIV, hepatitis B, HSV, chlamydia and gonorrhea. However, if used improperly or inconsistently they may fail to provide adequate protection.

It is important that Martha knows how to properly use a condom. Demonstrating proper techniques using a condom and two fingers helps a patient to understand what you are saying.

To consult the Canadian STD Guidelines regarding the proper use of a condom click here.

For information your patients can easily understand on how to use a condom click here.

There are unfortunately a number of perceived barriers that prevent people from using condoms. However there are strategies that can help to overcome these barriers. You should talk to Martha about how to cope effectively with these and stress to her that it is her right to insist on safer sex.

To consult the Canadian STD Guidelines regarding barriers to condom use and effective coping strategies, click here.

For information your patients can easily understand on how to deal with common excuses for not using a condom, click here.

Martha may be surprised to learn that there is a female condom available. The female condom is a strong, soft, transparent polyurethane sheath that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse. It protects against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The female condom gives women who are having difficulty negotiating condom use with male partners a new option. It may put more control in the hands of women - allowing them to protect themselves against STI.

To learn more about the female condom, click here.