Let’s talk about sex.
Today marks the eighth annual World Contraception Day. The day aims to improve awareness of contraception and to enable young people to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.
A new Truth Report released by Bayer Healthcare has found that Irish women in their twenties want more information about sex and contraception.
The study has revealed that 41 per cent of us in our twenties want to know more about sexual performance, sexual positions and reaching orgasm. One in six of the Irish women surveyed said that they do not feel well-informed and want to know more about the facts on sex and contraception.
You can check out more of the findings from the report in the video below:
This information gap for Irish females has reinforced various myths and misconceptions around sex and contraception:
- 1 in 7 Irish millennials (those aged between 20 and 29) on contraception believe you cannot get pregnant whilst menstruating, more than the European average (1 in 10)
- Almost one-third believe you cannot catch sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from oral sex
- 58 per cent of women on contraception also confessed to having shared information about contraception or sex with others, despite being unsure whether it was true
The Truth Report also found:
- 70 per cent of the women surveyed have never heard of Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC), with nearly three quarters of Irish women claiming they have never been offered it by their doctor
- More than one-in-ten who had heard about it had ruled out the option of LARC due to various myths and misconceptions about the methods. Some participants did not realise that LARC is effective and suitable for many women of different ages (including those who haven’t had children), and that there is generally no delay in return to fertility with most of the options
Reviewing the research, Dr. Sinead Beirne, GP, commented: “Younger women turn to their preferred information channels, such as the internet and social media, for any personal problems, but they are usually not able to analyse the quality of the information.
“GPs are the most reliable source of information, as they are actively involved in contraceptive counselling and can provide tailored support to the individual, based on their health profile. They also play an important role in addressing and overcoming the myths around contraception.”
#YourPerfectMatch is an educational campaign sponsored by Bayer.
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) which include the hormonal IUS, copper IUD, implant & the injection, are some of the most effective forms of contraception available, offering freedom from the daily routine of having to remember to take a pill as well as long-lasting and effective protection against pregnancy. Make sure to book an appointment with your GP to discuss all of your options and find that perfect match for you.
To find out more check out http://yourperfectmatch.mycontraception.ie.
