The age-old wisdom holds true: prevention is better than treatment. This principle is especially vital when it comes to sexual health. Whether you’re looking to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), prevent unintended pregnancy, or simply stay informed, understanding your sexual and reproductive health options is the first step toward empowerment. From trusted contraceptives to fertility tracking tools, a wealth of resources is available to support your well-being and help you make confident decisions.
The 2022 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey (PNDHS) revealed that 98% of women aged 15 to 49 know at least one contraceptive method. The most common options are pills (97%), condoms (96%), female sterilization (86%), and injectables (85%). While this awareness is promising, knowing a single method is not enough. A deeper understanding of the wide range of options and how they align with individual health goals and lifestyles is key to achieving robust sexual health and a positive overall experience.
1. Expanding Your Sexual Health Toolkit
It’s always a good time to explore the products and resources available for sexual health. Here are some key tools to help you make informed, confident decisions:
2. Condoms
Widely available in drugstores and convenience stores, condoms are a popular contraceptive option. These thin latex sheaths act as a barrier, preventing semen from entering the vagina and reducing the risk of pregnancy and STIs when used correctly. With a 98% effectiveness rate, condoms are an essential part of any sexual health toolkit.
3. Birth Control Pills
Oral contraceptives, commonly known as birth control pills, are hormone-based medications that prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. Pills are available in two types: combination pills (COCs) with estrogen and progestin, and progestin-only pills (POPs), which are ideal for breastfeeding women. These must be taken daily for maximum effectiveness.
Emergency contraception, such as the Yuzpe method, can be used after unprotected intercourse. However, this should be reserved as a backup method to minimize side effects.
4. Lubricants
Intimate lubricants enhance pleasure by reducing dryness and friction during intercourse. Available in water-based, oil-based, and silicone-based formulas, they offer unique advantages. For instance, water-based lubes are versatile and condom-safe, while oil-based ones may damage latex condoms. Beyond pleasure, lubricants also reduce the risk of vaginal tears and anal fissures, promoting safer experiences.
5. Ovulation and Pregnancy Test Kits
Ovulation test kits detect luteinizing hormones (LH) in urine, helping women track fertility windows for conception or pregnancy prevention. Similarly, pregnancy test kits, which are 99% accurate, detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in urine. Reliable and accessible, these tools provide clarity and confidence in family planning decisions.
A Trusted Partner in Sexual Health: TRUST.ph
Broadening your understanding of sexual and reproductive health isn’t just about making informed choices—it’s about building confidence and taking control of your well-being. TRUST.ph, a leading online platform, offers reliable resources, from expert studies to health articles. Its empathetic AI chatbot, ai-Thea, provides personalized answers to SRHR questions, while interactive quizzes and a directory of trusted stores and clinics ensure comprehensive support.
Empower yourself with knowledge and make choices that reflect your needs and values. With platforms like TRUST.ph, navigating your sexual health journey has never been more accessible or reassuring.
