Chapter 10, Part V: Condoms and Other Contraceptions
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he rubber comprising latex? condoms? has intrinsic [built-in or is a natural component of] voids [holes] about 5 microns (0.0002 inches) in size.? Since this is roughly 10 times smaller than sperm, the latter [sperm] are effectively blocked in ideal circumstances.
“The 12 percent failure rate of condoms? in preventing pregnancy is attributable to in situ cracking, removal, ozone deterioration from improper sealing, manufacturing defects, etc.
“Contrarily, the AIDS? virus? is only 0.1 micron (4 millionths of an inch) in size.? Since this is a factor of 50 smaller than the voids [holes] inherent [natural characteristic] in rubber, the virus can readily pass through the condom? should it find a passage.
“A reluctance to stake one’s life on the ability of a condom to prevent HIV infection bespeaks wisdom, not discrimination.� [1]?
Should conception occur from a damaged sperm (a sperm that was injured but not killed by the spermicide), there is a possibility that the child could be born with a handicap.?
According to the book Birth Control Methods, Health, And The Schools, the following side effects? and consequences exist from various methods of contraception:
“Bladder infections as a risk of using a diaphragm, allergic reactions as side effects? of condoms? and spermicides, using a spermicide with diaphragms or condoms leads to urinary tract infections in women.? The production of bacteria is increased, increasing the chance of infection.
“Sponge users may be at increased risk of vaginal candidiasis (a fungus infection) and toxic shock syndrome. Sponges can cause itching and persistent unpleasant odors.� [2]
The IUD (intrauterine device) is a device that is placed into the uterus by a medical professional.? Some IUDs are made of copper.? An IUD called the Dalkon Shield, came under much litigation due to adverse side effects.? One function of an IUD is to irritate the lining of the uterus, so that the developing baby may not implant.? Some adverse side effects attributed to the IUD are:? “ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in the first 30 days, bleeding, pain, expulsion, and PID.
“Depo-Provera? is a hormone that is injected into muscles in the arm or buttocks.? The hormone is packed in ‘time release’ crystals which gradually leaches it into the blood stream, stopping ovulation.? Patients need a new injection every three months.? Side effects include: menstrual irregularities, breast tenderness, nausea, weight gain, and delays in regaining fertility.? Long term use of the drug may increase a woman’s risk for developing osteoporosis (thinning and easy breakage of bones), cessation of menstruation, irregular bleeding, spotting, headache, nervousness, abdominal pain, dizziness, weakness, fatigue–three epidemiologic studies have been done on Depo-Provera and breast cancer and all three have raised a red flag.
“Norplant? consists of six flexible capsules, each 34 mm long and 2.4 mm wide containing a synthetic progestin widely used in oral contraceptives.? The capsules are inserted under the skin usually in the upper arm.?
“Norplant? is marketed for the prevention? of pregnancy for up to five years and after five years should be removed according to the FDA? (1991).? The FDA reports that if removal is difficult, the procedure should be interrupted and the patient asked to return for a second visit.? The FDA does not comment on the pain felt during this procedure by the woman.
[Side effects? cited by studies include:]? “(C)hanges in menstrual patterns, weight gain, headaches, mood changes, and acne, dizziness, hair loss, abnormal hair growth and distribution, nausea, changes in appetite, nervousness, breast pain, inflammation of veins, formation of clots, abnormal genital bleeding, acute liver disease, benign or malignant liver tumors, known or suspected breast cancer.? Heavy, irregular bleeding–is the primary reason that women discontinue its use.†? [3]
Considering the health hazards of the alternatives, this author highly recommends abstinence? before marriage, and natural family planning during marriage as the only way to go!
[1] C.M. Roland, “The Truth About ‘Safe Sex’ Leaks Out At Last,†The
[2] Sheryl Temaat, Birth Control, Methods, Health, and the Schools, pp. 13-14.
[3] Ibid., pp. 15-19.