Decline in condom use: how schools can better protect young people

Decline in condom use: how schools can better protect young people

Improving access to sexual education and contraceptives for young people!

The German Aidshilfe has presented alarming results on the decline in condom use among young people in Germany. This development is worrying because it may endanger the health and well -being of young people. At a time when sexual enlightenment is essential, it becomes clear that many young people do not receive the necessary support to make responsible decisions.

Ulf Kristal, a leading member of German Aidshilfe, emphasizes the importance of protected rooms in which young people can explore their sexuality. According to the latest reports, only 59 percent of the sexually active boys and 58 percent of girls use a condom, a decrease of 72 percent and 68 percent in 2014. This shows an alarming tendency that is particularly reinforced by lack of education and the reluctance of educational offers.

The decline in condom us must be seen as a sign that access to information about sexual health and the availability of contraceptives is not sufficient. It is crucial that schools not only offer space for education, but also seek cooperation with experts in order to develop meaningful programs. Crystal emphasizes: "We observe that schools are often not sufficiently prepared to adequately implement such offers, which is a fatal turn."

Another relevant aspect is access to contraceptives. Many young people have financial restrictions and cannot afford expensive condoms. Here the German AidShilfe calls for urgent measures from the federal government to provide free contraceptives via health insurance companies. Kristal says: "This is overdue and must now be tackled to enable young people anonymous and simple access to contraceptives."

In addition, many organizations that are connected to German AIDShilfe offer various programs and resources for sexual education. In view of the decline in condom use, it is crucial that these offers are expanded and better advertised. Information can be found at www.kompass.hiv, including short videos that are tailored to the needs of young people.

These developments show how important it is to form adolescents comprehensively on questions of sexual health. Society and politics are required to create a positive and supportive environment in which young people can learn to take responsibility for their health. Only then can we achieve a decline in HIV, venereal diseases and unwanted pregnancies in the long term.

Time to act is now. It is up to us to give the next generations the tools they need to make informed decisions.