AMID the stigma on the discussion of safe sex practices that are still present in Davao City today, accessible education on the topic is the best solution, according to a reproductive health expert.
Dr. Jordana Ramiterre, head of Davao City’s Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC), said education is extremely important that should ideally be discussed with adolescents by schools or their guardians.
But with the stigma embedded in the country’s culture and norm, discussions on safe sex can still be difficult to tackle.
“Dako gihapon kaayo ang stigma mao nang, kung isguro wala'y stigma and we are free to talk about it, siguro mag gamay (The stigma around it is still very big. If it weren’t for the stigma, maybe we are free to talk about it to lessen) (cases of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies),” she told SunStar Davao in an interview.
Most especially, Ramiterre said discussing safe sex should start at home between the adolescent and the parents and be further learned at school but she said parents became used to ignoring the topic altogether.
“Ang nangayayari, tinatago siya kasi baka isipin nag promote, madaling matuto so gagawin na (Talking about safe sex is ignored because maybe they though it is being promoted or it if’s discussed then they would do it). But I think the important role of the school in that part is the subject of sex education (that will discuss) prevention and control," she said.
For young adults and older individuals who did not have sex education when they were younger, Ramiterre said they can start learning by accessing information and tools at their local health centers where they can also access services.
The proper discussion and practice of safe sex are vital components of preventing the spread of STDs such as the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV and teenage pregnancies.
Ramiterre said safe sex starts by following the five-step method, which includes abstinence or sticking to one sexual partner, correct and consistent condom use, avoiding drugs or sharing of needles, and education. ICM