Private MD News

Program makes it easier for young people to access condoms

Category: Sexually Transmitted Diseases

One of the best ways to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted disease is to use a condom during every sexual encounter. Groups are currently working to make it easier for young people to access protection, as individuals between the ages of 15 and 24 are the most likely to receive a positive STD test.

A new initiative in California is seeking to enable teens and young adults to order condoms online and have them delivered straight to their house, according to the Sacramento Bee.

The program, which was launched by the California Department of Public Health and the California Family Health Council, intends to improve rates of condom use among young people by eliminating the awkwardness and discomfort of buying condoms in a store.

"The California Family Health Council agrees that abstinence is the most effective way to prevent STDs and unintended pregnancy," Amy Moy, the council's vice president of public affairs, told the news source. "But we know many teens are engaging in sexual activity, so we want help them be as safe as possible."

When safe sex practices such as wearing a condom are combined with regular STD testing, it can have a positive effect on overall disease transmission rates. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that screening is one of the best ways to stop the spread of infections.