Contraceptives aren’t just a woman’s responsibility. Men benefit from the use of contraceptives in many ways, including being able to decide when to have children as well as protecting themselves and their partners from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Talking to your partner about contraception is the best way to make mutual decisions that’ll protect and benefit both of you.

Importance of using contraceptives

When one partner leaves the decision about contraception up to just their partner, they not only create an unfair burden for that partner, but also lose their own ability to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. By failing to take responsibility for contraception, too many couples become parents before they’re capable or willing.

Talk about contraceptive options

The first step is to discuss the different contraceptive options with your partner. Although condoms can protect against STIs and unplanned pregnancy, there’s a chance they could break. This is why it’s advisable to talk to your partner about the dual protection method.

It’s important to talk about how comfortable each partner is with using long term or short term contraceptive methods, including the side effects. Both partners are responsible for their health, and you should never feel pressured to be on hormonal contraceptives just because your partner refuses to take responsibility.

Sharing decisions

Having a conversation with your partner about contraceptives is a good way to see how interested they are in participating in the process, which can also be an opportunity to assess if they’re a good choice as a sexual partner. By sharing decisions and being on the same page about birth control, you and your partner can both be protected.

Both partners are responsible

Our culture and media rarely address male responsibility in the prevention of STIs and unplanned pregnancies. The societal messages about contraception often ignore the impact that unprotected sex can have on men, so it’s important to involve your partner in these conversations.

Most partners should want what’s best for you as well as for themselves, so you shouldn’t accept excuses when talking to your partner about contraceptive options. If your partner isn’t willing to listen to your needs, it may be a good time to re-evaluate the relationship.

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send a Facebook message or a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).