Sex Matters

Under the Home section (H3) of The Straits Times today, there was an article on "Married S'poreans prefer condoms". From a study by the National University of Singapore (NUS), it was found that the condom is the most popular form of contraception among married Singaporeans. The findings reveal that:

• Husbands are more agreeable to put on condoms
• Women are having more say on fertility decisions
• The use of the rubber has more than doubled over the last 30 years
• Of the 900 married couples interviewed, 39% of them said they use condoms (in 1973, it was only 17%)
• The contraceptive pill, on the other hand, plunged in popularity - from 21.7% to 7%
• Next in popularity is withdrawal (21%)
• This is followed by the rhythm (11%)

Overall, the reliance on such "low-tech" methods implies there is good communication and respect in marriages. The presumption is couples do discuss on the choice of contraception and this is good.

Just last night, my 2 younger girls were also talking about fertility period (biology class topic) and some sex matters. Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) and sterilization were also discussed. It was a very casual interaction. We briefly discussed how each contraception works. They asked if I used any of those and I shared with them. After the birth of my 4th and last child, I opted for ligation.

Parents, should your children approach you on this subject matter, just be natural and deal with it like you are just having a discussion.