Factors That Influence The Use Of Condoms In The Prevention Of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (PMS) In The Bukit Maraja Localization In Simalungun Regency In 2013

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Factors that Influence the Use of Condoms in the Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (PMS) in the Bukit Maraja Localization in Simalungun Regency in 2013

Sexually transmitted diseases (PMS) are a significant public health concern worldwide, and the use of condoms is a crucial preventive measure. However, the use of condoms in certain regions, such as the Bukit Maraja localization in Simalungun Regency, is still relatively low. This study aims to analyze various factors that influence the use of condoms among men, including knowledge, attitudes, availability of condoms, and support from sexual workers, health workers, and the media.

Background and Significance

Sexually transmitted diseases (PMS) are a major public health concern, and the use of condoms is a crucial preventive measure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are over 30 million new cases of PMS reported annually, with a significant proportion of these cases occurring in developing countries. In Indonesia, where this study was conducted, PMS is a significant public health concern, with a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS and other STIs.

The use of condoms is a critical preventive measure against PMS, and it is widely recognized as an effective way to reduce the transmission of STIs. However, the use of condoms in certain regions, such as the Bukit Maraja localization in Simalungun Regency, is still relatively low. This study aims to analyze various factors that influence the use of condoms among men, including knowledge, attitudes, availability of condoms, and support from sexual workers, health workers, and the media.

Methodology

This study used an analytical observational approach and cross-sectional design to analyze the factors that influence the use of condoms among men in the Bukit Maraja localization in Simalungun Regency. A total of 60 men were randomly selected from a population of 300 men who visited the localization in 2013. The study used a questionnaire to collect data on knowledge, attitudes, availability of condoms, and support from sexual workers, health workers, and the media.

Results

The results of this study showed that the level of condom use in Bukit Maraja was only 28.3%. The analysis conducted revealed that attitudes (p = 0.005), support from sexual workers (p = 0.003), support from health workers (p = 0.030), and media support (p = 0.029) had a significant effect on the use of condoms. The percentage of truth of 91.7% shows that these variables are able to explain their effect on the use of condoms quite well.

Analysis of Factors Affecting the Use of Condoms

Knowledge and Attitudes

Good knowledge of PMS and how to prevent them, including the use of condoms, is very important. A positive attitude towards the use of condoms also plays a major role in increasing the frequency of its use. Men who have a better understanding of the risk of PMS tend to be more open to using condoms.

Support from Sexual Workers

Active support from sexual workers in offering condoms to customers can increase condom use. When sexual workers proactively encourage the use of condoms, this can change men's perception of the importance of protection in sexual relations.

The Role of Health Workers

Through the Communication, Information and Education (IEC) program, health workers can help change attitudes and increase public knowledge. Health workers can provide education and counseling on the importance of condom use and how to use them correctly.

The Role of Media

Mass media, both print and electronic, has an important role in spreading information about the use of condoms. Consistent and attractive health promotion can help increase public awareness about the importance of the use of condoms in the prevention of STDs.

Recommendations for Increasing the Use of Condoms

Based on these findings, there are several recommendations that can be applied to increase condom use:

  • Increasing Knowledge: It is essential for men to increase knowledge and attitudes towards the use of condoms and the dangers of STDs through a comprehensive educational program.

  • Support from Sexual Workers: Sexual workers are expected to actively offer condoms to their customers, creating a safer environment and supporting the use of condoms.

  • Education from Health Workers: Health workers must be more active in providing IEC about the use of condoms, especially in locations that have a high level of risk.

  • Promotion through the Media: Government and Health Organizations must strengthen promotions about the use of condoms through various media channels, both online and offline, to achieve more people.

Through collaborative efforts between the community, sexual workers, health workers, and the media, it is expected that the use of condoms can increase, which in turn will reduce the rate of PMS infection and improve overall public health.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of knowledge, attitudes, support from sexual workers, health workers, and the media in increasing the use of condoms among men in the Bukit Maraja localization in Simalungun Regency. The findings of this study suggest that a comprehensive educational program, active support from sexual workers, and consistent health promotion through the media can increase condom use and reduce the rate of PMS infection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Use of Condoms in the Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (PMS)

Q: What is the importance of using condoms in preventing sexually transmitted diseases (PMS)?

A: Condoms are a crucial preventive measure against PMS, as they can significantly reduce the transmission of STIs. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), condoms are 85-95% effective in preventing HIV transmission, and 70-90% effective in preventing other STIs.

Q: What are the factors that influence the use of condoms among men?

A: The study found that attitudes, support from sexual workers, support from health workers, and media support are significant factors that influence the use of condoms among men. Men who have a better understanding of the risk of PMS tend to be more open to using condoms.

Q: How can men increase their knowledge and attitudes towards the use of condoms?

A: Men can increase their knowledge and attitudes towards the use of condoms through a comprehensive educational program. This can include workshops, counseling sessions, and educational materials that provide information on the importance of condom use and how to use them correctly.

Q: What is the role of sexual workers in promoting condom use?

A: Sexual workers play a crucial role in promoting condom use by actively offering condoms to their customers. This can create a safer environment and support the use of condoms.

Q: How can health workers promote condom use?

A: Health workers can promote condom use through the Communication, Information and Education (IEC) program. This can include providing education and counseling on the importance of condom use and how to use them correctly.

Q: What is the role of media in promoting condom use?

A: Mass media, both print and electronic, has an important role in spreading information about the use of condoms. Consistent and attractive health promotion can help increase public awareness about the importance of the use of condoms in the prevention of STDs.

Q: How can individuals promote condom use in their communities?

A: Individuals can promote condom use in their communities by spreading awareness about the importance of condom use, providing education and counseling on the use of condoms, and supporting health workers and media in their efforts to promote condom use.

Q: What are the benefits of using condoms in preventing PMS?

A: The benefits of using condoms in preventing PMS include reducing the transmission of STIs, preventing unintended pregnancies, and promoting safer sex practices.

Q: How can individuals access condoms and other reproductive health services?

A: Individuals can access condoms and other reproductive health services through various channels, including health clinics, community health centers, and online resources. It is essential to ensure that condoms are accessible and affordable for all individuals.

Q: What are the challenges in promoting condom use in certain communities?

A: The challenges in promoting condom use in certain communities include stigma and shame associated with condom use, lack of access to condoms and reproductive health services, and limited awareness about the importance of condom use.

Q: How can we overcome these challenges and promote condom use in our communities?

A: We can overcome these challenges by promoting awareness about the importance of condom use, providing education and counseling on the use of condoms, and ensuring that condoms are accessible and affordable for all individuals.