Germans turn to condom over the Pill on health concerns

Germans are turning increasingly to condoms and away from the contraceptive Pill as their preferred way to avoid pregnancy, according to a new study by a state-funded health agency, reported dpa.

The study by the Cologne-based Federal Centre for Health Education published on Thursday found that 53% of the 1,001 sexually active respondents aged 18 to 49 who were surveyed were using condoms. Just 38% were using an oral contraceptive.

In 2007, the figures were virtually the reverse, with 55% on the Pill and 36% using the sheath.

Other methods, such as the intrauterine device or spiral, sterilization or the rhythm method – in which a woman tracks her menstrual cycle – were considerably less popular.

According to the survey, reservations about the used of hormonal contraception are on the rise, with 61% of women and men agreeing with the statement that artificial hormones have "negative effects on the body and the mind." In 2018, the figure was just 48%.

Asked for their most important criteria, 39% said reliability, 30% simplicity of use, and 25% good tolerance.

Some 70% said they used contraception, with 73% of women saying they sourced their information from gynaecological consultation, and 49% of men from the internet.

The Pill is reliable and relatively easy to use, although it has to be taken at the same time every day. Side-effects may occur.

Condoms are also reliable, provided they are used properly, and are inexpensive. In addition, they provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.