MCPS BOE and Superintendent say, “Look for condoms with a spermicide like Nonoxynol-9"

For the last 15 years, data has been accumulating showing that the use of the spermicide Nonoxynol 9 is not only ineffective but actually enhances the transmission of HIV and some other STDs.

But the MCPS BOE and Superintendent say that children should use it anyway! This is a direct quote from the MCPS Sex-Ed ‘Protect Yourself ‘ video:

“Look for condoms with a spermicide like Nonoxynol-9, we used to think that Nonoxynol-9 was effective in neutralizing HIV and other STIs. But recent research has shown that it is not. However condoms using spermicide are effective in neutralizing sperm this reduces the risk of pregnancy.”

Yes, the MCPS Superintendent and BOE are correct! Nonoxynol-9 not only doesn’t protect against HIV and STI’s, it may actually increase a child's chances of getting HIV according to the World Heath Organization.

"The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday that spermicides used by millions of people worldwide do not provide the protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases previously thought. Experts agreed that Nonoxynol-9, contained in most spermicides and sometimes added to male condoms as a lubricant, may actually increase the risk of HIV infection in women having frequent sex, WHO said. Nonoxynol-9 clearly does not prevent HIV infection and may even favor infection if used frequently, it said, reporting on the final findings of an experts meeting in Geneva which it co-hosted last October with the Eastern Virginia Medical School. People using it as a lubricant in anal intercourse could also be under the false impression that it offered protection against HIV infection, the United Nations agency said." (Read the entire article)

So what does this mean?? With their endorsement of the new 'Protect Yourself' sex-ed video, the MCPS Superintendent and Board of Education are encourageing school children to use condoms with Nonoxynol-9, and studies have existed since the late 1980s indicating that Nonoxynol-9 did not prevent and may actually increase HIV infection risks.

This is NOT teaching the facts! And may even be endangering children who falsely think they are 'Protecting Themselves' after seeing the new MCPS Sex-Ed video. Why was this long standing knowledge left out??

- posted by MrADMN @ 2:18 PM