This video (be warned, it is risque) from abortion charity Marie Stopes International and comedy music trio The Midnight Beast communicates a mix of good and bad messages. ‘Use ya head before you go to bed’ is an obvious piece of advice, but one that is also not followed by many young people. The video suggests using contraception such as an implant or a ‘coondom’, and also includes the line: ‘One up the bum and it’s no harm done, one up the bum and you won’t be a mum’, seeming to suggest that this is a method of birth control! These lyrics have led to the video being criticised by some viewers who say that it ignores the risks of sexually transmitted infections with one young person commenting: I take it this video is for a world without Aids?’ A mother has complained, saying that: ‘It is a silly way for the charity to spend valuable resources.’
The Metro article ends with a quote from a spokesperson from a sexual health charity who says the video should be seen in context alongside the advice on the website. This is true, but they then add that: ‘It is really important to tell young people that only condoms will protect them from STIs.’ Erm, ever heard of advising young people not to have sex? That works to protect them from STIs as well…
So while this video raises awareness of contraception and condoms in ‘a fun way’, I think it steps over the mark in some places and the message can be a little bit lost.
Theme Tags: Abortion, Sex, Relationships, Music
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