Condoms Aren’t Canceled — Here’s Why We Still Need Them

Let’s talk about something that might not be trending on your feed, but probably should be: condoms. Yes, those little wrapped-up contraceptives that used to be everywhere. Once a go-to for safer sex, condoms are getting used less and less, especially among teens and young adults. And at the same time, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise. So what gives?

Why The Condom Drop-Off?

Even though fewer young people are having sex overall, the ones who are sexually active aren’t using condoms regularly, if at all. And it’s showing. In 2023, people ages 15 to 24 made up 48.2% of all new cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.

So…how did we get here? Spoiler: it’s more complicated than just forgetting to bring one.

There are a few reasons why condoms aren’t the gold standard in contraceptives anymore:

• Medical advancements: More people are on long-term birth control, like IUDs or implants. And PrEP — a daily pill that’s highly effective at preventing HIV — has seen a major increase in use. Over half a million people in the U.S. now take PrEP regularly.

• A fading fear of HIV: Thanks to modern medicine, HIV isn’t the terrifying death sentence it once was. That’s good news — but it also means some folks aren’t as worried about taking steps to protect themselves.

• Sex ed is all over the place: What’s taught (and not taught) about sex varies wildly by state, and in some areas, it’s outdated or nonexistent. Some schools don’t even mention condoms!

When you combine all these factors, you get what we’re seeing now: less protection and more infections.

Why Condoms Still Matter

Real talk: birth control and PrEP are excellent tools that give people more control over their bodies and health. But they don’t protect you from everything. Condoms are still the only method that helps prevent most STIs. When used correctly, condoms reduce your risk of infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and even — though less effectively — herpes and HPV, which can spread through skin-to-skin contact.

Let’s Rethink Condoms

The condoms of the past? Not the same as the ones being sold today. These days, there are ultra-thin condoms, textured ones, flavored ones, and even ones that are more thermally conductive. Some have lube inside and out. Some are vegan. Some are latex-free. There’s a condom for everyone, and part of the fun of using them is trying different types to find the one that you like best!

And here’s another important tip: Pleasure is mental, too. If part of your brain is busy worrying, “Is this the time I catch something?” or “What if I get pregnant?” — you’re not really in the moment. That stress can take you out of the experience and make it hard to have fun. Condoms can help you feel safer, and when you’re relaxed, your body (and brain) are much more likely to enjoy what’s happening. Remember: feeling safe is sexy.

So instead of thinking that condoms are a buzzkill, try reframing them as part of your pleasure toolkit. You can make them part of the experience. You can take a moment to unwrap the wrapper, choose the style with your partner, and add lube if that’s your thing. It doesn’t have to ruin the mood — it can help build it.

Don’t Count Condoms Out

Condoms may not be trending, but they are still one of the best tools for protecting your body and your peace of mind. With STIs skyrocketing, it’s time for a little comeback tour. That starts with us being a little more open, a little more curious, and a lot more kind to ourselves and our partner(s).

You deserve sex that’s safe, consensual, and enjoyable. Condoms can help with that! If you aren’t comfortable purchasing condoms at your local drugstore, convenience store, or online, affordable or free condoms are often available at Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties’ health centers. To learn more, call (714) 922-4100.