Survey: 4-in-5 Americans report condom use is important
EWING, N.J. — According to new research released Wednesday by Church & Dwight, 80% of American adults say condom use is important to them, however, only 35% report always using a condom.
The study, which examined condom attitudes and behaviors among American adults, found that among those with a repeat partner who reported not using a condom each and every time, close to 50% stopped using them regularly by month one and 62% stopped by month two. The research also found that while 75% of those surveyed agreed it's a shared responsibility for men and women to bring up condom use, the man is largely relied on to purchase and provide them.
In addition to the early drop-off rate, the research showed that nearly 40% of people who didn't use a condom during their last sexual experience reportedly did so without discussing it first.
When asked why they stopped using condoms, study participants cited commitment, trust and exclusivity as the top reasons for discontinuing the use of condoms. However, according to the research, 60% indicated they had not been tested for STDs, two-thirds indicated their partner had not been tested and more than 1-in-3 are not using another form of hormonal birth control.
Findings show that 60% of adults experience regret and stress after having sex without a condom due to worrying about STDs and/or pregnancy.
"Trust and respect for a partner are two important aspects in any relationship," stated Matthew Hussey, relationship expert and Trojan spokesperson. "Even though your relationship status may change, your sexual health status doesn't, so it's essential to have an honest conversation about using condoms, which ultimately shows your partner that you respect them and leads to a more enjoyable and healthy sex life."
Realizing the importance of encouraging more conversations about condoms, especially in light of the high drop-off rate of condom use within two months of a relationship, Trojan has partnered with MTV on a three-part content series that encourages the condom conversation between couples and reinforces the importance of continued usage. Created in collaboration with MTV's long-standing "It's Your (Sex) Life" responsible sexual health campaign, the "Co Zone Convos" series, which will begin airing on MTV on Wednesday, Sept. 10, portrays realistic condom conversations between couples among friends, helping to ease the moment of decision and remind viewers of the positive benefits of consistent condom use in a relationship.
"Condoms should play an important role in relationships, as they are the only contraceptive method that protects against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections and are 98% effective at preventing unintended pregnancy when used consistently and correctly," said Bruce Weiss, VP marketing for Trojan Condoms. "But condoms are exiting relationships early, with little to no discussion about the decision. Trojan wants to make this discussion easier and empower women and men to speak up, have the conversation and take charge of their sexual health."