The declining trend in condom use
In recent years, there has been a marked decline in the use of condoms during sexual activities. Especially among adolescents and young adults, the need to protect themselves against STIs seems less and less urgent. This is a worrying development, given that condoms are one of the most effective methods of preventing the transmission of STIs.
STIs on the rise again: a forgotten problem?
The decline in condom use goes hand in hand with a rise in the number of STI cases. Diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis are increasingly being diagnosed. This shows that the preventive message of safe sex is not always getting through anymore. The normalisation of unprotected sex, partly due to the use of contraceptives such as the pill, makes people forget that condoms are not only for pregnancy prevention, but precisely also for protection against STIs.
What are the causes of this decline?
Several factors play a role in the decline in condom use. First, there are the misconceptions that other forms of contraception offer sufficient protection. In addition, a sense of invincibility often plays a role among young people. They think that STIs are something that will not happen to them. Social norms and the taboo around buying and using condoms may also contribute to this negative trend.
Time for action: awareness and education are crucial
To reverse this worrying trend, it is essential to increase sexual education and awareness. Adolescents and young adults need to be re-educated about the dangers of STIs and the importance of condom use. Schools, parents, and health organisations play a crucial role in this. It is time to open up the conversation and normalise condom use.
