No matter your sexuality, condoms are essential for practicing safe sex as they protect you and your partner from becoming parents and from contracting a sexually transmitted disease or infection.
I've always been one to campaign for safe sex, yet, I really don’t have a preference for a condom. It’s like size—it doesn’t matter it’s what you do with it that matters. In high school, I was a part of a program that taught my peers and younger students how to put condoms on. We carried a wooden dildo, plopped it on someone's desk, carefully ripped open a condom, and began to demonstrate— yes, it was as much fun as it sounds!
With college students, the everyday conversation usually ends up landing on sex, so I chose to discuss protection to see what the general opinions on condoms are.
Hence, I asked 12 men, including straight and gay individuals, ranging from ages 18-30 about their thoughts on condoms.
Here are the responses:
1. "Better be safe than sorry. I'm not ready to be a father or mature enough to take care of an STI/STD."
Well, at least he's aware of the consequences.
2. "I really don't like them."
They're not gorgeous looking and the lube is kinda gross, but no matter how you feel about them it's just #CondomSense to use them! There are so many different kinds of condoms with a variety of textures, tastes, and smells, so there's bound to be one that's perfect for you.
Condoms are also sexy since there is less stress about the prospective dangers.
Additionally, unlike other forms of protection, condoms have no side effects.
3. "Blue box Trojans are the best. No need for Magnums because anybody can fit into the blue ones even if they pack a big load. I have never tried Lifestyle. Oh, and foreign condoms are weird so I recommend bringing some when you go on vacation, especially since it's hard to read the boxes. I also recommend trying Trojan FIRE & ICE. The ridges one makes no difference except it kind of falls off easier. And don't double bag it. Even though my uncle tells me to."
I was pleasantly surprised since he's got some good advice. I can't speak about the size dilemma, but it's definitely a smart idea to steer away from foreign condoms when you can't read the words on the box! Furthermore, never use two condoms at once! The friction can easily rip them and they become useless!
4. "I don't use condoms, I use PrEP."
Risky and not something I personally condone since you're playing with fire. Although 92 percent to 99 percent effective, PrEP only protects against HIV, excluding STIs or pregnancy, so you have to wonder "how comfortable you are with some degree of uncertainty."
If you aren't using condoms while on PrEP, assure to get tested regularly for STIs so that they can be treated quickly.
5. "When I first became sexually active, my mom bought me a box of condoms."
Love it, this is the type of mom I strive to become: super open and close-knit with her children.
6. "What's a condom? Who uses those? Skyn is the best."
See what he did there? Skyn is ultra thin so the feel is really close to the real deal.
7. "Trojan Bareskin. I don't mind condoms, but I prefer to not use them if the girl is on birth control. Lubricated is very important."
Birth control is great, but even if a girl is taking the pill, both parties must assure that they are clean of STIs/STDs before going in raw. Moreover, I concur, lubrication is a must!
8. "I have a few at my house. Why don't you come on over and we can test them out."
I'm glad to hear he uses them and knows that safe sex is great sex. Thanks for the laugh.
9. "Trojan Her Sensation is the best. I think they are a great way to practice safe sex with your partner."
Now that's what I like to hear. The woman who gets this man is one lucky lady.
10. "My favorite condom is when they don't exist!"
Okay, my best friend said this, so I know he was joking, but it's important to note that condom use is essential as protection is key!
11. "Trojan Ultra Thins. To be honest the only reason I like them is because one of my ex's said that they feel better than the usual Magnum ones."
Listen up boys, the girl is always right. Ultra Thins assures a skin-like feel as if the condom isn't even there.
12. “Make sure it’s not the numbing kind to delay ejaculation… did that my first time and it was quite an experience.”
Everyone has a first-time story, but this one has got to top them all!
If you have any questions about safe sex, feel free to check out the following websites:
