Whether you’re in a relationship, in the dating scene or somewhere in between, talking about condoms is not always easy. So, here’s some tips and pointers to help start a condom conversation.
Talk about condoms *before* sex.
Here are ONE, we love talking about condoms. But we know sometimes talking about condom use can be difficult, especially if you’re naked and in the heat of the moment. So, start the conversation way before sex. Whether it’s at dinner, in the park, on a date, or wherever — make sure your partner knows safer sex matters to you. Talk about which methods you plan to use to protect yourself from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Remember: Other than abstinence, condoms are the only way to protect yourself from both unintended pregnancy and STIs.
Say it loud & proud: I love condoms.
Some things you may hear when you insist on condom use could be: “But aren’t you on the pill?” or “Don’t you trust me?” Remember: You are in control of your body and your health. When you’re talking about condom use with a partner, make sure your message is clear. You could say: “I want to use condoms because I want to protect myself from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs),” or “I will not have sex with you unless we use condoms.”
Make sure you have condoms.
Here’s a key point: You can’t use a condom unless you have a condom. That’s just...science! So make sure to have condoms ready. We sometimes hear people say “I can’t carry condoms because people will think I’m a slut/player/[insert other similar term here].” You know what? We believe having condoms is actually: responsible, healthy, being prepared, commendable, educated, common sense, fun, exciting, fun, playful — you name it. Stigma is still a big issue when it comes to sex and sexuality, so let’s break down the stigma by having open conversations and displaying our condoms with pride.
Have ONE amazing, fun time with condoms.
There are so many condoms to choose from, whether it’s shape, color, size, texture or flavor.
As condom enthusiasts, our team at ONE has spent over a decade finding ways to make safer sex more colorful, fun and exciting. So, here are a few ideas:
- Perhaps you can try a colored condom to spice up the night?
- Or use a glow-in-the-dark condom for some Jedi fun.
- Yum: Make sex more delicious with a flavored condom.
- Or pair your condom with some vibrating sensations.
- Use a thinner condom to get closer than ever.
- Try a larger condom if the current one you’re using is too tight.
- Discuss your favorite ONE design as a way to introduce condoms to your relationship.
Introducing condoms back into a relationship.
Perhaps you have already started having sex with your current partner without condoms. You have every right to insist on condom use, even if you’ve already had sex with a person without a condom.
You may hear feedback, such as:
- “But don’t you trust me?”
- “Does this mean you’re seeing other people?”
- “Don’t you love me?”
- “Did you find out you have an STI or something?”
Again, remember: You are in control of your health, and you have the right to insist on condom use. Have a conversation about condom use before you have sex, and clearly explain why you want to use condoms. A healthy, respectful relationship is one where partners respect each other’s decisions and needs when it comes to their health and safety.
Questions? Comments?
Have additional ideas on how to start conversations about condoms and safer sex? Contact us and let us know! We’d love to hear from you. Together We Are One.