There are few moments in life that inspire confidence like knowing you’re prepared for the big moment. It could be a big presentation for school, an important meeting for work, a big game for your sports team or even having all the right ingredients to try a new recipe. What matters is that your confidence level is boosted by knowing that you have exactly what you need to rise to the occasion.
The same is true for condoms! Having condoms on hand can provide you the peace of mind of knowing that if the moment arises, you’ll be prepared to practice safer sex and increase the level of protection for you and your partner(s).
Condoms Are Effective
So, just why might you feel more confident by being prepared with condoms on hand? The fact of the matter is that condoms are incredibly effective at decreasing the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among partners and significantly lowering the likelihood of unplanned pregnancy. In fact, condoms are up to 98% effective when used consistently and correctly. Can’t argue with those sort of numbers!
To give a quick refresher on why condoms generally are more effective than other safer sex methods, it all comes down to barriers. Many STIs are transmitted through direct contact with sensitive skin or bodily fluids (including semen, vaginal fluid, blood and more). Because of how condoms are constructed, they provide a strong but flexible barrier, significantly lowering risk. This is why condoms can be a reliable and important part of your sexual health.
Condoms Are for Everyone
Another great element of condoms is that they are widely available and generally accessible to everyone. But it is perhaps more revealing to look at some of the more common reasons people explain that condoms are not for them, and dispel some of the myths.
1. Myth: Other Methods Are More Effective
This is a common misconception. It is true that certain hormonal birth control boasts a higher overall effectiveness for preventing pregnancy and there are prescription prophylaxis medications with promising results for preventing the transmission of the HIV virus. While these medications pair well with condoms, there is not another safer sex method that incorporates both increased protection from STIs and significantly lower risk for unplanned pregnancy the way that condoms do.
2. Myth: There Are No Options For Those With Latex Allergies
Latex allergies are very much real and can be serious for some. For these people, there are actually great condom options that do not have any latex called polyisoprene or polyurethane condoms. These function in the same way as latex condoms and have similar effectiveness rates. The more you know!
3. Myth: Condoms Are Too Expensive
This perspective is a bit subjective, but generally speaking condoms cost about a dollar each (depending on where you’re browsing). In fact, on the ONE® Condoms site, a 12-pack of Mixed Pleasures variety pack costs about $0.70 per condom. In response to this concern, it’s worth noting that the cost of a condom is significantly lower than the cost of an unplanned pregnancy and/or treating an STI. Check the math yourself, it’s a no-brainer!
4. Myth: All Condoms Don’t Fit
Goodness of fit for standard condoms is not an uncommon concern, and ill-fitting condoms can lead to a lack of self-confidence. Because many standard condoms are sized pretty similarly, it can seem that there are no options for those who don’t feel comfortable in them. Good news! There are indeed custom sized condoms, tailored to you and your body. These condoms are more custom than the large and small condoms you might find in the pharmacy or drug store. Offering up to 10 custom lengths and 9 custom girths, there are a total of 60 size combinations, designed for your pleasure. Check out myONE® Perfect Fit Condoms!
5. Myth: Condoms Ruin the Moment
The truth is that not everyone is super comfortable talking about sex and sexuality. But there are lots of clever, sensitive and informative ways to discuss condom use with a partner. Check out some of our tips and tricks for talking about condoms!
6. Myth: It’s Awkward to Buy Condoms
If the idea of walking down the sexual health aisle at your local pharmacy or drug store to buy condoms makes you nervous or anxious, not to worry. There are many great online options to browse, research and purchase condoms, including the ONE® Condoms condom collection. It’s seamless and simple! Any purchased products will arrive in discreet packaging.
We hope by tackling some of these misconceptions around condoms we have assured you that not only are condoms for everyone, but that there are many options for you. If you are sexually active, condoms that feel good, fit right and help you enjoy a fulfilling sex life can and should build your confidence and boost your body image. Still not convinced? Try it out for yourself! 
Condoms Are Easy to Carry and Store
So how can you be prepared and confident by having condoms for the right moment? Easy! Condoms are simple to store and carry, but there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind. Firstly, you want to make sure to store condoms away from direct sunlight, and any extreme heat or cold, at room temperature. This ensures that they will not be damaged, and will provide you with the best possible protection. At home, you might consider storing your condoms in a box or plastic storage container under your bed, or even in a medicine cabinet or bedside table. This keeps them safe and easily accessible at a moment’s notice. If you have a nosy roommate, a snoopy family member or need to hide your condoms for some reason, you might even put them in a sock drawer. Whatever works for you!
If you want to have your condoms accessible to you on the go, there are some widely-accepted dos and don’ts. Some of the most common places you might store items on your person are actually not recommended for condoms. For example, condoms should not be stored in your back pockets or your wallet, as they might be damaged through your day-to-day activities. Instead, consider keeping them in a backpack, messenger bag or cloth purse. This will keep them safe and lower the risk of any damage.
For more tips about how to properly store (and use) condoms, check out our previous post here. Hope you can confidently and enthusiastically enjoy your condoms soon!
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