Valentine’s Day is not just reserved for roses and chocolates. February 14th marks the beginning of National Condom Week, a time to reflect on the importance of using condoms – the ONLY method that protects against pregnancy AND sexually transmitted infections (STIs). At this point, most teens know about condoms and their benefits, but few people know how far back condoms go. Time for a brief history lesson!
- The first confirmed usage of a condom would be during the 16th century Renaissance. At first, it was only used to fight the spread of deadly syphilis. People used chemical soaked linen to cover their penis. These were subsequently used as an early form of birth control! Now we have a treatment for syphilis and more advanced forms of condoms.
- During the 18th century, condoms were usually made of cleaned animal parts like the intestine. This allowed for a waterproof condom that was even more effective at birth control than linen, albeit a little strange! You can still find condoms made of animal products (often called lambskin) but these do not protect against STIs, only pregnancy.
- The first rubber condom was created in the 19th century. This revolutionized the product, which became a more effective contraceptive that was cheaper to produce.
- Condoms skyrocketed in popularity amidst the 1980s HIV/AIDs epidemic because they were proven to be effective at stopping transmission. Thank you condoms!
Although condoms are not 100% effective at protecting against pregnancy and STIs, they can greatly reduce risk and can be a good first barrier to accompany another form of contraception.
This National Condom Week, follow us on Instagram (@teensourceorg) to find giveaways, activities, and more information about condoms. And don’t forget to visit teensource.org to learn how to GET FREE CONDOMS.
Happy Condom Week!