Why Aren’t Many Young People in the U.S. Using Condoms Anymore? Let’s Unpack the Social Barriers Shifting Their Attitudes

Let’s talk about the elephant in the bedroom: why are fewer young people in the U.S. using condoms? In 2003, about 63% of high schoolers reported condom use the last time they had sex. By 2019, that number dropped to 54%. What’s changed?

Sure, we’ve seen the rise of other prevention methods like IUDs, PrEP, and PEP, but the real story goes deeper. It’s not just about better birth control—it’s about lack of education, social stigma, awkward conversations, and embarrassment. These emotional and cultural barriers are shifting how young people approach protection, and it’s having consequences.

In this article, we’ll unpack what’s really going on behind the scenes and what we can do about it.

The Drop in Condom Use: By the Numbers

Back in 2003, almost two-thirds of U.S. high schoolers were using condoms during their last sexual encounter. Fast forward to 2019, and that number had dipped to just over half. That’s a significant drop, especially when you consider that STIs and unplanned pregnancies haven’t disappeared. So why are fewer teens and young adults choosing condoms?

Rise of Alternative Protection Methods

Some of the decline can be linked to better access to other prevention tools like:

• IUDs and birth control pills – Highly effective at preventing pregnancy but do nothing for STIs.

• PrEP and PEP – Medications that reduce HIV risk.

• Doxycycline hyclate – Being studied to reduce bacterial STIs.

While these are incredible medical advances, many don’t protect against the full spectrum of STIs. Think of it like having airbags in your car—they’re great, but you still need to wear your seatbelt (aka condoms).

The Gaps in Sex Education

In the U.S., only 36 states require sex or HIV education—and many focus heavily on abstinence. This means millions of teens are missing out on honest, inclusive, and practical sex ed. Without information, they’re left to figure things out from friends, the internet, or trial and error.

Abstinence-Only Programs: Missing the Mark

Abstinence-only education might sound responsible, but it often skips over condom use entirely. As a result, students may see condoms as unnecessary or shameful. These programs don’t reflect the reality of teen and young adult sexual behavior, leaving young people unprepared.

The Power of Peer Pressure and Social Expectations

Let’s be real—nobody wants to be the “buzzkill” in the bedroom. Some young people fear rejection or judgment for insisting on a condom. Others just assume it’ll make things awkward. This pressure to “go with the flow” can mean people compromise on protection, even when they know better.

Condom Stigma: “Are You Saying I’m Dirty?”

There’s still this lingering myth that asking to use a condom means you don’t trust your partner. For example, a student from the University of Mississippi shared how some partners respond with: “If you don’t trust me, then I shouldn’t even be here.” That turns a smart health decision into a weird test of loyalty.

Buying Condoms: Why Is It So Awkward?

Ever tried buying condoms at a local drugstore, only to suddenly remember 15 other things you don’t need while avoiding eye contact with the cashier?

You’re not alone.

• 45% of college students feel embarrassed asking a pharmacist about condoms.

• 27% hate buying them near campus.

• 21% feel weird getting them from student health services.

This embarrassment leads to avoidance, and when the moment comes, many just skip it altogether.

The Confidence Gap: Talking About Condoms

A lot of young people haven’t been taught how to talk about sex—especially safe sex. That’s a huge gap. Without the confidence to bring it up, many avoid the conversation entirely, or default to whatever their partner wants.

Consequences of Not Using Condoms

The decline in using condoms has very real effects:

• STIs are rising, especially among ages 15–24.

• Unplanned pregnancies are still a concern.

• Emotional consequences, like regret or fear, can also be part of the story.

When we avoid the conversation, we invite the consequences.

STIs on the Rise Among Youth

In 2023, nearly half of all new STI cases were among young people aged 15 to 24. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a warning. Many of these infections are preventable with consistent condom use.

Why Condoms Still Matter

Here’s the thing: condoms are still the only birth control method that protects against both pregnancy and most STIs. When used correctly, they’re 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. So why not double up and be safer?

Combating the Embarrassment Factor

We need to start treating condoms like toothpaste—something everyone uses, buys, and talks about. No big deal.

Steps to help:

• More free access in schools, clinics, and universities

• Discreet vending machines in bathrooms or dorms

• Normalize carrying condoms in wallets or purses, just in case

What Real Sex Education Should Look Like

A good sex ed program should be:

• Inclusive of all genders, sexual orientations, and identities

• Honest about the realities of sex and relationships

• Practical, teaching communication skills, consent, and condom use

Without these basics, young people are flying blind.

Normalizing Condom Use in Pop Culture

TV shows, movies, influencers—they shape how we think about sex. Imagine if more characters:

• Showed mutual respect when discussing condoms

• Made condoms part of their normal, casual routine

• Helped debunk myths about “trust” or “ruining the mood”

Media matters. Let’s make using condoms look smart and sexy.

What We Can All Do to Promote Safer Sex

This is a team effort. Here’s how we can help:

• Talk openly with friends, partners, and kids about safe sex

• Support comprehensive sex education policies

• Normalize conversations around sexual health

• Encourage confidence in setting boundaries and asking for protection

Using condoms isn’t just about avoiding pregnancy—it’s about respecting yourself and your partner. Yet too many young people feel too awkward, uninformed, or pressured to make that choice.

It’s time to shift the narrative.

By educating, supporting, and normalizing condom use, we can help a new generation embrace safer sex—not as something taboo, but as something smart, empowering, and essential.