National Condom Day: Surprising Facts, Myths & Why Protection Matters

Did you know that February 13th is National Condom Day? That’s right! Just before Valentine’s Day, we take a moment to recognize one of the most effective tools for safe sex, STI prevention, and birth control—the condom.

Despite their importance, condoms remain surrounded by myths and misconceptions. So, let’s explore some fun facts, a brief history, why condoms matter, and debunk common myths to celebrate National Condom Day the right way.

Fun Facts About Condoms You Probably Didn’t Know

• The oldest condoms date back to 1640, discovered in a Swedish cave—and they were made from animal intestines. Even more shocking? They were reusable!
• Used correctly, condoms are 98% effective at preventing STIs and pregnancy, making them one of the safest methods of protection.
• Durex once created a 72-foot-long condom to cover an obelisk in France to raise awareness for World AIDS Day.
• Not all condoms are latex! If you have allergies, polyurethane, polyisoprene, and lambskin are great alternatives. However, lambskin condoms only prevent pregnancy, not STIs.
• Condoms have even been to space! NASA has sent condoms with astronauts on missions—because safe sex matters everywhere.

A Brief History of Condoms

Ancient Civilizations: Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used linen sheaths and animal bladders for protection.
1494: A major syphilis epidemic led to the use of chemical-soaked linen condoms (ouch).
1800s: Rubber condoms were introduced, but they were thick, stiff, and stitched together—far from comfortable.
1920s: The rise of latex condoms made protection thinner, cheaper, and more reliable.
Today: Condoms now come in ultra-thin, ribbed, textured, glow-in-the-dark, and flavored varieties to enhance pleasure.

Why You Should Always Use a Condom

If you need a refresher on why wrapping it up is essential, here are some key reasons:

Prevents STIs – Condoms reduce the risk of HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and more.
Prevents Unplanned Pregnancy – One of the most effective birth control methods when used correctly.
Maintains Sexual Hygiene – Helps protect against infections and irritation.
Prolongs Pleasure – Some condoms are designed to delay climax, helping both partners enjoy longer-lasting fun.
Affordable & Accessible – Unlike other birth control options, condoms are available without a prescription and can be found almost anywhere.

Unless you and your partner are monogamous, regularly tested, and using another reliable contraceptive, skipping condoms is a risk you don’t want to take.

Common Condom Myths—Debunked!

🚫 “Condoms ruin the sensation.”
✅ Truth: Today’s condoms are ultra-thin and heat-conductive, designed to mimic natural skin-to-skin contact. Adding lubrication can also improve sensation.

🚫 “Condoms always break.”
✅ Truth: When used correctly, condoms rarely break. The most common causes of breakage? Using the wrong size, expired condoms, or oil-based lubricants, which weaken latex.

🚫 “Wearing two condoms is safer.”
✅ Truth: Wrong! Using two condoms at once increases friction, making them more likely to tear. Stick to one well-fitted condom for maximum protection.

🚫 “You don’t need condoms for oral sex.”
✅ Truth: STIs like herpes, gonorrhea, and HPV can be transmitted through oral sex. That’s why flavored condoms and dental dams exist!

🚫 “The pull-out method is just as effective.”
✅ Truth: The pull-out method fails 22% of the time, while condoms (when used properly) have only a 2% failure rate. That’s a big difference when it comes to protection.

Make National Condom Day Count

Condoms have come a long way from their ancient, awkward beginnings. Today, they are one of the most reliable, accessible, and pleasurable ways to practice safe sex.

Whether you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s night, enjoying a spontaneous hookup, or just stocking up, use National Condom Day as a reminder to prioritize protection. And maybe try an ultra-thin, ribbed, or flavored variety—because safe sex can be sexy too.