National Condom Month is an unofficial holiday month in February. It usually comprises a variety of activities throughout the month such as discussions, forums, and even flash sales of condoms. The idea of this holiday is to sensitize American adults to the benefits of condoms and how condoms can substantially mitigate many sexually related mishaps (most commonly unplanned pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections and diseases). National Condom Month features the endorsement of the use of condoms and generally campaigning for safe sex practices where companies producing condoms take the opportunity to drive their marketing strategy.
History of National Condom Month
The history of condoms dates back many centuries. Since they’ve been around, condoms have served birth control efforts and protective measures against sexually transmitted diseases. The oldest condoms to have ever been found were in a cesspit on the grounds of Dudley Castle in England. The condoms dated back to circa 1642. Condoms have been made from a variety of materials; before the 19th century, they were made from chemically treated linen and animal tissue.It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that rubber condoms gained popularity with more advancements influencing the manufacture of condoms by the early 20th century. For many years, condoms were the most popular birth control method in the Western world. The latex condom was invented in 1920, replacing rubber ones. Latex condoms required less labor to produce than cement-dipped rubber condoms, which had to be smoothed by rubbing and trimming; it eliminated the fire hazard previously associated with all condom factories. Latex condoms also proved to be the better alternative for consumers as they were stronger and thinner than rubber condoms and had a shelf life of five years (compared to three months for rubber ones).As quality testing for condoms became more of a requirement, various testing methods were conducted such as filling each condom with air intended to detect any loss of pressure. Scandalously, some American companies sold their factory rejects under cheaper brand names rather than discarding them. The 1920s was also such a remarkable decade for condoms as sales doubled during that time. In the U.S., condom advertising was legally restricted to its use as disease prevention. Britain however, allowed vendors to openly market condoms as a means of birth control, although due to the country’s relatively conservative nature, purchasing condoms publicly was socially awkward in comparison to the U.S. The largest pharmacy chain in Britain, Boots, ceased to sell condoms altogether in the 1920s, and that policy stood for about 40 years.In the late 20th century, the affordability of condoms made family planning programs accessible throughout the developing world. Condoms have also become highly relevant in the battle against AIDS.
National Condom Month timeline
he Oldest Condom is Found] The oldest condoms ever excavated are found in a cesspit located on the grounds of Dudley Castle, in England.
The first rubber condom is created by Charles Goodyear, heralding the creation of rubber condoms by other companies.
A judge rules that the advertisement of condoms is legal; a decision which would later spread to other jurisdictions.
The latex condom is invented in 1920, with Youngs Rubber Company being the first company to create a latex condom.
National Condom Month FAQs
Are condoms effective against S.T.I.s?
Condoms, if and when used right, are effective against sexually transmitted infections, as they act as a sheath that prevents direct skin contact between genitalia.
How are condoms tested?
Condoms are tested either by being filled with air or water or by getting stretched.
Are condoms effective against pregnancy?
With consistent and correct use, condoms are nearly 100% effective in preventing pregnancy.
How to Observe National Condom Month
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Create awareness
In the spirit of National Condom Month, you could educate some of your friends and colleagues about the importance of condoms. Inform yourself first by using online resources and share any new knowledge you come across.
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Join the conversation online
A lot of news trends start from social media hashtags and they go viral when everybody starts joining the conversation. So, you can do your bit during National Condom Month by taking part.
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Practice safe sex
The primary use of condoms is as a contraceptive, but as time has progressed, condoms have also been used as a means of protection against sexually transmitted diseases (S.T.D.s) and infections (S.T.I.s.) So, plan ahead and do the right thing for yourself and your partner.
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CONDOMS
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Condoms give more protection during sex
With regards to S.T.Is and S.T.Ds, using a condom during sex is safer than unprotected sex.
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Sex with condoms is just as pleasurable
Many individuals opine that condoms may make sex less enjoyable, however, experts have proved that using a condom during sex is just as pleasurable.
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Condoms are affordable
The condom is the cheapest contraceptive making it easily accessible.
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Condoms are medically safe
Condoms are proven to be safe for use even in the case of latex allergies as there are latex-free options available on the market.
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There are also female condoms
Females are also empowered to use condoms with a female option available to them.
Why National Condom Month is Important
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Condoms are an alternative contraceptive
Condoms are relatively safer than other contraceptives and have no known side effects. So, if you’re having sex for recreation and not procreation, condoms are a good way to go.
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Condoms help prevent S.T.Is and S.T.Ds
Condoms are a major advancement in the prevention of S.T.Ds and S.T.Is such as H.I.V. which causes AIDS. Many other S.T.Ds can cause major lifelong problems such as infertility, so it is important to take preventative measures.
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Condoms provide safety
Condoms are the safety net every sexually active person needs. They’re inexpensive and readily available, and using them correctly can help prevent the transmission of many S.T.D.s.
National Condom Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | February 1 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | February 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
