The landscape of sexual health discussions is constantly evolving, but one thing remains clear: the health and safety of young people is a big deal! You might think that adolescent pregnancies and STIs are on the decline, which could lead to a fading focus on safe sex. But surprise! Research tells a different story.
According to a recent WHO report, there’s been a noticeable dip in condom use among adolescents across Europe from 2014 to 2022, putting young people at greater risk for STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Condom use at last intercourse dropped from 70% to 61% for boys and from 63% to 57% for girls. Nearly one-third, 30%, of adolescents reported using neither condoms nor birth control. And it gets even more concerning. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) found that in 2022, STI cases shot up compared to the previous year, with gonorrhoea rising by 48%, syphilis by 34%, and chlamydia by 16%.
The downward trend in condom use alongside rising STI rates should concern not only the SRHR community but anyone invested in public health. However, not all is lost—there are actionable solutions to increase contraceptive use, as both reports conclude sex education is key, and we think we need to take it a step further with pleasure-inclusive comprehensive sexuality education! We need to rethink our conversation around contraception—not as a hassle, but as a way to ramp up the fun of one’s sex life. After all, most people are engaging in sex because it feels good, so why not frame contraceptives as the key to even more pleasure? Let’s make safe sex sexy!
Supporting people in forming safe sexual practices is crucial for creating a healthy, happy society. To do that, we need to teach and engage with the topic in ways that make people excited to use contraceptives while busting misconceptions about safe sex. As we move toward a more sex-positive world, it’s vital to make sure contraception stays relevant—and stays sexy.
It’s important to remember that contraception can actually add to sexual experiences. It gives you the freedom to enjoy intimacy on your own terms, without the constant anxiety of unintended pregnancies or STIs. This peace of mind brings a level of confidence that’s undeniably attractive. When you’re not distracted by the “what ifs,” you can focus more on your, and your partner’s, pleasure.
Speaking of pleasure, using condoms and other forms of contraception shows care for your partner’s health, which deepens intimacy. Mutual respect makes sex more connected, enjoyable, and fulfilling. There’s nothing sexier than peace of mind—contraception helps you relax, be fully present, and make the experience more pleasurable for both partners.
Of course, choosing the right contraception involves a little research. Each option has its pros and cons, but the key is finding what works for you in each situation. Whether it’s the pill, condoms, IUDs, or implants, there’s a method that aligns with your needs and lifestyle. And experimenting with different options—hello, textured condoms or long-term protection like IUDs—can add variety to your sex life.
Those of us who work in SRHR need to ask: Why aren’t young people using contraception as much? What barriers do they face? Is it a lack of information, access to free and affordable methods, or trusted adults to ask questions? Is it a lack of positive stories and examples of contraceptive use? Too often, contraception is framed as something that kills the mood, or worse, it’s only discussed when it fails. It’s time to shift that narrative. Whether it’s misinformation or concerns about convenience, we need to highlight the pleasure and empowerment that contraception can bring.
We need to work together to advocate for comprehensive sexuality education that not only teaches the “how” of contraception but also focuses on the role of contraceptives in enhancing pleasure, safety, and connection. By shifting the narrative about contraception, we can remove the stigma and help normalise safe sex as hot sex.
Contraception isn’t just about protection—it’s about more fulfilling, worry-free sex. It’s time to make contraception part of the fun, not just part of the plan. To learn more, check out our zine below on contraception and if this is an area you’re passionate about, consider joining our Community of Practice on contraception and abortion.
This zine is here to celebrate World Contraceptive Day and to spark conversations around the evolving landscape of sexual health. Contraception is more than just a method of preventing pregnancy—it’s a way to take control, stay safe, and make sex even more enjoyable.
With STI rates rising and condom use declining, we’re faced with a challenge: how do we keep safe sex relevant and, more importantly, sexy? In these pages, we’ll explore the current state of contraception, dive into practical, pleasure-based approaches, and remind us that contraceptives can empower people to take control of their sexual health.
This zine isn’t just about facts and figures—it’s about changing the conversation and making contraception a natural, positive part of people’s lives. Let’s break down stigma, uplift inclusivity, and make sure everyone has the knowledge and tools to make the best choices for their bodies. Dive in, get informed, and join us in creating a future where contraception is both sexy and safe for all.
