FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2010

Media Contact:
ASHA Media Relations
P.O. Box 13827
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Fred Wyand
(919) 361 - 3124 (voice)
(919) 361 - 8425 (fax)
mediarelations@ashastd.org

ASHA Recognizes February as National Condom Month

RTP, NC – As Cupid takes flight this month the American Social Health Association (ASHA) wants lovers everywhere to be smart and be safe. To that end, ASHA recognizes February as National Condom Month 2010.

Over 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occur in the U.S. each year, but many have no symptoms and go undetected. While condoms don’t offer 100% protection against STIs, the evidence is overwhelming that among those who are sexually active, consistent and correct condom use greatly reduces the risk of contracting infections like HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Research has also shown that young women whose male partners use condoms regularly cut their risk of acquiring HPV significantly.

Lynn B. Barclay, ASHA president and CEO, says people don’t practice safer sex for a variety of reasons: “People think they aren’t at risk because they have few partners, they don’t notice any obvious signs, or because STIs only happen to ‘other people.’ The reality is anyone who has sex can be at risk, regardless of age or background. Safer sex is important for all of us.”

Reluctant partners are another reason people don’t always use condoms. “One of the biggest reported hurdles to safer sex is negotiating condom use with partners,” Barclay says. “There may be pressure to have unprotected sex ‘just this once,’ or maybe a partner will complain that it doesn't feel the same with a condom. ASHA's web site has a section with tips on talking with partners who are reluctant to practice safer sex.” Barclay adds that female condoms are an excellent alternative when a male partner can't or won't use a condom.

In recognition of National Condom Month, check out these ASHA resources:

• ASHA's updated video on proper condom use
• Tips on talking with partners about condoms and safer sex
• How to use male and female condoms

The American Social Health Association (ASHA) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1914 to improve the health of individuals, families, and communities, with a focus on educating about and preventing sexually transmitted infections. ASHA's educational web sites include: www.ASHAstd.org , www.iwannaknow.org (teen site), and www.quierosaber.org (Spanish language teen site).