Condoms: The Yucky Words

Source: Teezitnow Blog



by Teez It intern Gema

Tired of the raised eyebrows, the whining “ew, gross” that comes with showing the thin square that holds a condom? Just seeing a broken wrapper on the floor makes some girls want to gag, or so they claim. The dramatic response doesn’t only come from girls, though. Even though the year is 2010, some boys still frown upon girls carrying around a condom. The possibility of sex creates sexual tension so thick it creates its own atmosphere. This is why I think the mere word “condom” is taboo. It brings up a topic that some feel too uncomfortable to discuss. It brings up questions that many people do not have the courage to ask.

* How experienced is he/she?
* Does he/she expect sex today?
* Does he/she only want sex?
* Does he/she have sex with every person he/she dates?
* Does he know how to use it?

But what people don’t understand is that these questions need to be asked. If anything, condoms should be applauded for bringing up the issue.

People should not feel uncomfortable when the word condom is brought up or if they see one. If anything, they should feel relieved to know that the other person is protected. It’s all about: safety, safety, safety. Even if you’re practicing abstinence, condoms are a precaution. Nobody is perfect. Everyone is bound to stumble upon temptation someday. It’s better to be prepared than to deal with an unwanted pregnancy or an STD. Condoms evoke responsibility, preparedness and knowledge of consequences.

So how can we transport a condom from being taboo to acceptable? Personally, I think it will only stop being a taboo when we stop treating it as a taboo. It starts with the family. The word condom should not be whispered or shushed. It should be inserted into normal conversation. Whether it’s at the dinner table, on the way home from church or during movie night, the word should never be censored if the topic comes up.

Another way we can change the connotation of the word condom is by making it cool. Greasy hair and bad breath aren’t cool. Being unprotected should be held on the same level as hygiene. Not protected? Not cool! Got a condom? Very cool! Our shirts are a great way to do this. The catchphrases are hilarious and they have condoms on the shirts. We need to the word socially acceptable. We need to make having a condom normal. “I have a helmet.” “I have a kneepad.” “I have a condom.” None of those things should be considered scandalous.

Stop the taboo today. Go outside and yell it loud and proud: “I THINK CONDOMS ARE COOL!”