Despite being one of the largest consumers of condoms in the world, the use of condoms in India is still a taboo topic.

Many people in India do not use condoms even when they know about their benefits, leading to high instances of unplanned pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and other related health problems. This article aims to explore why some Indians do not use condoms.

One of the primary reasons for the low condom usage in India is the cultural and social beliefs surrounding sex. India is a conservative country as many people believe that sex before marriage is unacceptable and, therefore, do not practice safe sex.

Additionally, talking about sex and contraception is considered taboo in many parts of India, making it challenging to discuss condom use openly.

Cost and accessibility

Another reason why some Indians do not use condoms is due to the high cost and lack of accessibility. Condoms are relatively inexpensive and readily available in major cities in India, but the situation is different in rural areas.

In such places, condoms are scarce and often too costly for the locals to afford it.

Religion

India is a diverse country with different religions, and some religions’ beliefs do not permit the use of condoms. For instance, the Catholic Church believes that using contraception, including condoms, is against God’s law.

As a result, Catholics in India often avoid using condoms despite knowing their health benefits.

Ignorance and lack of education

Many Indians do not use condoms due to their lack of knowledge and education. Indian schools often do not provide adequate education about sex and contraception in their curricula.

Moreover, many rural areas do not have healthcare services that provide information on contraceptive methods and safe sex. As a result, many people are unaware of the benefits of using condoms, leading to a lack of interest in using them.

Gender inequality

Gender inequality is another significant reason why some Indians do not use condoms. India is a country where men are typically the breadwinners in families, and women often do not have a say regarding contraception use.

In many cases, the decision on whether to use a condom or not lies with the man, and women are left with no option but to comply. However, some men do not use condoms due to the belief that it reduces sexual pleasure or masculinity.

Alternative contraception methods

Some Indians do not use condoms but use other contraception methods instead. For example, people who use oral contraception do not need to use condoms as they are already protected from pregnancy.

The use of alternative contraception methods could explain why some Indians do not use condoms.

Negative perception of STIs

Another reason why some Indians do not use condoms is because they have a negative perception of STIs. In India, people associate STIs with promiscuity and immoral behavior.

Thus, many people think that they cannot contract STIs because they do not engage in such behaviors. This misconception leads to unprotected sex, increasing the chances of contracting STIs.

Misconceptions about condoms

Some Indians do not use condoms because they hold misconceptions about them. For instance, some people believe that condoms are unreliable, leading to unplanned pregnancy, or they do not provide enough protection against STIs.

Others believe that condoms reduce sexual pleasure and intimacy, leading them not to use them. Misconceptions regarding condoms could explain why some Indians do not use them.

Embarrassment while buying condoms

Finally, some Indians do not use condoms due to the embarrassment they feel when buying them. In India, buying condoms is still a taboo topic, and many people feel ashamed to purchase them in public.

Some people, especially the young, feel uncomfortable asking for condoms from pharmacies and drug stores. As a result, they may engage in unprotected sex, leading to STIs and unplanned pregnancies.

Conclusion

Condom usage in India remains low, even though they are an effective contraceptive method and protect against STIs.

The cultural and social beliefs surrounding sex, the high cost and lack of accessibility, religion, ignorance, gender inequality, alternative contraception methods, negative perceptions of STIs, misconceptions about condoms, and embarrassment while buying condoms are some of the main reasons why some Indians do not use condoms. It is essential to raise awareness about condoms and safe sex practices through education and mass media campaigns to prevent the spread of STIs and unplanned pregnancies.