International Condom Day

International Condom Day History

International Condom Day seeks to promote the use of condoms as a means of preventing unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are thin rubber covers that a man wears on his penis during sexual intercourse as a contraceptive or as protection against STIs. Condoms are made from various materials such as latex, non-latex, lambskin, and even female condoms. Condoms, latex and, polyurethane versions, are the only method available to prevent transmission of STIs and HIV.

International Condom Day is promoted by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation as part of an effort to reduce the spread of HIV. Since its inception in 2009, it has been an informal observance celebrated in conjunction with Valentine's Day.

Top 10 Facts for International Condom Day in 2026

• The upcoming observance of International Condom Day on February 13, 2026, marks the continuation of a global initiative founded in 2009 by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation to promote safer sex practices just before Valentine's Day.
• A major highlight for the 2026 celebrations includes the staging of high-energy, burlesque-style productions such as Ohh Mamma!, a Mamma Mia!-inspired show featuring performances by RuPaul’s Drag Race star Kylie Sonique Love.
• The event often features a creative burlesque twist on the classic plot of West Side Story to deliver messages about sexual health through theatrical dance and humor.
• International Condom Day 2026 continues the global campaign titled Just Use It!, which aims to re-invigorate public education about condoms as a cost-effective tool for preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
• One of the most intriguing historical facts associated with the day is the legend of King Minos of Crete, who is said to have used a goat bladder as a protective sheath as early as 3000 B.C.
• The modern rubber condom was made possible by Charles Goodyear, who utilized his vulcanization process to produce the first rubber version of the device in 1855.
• In ancient times, the Egyptians utilized linen sheaths to protect against tropical diseases like Bilharzia, while early Japanese civilizations used a device called a Kabuto-Gata made of tortoise shell.
• Public health organizations emphasize that condoms are 98% effective in preventing pregnancy and have successfully averted an estimated 117 million new HIV infections globally since 1990.
• The World Health Organization recognizes the critical nature of this tool by including condoms on its Model List of Essential Medicines, signifying they are necessary for a basic health system.
• The 2026 observance will see the distribution of millions of free condoms, including the AIDS Healthcare Foundation's own specialty brands, Love and Icon.

In the News and Trending in the US for International Condom Day

Top things to do in the US for International Condom Day

• Say the Danish word for condom 10 times fast. Svangerskabsforebyggendemiddel
• Talk to your kids about safe sex and answer any questions they may have.
• Keep condoms on hand so there is no excuse to use them if the situation arises.
• Make a donation to the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA)
• Watch a movie or documentary about HIV/AIDS to understand the benefits of condoms. Some popular suggestions: Dallas Buyers Club (2013), Philadelphia (1993), Longtime Companion (1990), The Age of AIDS (2006) and AIDS, Inc (2007).