Condom use is less likely among African American adolescent females who believe "stopping" to apply condoms takes the fun out of sex

Objectives: The influence that female partners exert regarding condom use is not well known. This study tested the general hypothesis that personal preference may be a factor in condom use. Specifically, we investigated whether African American adolescent females who believed that “stopping to put condoms on takes the fun out of sex” would be less likely to report condom use. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 715 African-American adolescent females (15-21 years old) was conducted. Data was collected using an audio-computer assisted self-interview (A-CASI) lasting about 60 minutes. Results: Nearly one of every five adolescents (17.8%) agreed that stopping to put condoms on takes the fun out of sex. Compared to the remainder who did not hold this belief, those in agreement were significantly more likely to report having unprotected vaginal sex in the past 14 days (P=001) and the past 60 days (P=.002). They also less likely to report that a condom was used the last time sex occurred (P=.001). Moreover, the frequency of unprotected sex in the past 14 days (P=.002) and the past 60 days (P=.025) was significantly greater among those holding this belief. Conclusion: The weight of evidence suggests that African American adolescent females who view condom application as an interruption of sexual excitement and pleasure may indeed influence the non-use of condoms by their male partners. Further research regarding states of sexual arousal and condom negotiation may be warranted.