Correlates of condom use at last intercourse among college students

The purpose of this study is to determine what influences whether or not people use condoms. We investigated the number of partners and condom consistency in relation to condom use at last sexual encounter.

We surveyed 404 college students at a southeast university using an anonymous questionnaire related to sexual behaviors. The average age of participants was 20.45, with 68.7% being female, and 78.9% being White.

Of those who had sexual intercourse, those who had 6 or more lifetime partners were less likely to have used a condom at last sexual encounter (p=0.005). Further, those who had sex more than once a week were less likely to use a condom (p=0.002). Those who were worried about getting STIs were 1.6 times more likely to use a condom at last sexual encounter. Those who reported being taught about HIV/AIDS were more likely to use a condom at last sexual encounter (p=0.021) Those who have been checked for STIs were 2.35 times more likely to not use a condom at last sexual encounter(p=0.001). The consistency of how often those who wear a condom have sex was significant (p=0.001) with the majority noting they “always” wear a condom.

The correlates of condom use seem to be related to risky sexual behaviors. Programs focusing on perceived susceptibility of STIs and unintended pregnancy should be investigated to increase the use of condoms at last sexual encounter. Further, the constant use of condoms should be addressed when examining interventions targeting college students.