National Condom Week starts the week of Valentine’s Day. Condoms have had a revolutionary effect on society and have allowed couples all over the world to enjoy sexual freedom without worrying about sexually transmitted diseases or conceiving a baby before they’re ready.

This is especially true in developing countries where citizens have limited access to medical care. So, everyone who has reaped the benefits of using condoms should take the time to celebrate this auspicious holiday week.

The History of National Condom Week

Some people seem to think that this holiday week was started only a few years ago, but in reality, the celebration of this week has been ongoing for at least 44 years. It was first started in 1978 by students at the University of California, Berkeley. It started off as a one-off event but has been observed yearly over the past few decades.

Interesting Facts About Condoms

Below are some of the more interesting facts about condoms that we learned while researching this holiday.

• Condoms have been used by humans for at least 15,000 years.
• Early condoms were fashioned from sheep intestines.
• Approximately 25% of all sex acts involving vaginal intercourse are protected by a condom.
• As far as HIV transmission is concerned, wearing a condom makes sex 10,000 times safer.

Observing National Condom Week

Every year, this holiday is not only celebrated by couples eager to get to their holiday celebrations but is also used to raise awareness about social issues. Organizations raising awareness about AIDS and other STDs often use this holiday to inform the public of how condoms can be used to reduce a couple’s risk of contracting these diseases.