We’re all for letting loose, hitting up happy hour, and having some fun, but not at the risk of your sexual health. Forty percent of women say that they are more likely to have sex without a condom if they’ve been drinking, according to a new study conducted by the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA).
ASHA surveyed 925 women aged 16 to 25 in the U.S. They also found that only 33 percent of women said they would pack a condom before a night out and only half of the women surveyed felt comfortable buying or obtaining condoms on their own.
MORE: When Is It OK to Go Without a Condom?
First of all, let’s just toss out any stigma against women buying or carrying condoms. They’re the best way to protect yourself against STDs, and there is nothing to be ashamed of about that—especially when a recent study revealed that there are more the 20 million new STD cases a year in the U.S. Need more incentives? Condoms can also help keep your vagina healthy, and a recent study found they really don’t affect men or women’s enjoyment of sex.
MORE: The Best New Condoms For Your Pleasure
If you are still feeling iffy about carrying around rubbers, you might be interested in these new female-centric brands. Lovability Condoms sells a cute, round tin filled with condoms, which looks like makeup or mints from the outside. And what makes it even more discreet is that you can have them shipped right to your door. Another brand, L. Condoms, features delivery condoms that pack surprising benefits. The condoms themselves are lubricated and free of glycerin and parabens; plus, every purchase gives a condom to a developing country in need. (They also have a hilarious commercial that we’re kind of obsessed with.) With all these options and benefits, we can’t think of a reason ot to stock up.
MORE: How Men Really Feel About Using Condoms