TO THE EDITOR:
After reading Condoms: not a public good, the sexual wellness specialists at UNC Student Wellness were thrilled to see that condom dispensers are inspiring discussion around condom use. However, we feel the column highlights important misunderstandings about the initiative.
Mr. Lippig asks: “Did the University seek to shelter students from STDs?” and “Did the University want to prevent student pregnancy?” The answer to both is an enthusiastic “yes!” The dispensers were installed to expand awareness and availability of condoms to students, who are particularly at risk for unintended pregnancy and STIs, both of which have been associated with poor academic achievement, low graduation rates and further health issues.
A wealth of literature demonstrates that increasing condom availability and accessibility increases safer sex in various populations, including college-aged adults. In one study, 84 percent of those picking up a free condom used condoms during most recent sex, compared to 43 percent of those who did not pick up a free condom. (Studies also show that providing condoms doesn’t increase sexual behavior.) In a survey on campus, about half of students didn’t use condoms consistently, with cost and convenience as the most commonly reported obstacles.
A point was raised regarding condoms being wasted or not going to the target audience. From a public health perspective, anyone using a condom is the target audience. However, dispensers are not intended to be students’ only condom source. They will inevitably become empty, despite being refilled weekly (which speaks to their popularity and need).
Fortunately, other condom sources exist: Campus Health Services, residence halls and local pharmacies, among others. The goal of this project was not to spend more money to provide more condoms, but rather to use existing designated funds, along with those from campus partners, grants and private contributions, to provide a fixed amount of condoms more wisely.
To “wrap up,” providing condoms is a “good fit” for UNC. The dispensers help normalize, de-stigmatize and address known obstacles to condom use — an incredibly important aspect of sexual health.
Katelyn Bryant-Comstock
UNC Student Wellness
