Condom use in the UK reaches historic low, according to new statistics

Condom use in the UK has reached an all-time low, according to new statistics, despite the number of sexually transmitted diseases rising and the country's sexual health services being “stretched to breaking point”.

Condoms, rubbers, love gloves – whatever you call them, condoms are the only birth control method that can prevent sexually transmitted infections, HIV and pregnancy. And even though that little ticket (if you know what we mean) is even thinner these days and less likely to inhibit sensation, only 15% of people bought condoms this year.

According to new statistics from Durex on condom use in the UK, sexually active people in the country are buying fewer condoms than the rest of the world (28%), ranking the UK 33rd out of 36 countries surveyed on condom use last year.

Only 11% of respondents said they always use condoms, which is alarming given the rising number of sexually transmitted infections in the country. Things aren't looking good for us Brits in the bedroom.

Those who decided not to buy condoms cited a perceived lack of sensation (16%), a lack of spontaneity (14%) and the thought that they might spoil the mood (13%) as reasons for their refusal.

Sex expert Alix Fox commented on the findings: “I am very concerned about the statistics on the shockingly low level of condom use in the UK.

“It is time for Britain to change its mindset and its approach, to make condom abandonment a thing of the past and move towards a future where people are better protected.”