How to Talk to Your Partner About Using Condoms (Without Killing the Mood)

Okay, let’s be real. You’re vibing, things are heating up, and then *bam!* you realize you need to talk about condoms. Cue the awkward pause, maybe a nervous laugh, and that moment where you both just kinda… hesitate. But here's the truth: using condoms is not just about being responsible. It’s about respect, confidence and feeling safe while still having a damn good time.

Talking about protection shouldn't feel like you're giving a TED Talk in the middle of a steamy make-out session. But if you’ve ever found yourself stressing about how to bring it up—or worse, in a situation where he doesn’t even have a condom—you’re not alone.

First, why it matters

We get it. In the heat of the moment, pausing to grab a condom can feel like a buzzkill. But nothing ruins the vibe faster than anxiety about STIs or unplanned pregnancies. And in the Philippines, that anxiety is real. According to the Department of Health, an average of 58 Filipinos were diagnosed with HIV every day as of 2024. That’s not a stat to ignore.

The rise in HIV cases—especially among the youth—just makes it even more essential to normalize the conversation around safe sex. Condoms are one of the easiest, most accessible ways to protect yourself. They’re affordable, available almost EVERYWHERE (and if you haven’t seen them yet, our all-new condoms for sure passes the vibe check with its aesthetic). The narrative that condoms are boring, uncomfy, or unsexy? Outdated.

So, how do you actually talk about it?

Honestly, the trick is to treat condoms like any other essential item in your bag—like lip gloss or breath mints. Something that’s not a big deal, but important to have. When you bring it up with your partner, the energy you put into it really matters. If you make it awkward, it’ll feel awkward. But if you bring it up casually, it’s more likely to go smoothly.

Try something like: “Hey, do you have a condom?” or “I brought some just in case.” Framing it like a team effort—we’re both making this a safe and satisfying moment—takes the pressure off. You’re not accusing or demanding; you’re collaborating.

If you're in a relationship, talking about condom use outside the bedroom is even better. You can bring it up while watching a show, during a chill walk, or when you're both relaxed. Having the discussion before you even get into the moment can help take the pressure off. It doesn’t have to be all serious, but it should be honest. Let them know that using condoms makes you feel safer, more confident and able to fully enjoy the moment.

What if he doesn’t have a condom?

Ugh! The dreaded “I don’t have one.” You’re there, he’s there, the vibes are immaculate… and now what?

First, don’t let anyone guilt you into going condom-free. If he says something like “But it doesn’t feel the same,” or “Just this once,” that’s a huge red flag. Your pleasure and safety matter, and there’s nothing wrong with putting a pause on things if protection isn’t on hand.

Now, this is where being prepared really helps. Keep a few condoms in your bag or nightstand. It’s not about being “too forward,” it’s about owning your pleasure. Trust us. Nothing says confidence like pulling out a condom and saying, “No worries, I got us covered.”

If he’s embarrassed that you have the condom, flip the script. Say something like, “I always like being prepared. It's a turn-on when both of us are on the same page.” Sexy and secure!

And if you're in a situation where you don’t have any condoms and neither does he? Take a rain check. Reschedule the hookup for another time, grab some condoms, and use that time to build anticipation instead. Safe sex doesn’t ruin the moment—it prolongs the fun without the panic later.

Why Gen Z is changing the game

Gen Z isn’t just having open convos about mental health and self-care—we’re also redefining what healthy sex looks like. Talking about STIs, condoms, and boundaries? It’s giving growth. Being the generation that’s sex-positive and safety-conscious is powerful. And the more we normalize this kind of convo, the less awkward it becomes for everyone.

Whether you're just starting to explore your sexuality or you've been in the dating game for a while, remember: talking about protection is hot. It shows you care about your body, your partner, and your shared experience.

So next time things start heating up, don’t shrink away from the condom talk. Say it with confidence. Say it with clarity. And if all else fails, toss a few cute ones in your bag—you never know when they’ll come in handy.