Risky Behavior: 6/10 Americans Didn’t Use Protection First Time They Had Sex

No wonder STD rates in the United States are out of control—people are starting out the gate raw.

Results of Durex’s annual Sexual Wellbeing global survey found that 6 out of 10 Americans didn’t use protection when they lost their virginity. That fact alone is bad, but when you compare it to other countries like Mexico and Colombia who had lower rates of unprotected sex at 49% and 47%, this looks really bad. Of the 60% who didn’t practice safe sex their first time, only half (49%) were confident their sexual partner was free of STIs.

One out of five of all those in a relationship admit they are unsure of their partner’s experience—I’m not sure if that also means they are unsure of their partner’s status, but I hope not. Only about 24% of the women who had admitted to having unprotected sex said it was a mistake and they regretted it. I think the rest just got lucky (twice).

Sounds like Durex may need to up their advertising. The data from the 29,000 respondents (taken across 36 different countries) doesn’t bid to too well for their market penetration—or America’s sexual health.

What do you think about these stats? Are you surprised by how many people don’t use protection their first time? Make sure you always have safe sex practices.

Brande Victorian is a blogger and culture writer in New York City. Follower her on Twitter at @be_vic.