One of the best ways that you can avoid the need to take an STD test is to wear a condom. Condoms have long proven to be an effective deterrent against STDs such as gonorrhea and syphilis, but many people still make excuses to avoid wearing one. Although some reasons are genuine, there are a few that should not be permitted as excuses as they can increase the risk of catching an STD.

So what are the most common excuses people make for not using a condom?

It Reduces Sensitivity

Some people complain that condoms lead to reduced sensitivity. While there may be some truth to this, it is not a good enough reason to decide not to use a condom where there is a risk of catching an STD. There are also ways around this – an ultra-thin condom can be a great alternative that will increase sensitivity and will not put your safety in jeopardy. Use one of these and a trip to the clinic for an STD test shouldn’t be necessary.

It Doesn’t Work

Of all the excuses for not using a condom, this is the most unfounded. Condoms have been proven to dramatically reduce the chances of contracting an STD, despite some people propagating the myth that condoms do not work. The fact is that they are the number-one way of making sure you can avoid the need to take an STD test.

It Spoils the Moment

There are some who claim that the spontaneity of the moment is ruined when you have to put on a condom. But this can easily be bypassed by making the condom into a fun part of the event, rather than something that gets in the way. If you really can’t accept making it part of the routine, then first stop to think; would you rather face having to take an STD test instead?

It’s Difficult to Put On

This really doesn’t stand up as an excuse. Even if you do experience trouble putting on a condom then there’s a simple way to get over this; practice. Once you’ve mastered the technique (and it won’t take long), there is no excuse for not using a condom and it will help to prevent you from contracting an STD. Test out the technique when you’re alone until you get it right, and then enjoy the moment free from complications.

It’s Embarrassing

This has to be the lamest excuse of all. You should be proud of the fact you’re wearing a condom, not ashamed. Get over your embarrassment and reduce the need to take an STD test. If you really can’t bear to buy a condom over the counter, there are plenty of vending machines in clubs and bars across the country.

Get Over the Excuses and Use a Condom

A condom really is one of the best ways to reduce the need for an STD test. And if you do have an STD test, you can go in with confidence knowing that you have taken all the possible precautions.

Of course, there are some valid reasons for not wearing a condom. And at the end of the day, the choice is yours. But if you do decide not to use a condom then at least make sure that you’re not just making feeble excuses, and that you are using some other form of contraception that also protects you from catching an STD.