What We Don’t Say About Condoms

Hey, tribe!Episode 6 of What We Don’t Say is here:What We Don’t Say About Condoms*A Practical Guide to Fit, Feel, Pleasure, and Protection*Most of us have heard the phrase “just use protection.” But how many of us were actually taught how to choose a condom, determine the right fit, understand which materials and lubricants work together, or talk about condoms without embarrassment?Condoms may be familiar, but familiarity is not the same as understanding.In this episode, we’re having a broader, more honest conversation about:* External and internal condoms* Fit, materials, textures, and lubrication* Comfort, sensation, and pleasure* Using condoms with sex toys* Common mistakes that may increase the chance of breakage* Communicating your boundaries and negotiating condom use* How condoms can fit into a larger sexual health and prevention planI also share my personal experience using an internal condom—including the honest truth about what it felt like the first time—and introduce a memorable way to remember the steps for using an external condom correctly.This episode is not about treating condoms as a morality test. They are tools. The more we understand how those tools work, the better prepared we are to make choices rooted in consent, pleasure, communication, and care.We’ve officially made it to Episode 6, which means we are more than halfway through the first 10 episodes of What We Don’t Say. Thank you for continuing to listen, reflect, and make room for these conversations with me.After you listen, I want to hear from you:What is something you wish you had been taught about condoms before you became sexually active?If this episode answers a question you have—or one you never felt comfortable asking—please share it with someone who may need it.Until next time, stay curious, stay compassionate, and keep making room for the conversations that matter.With care,Jarissa E. Greenard, M.A. Ed.Host of What We Don’t Say This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit greenardcollective.substack.com