Durex survey reveals common misconceptions about sex among sexually active young adults

Sexually active young adults in Singapore are not as knowledgeable about sex as compared to their non-sexually active counterparts, according to a recent survey conducted by Durex.

The survey was conducted as part of Durex’s My Sex, My Way, The Safe Way campaign, which involved more than 400 respondents between the ages of 18 to 29 in Singapore. It sought to determine what they knew about sexual and reproductive health, as well as their sexual habits.

The results were shared in a press release on Aug 4, and revealed that sexually active adults consistently scored lower when it came to facts about Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)  and contraceptive methods.

Although 57 per cent of participants agreed that using a condom is an effective way of preventing an STI, there are still plenty of misconceptions regarding its usage among young adults.

According to the survey, 30 per cent of participants felt that two condoms were better than one and 43 per cent agreed that a tight condom offered better protection, both of which are untrue. According to DTAP Clinic’s chief medical officer Dr Jonathan Ti, a well-fitted and snug condom offers better protection.

Additionally, 23 per cent of participants also disagreed that condoms were effective in preventing STIs and unwanted pregnancy, which is also untrue. 

These misconceptions may be linked to how 39 per cent of participants look to porn as the top source of sex education, where condoms are rarely featured.

While misconceptions about sex were seen across both genders, sexually active men were 39 per cent more likely to get their facts wrong as compared to sexually active women, and 40 per cent more likely than non-sexually active men.

Dr Angela Tan, an intimacy coach and co-founder of the Academy of Relationship & Sex, said that these misconceptions will impact the lives of young people well into adulthood, including their married lives.

She said: “Misconceptions about contraception have a negative impact on young adults and their sex lives. Knowing how to properly use condoms will help them to feel safe and protected while  discovering themselves in their sexual journeys.”