Is Condom Use Habit Forming?

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess whether using a condom at adolescent sexual debut is associated with an increased likelihood of subsequent condom use. STUDY DESIGN: A nationally representative sample was used, including 4024 sexually active adolescents (12-18 years) from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Logistic regression was used to model the association of condom use at sexual debut on condom use at most recent sex (mean interval, 23 months). RESULTS: Condom use at adolescent sexual debut was associated with a twofold increased likelihood of condom use during most recent sex (odds ratio, 2.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.91-2.73). CONCLUSIONS: Among adolescents, early condom use is associated with an increased likelihood of subsequent condom use.