Being a health promotion master’s student, I fully condone and encourage sexuality education, and I believe that promoting the proper use of contraception is a significant part of that education.

I was, however, stunned to see the Durex advertisement in Thursday’s Kernel. There were a number of things that I found objectionable about the advertisement: (1) the use of a threesome in the ad in the backseat of a car promotes multiple sex partners which is a dangerous activity; (2) the couples are obviously naked under the blanket, which in an open convertible is illegal; (3) there was no disclaimer with the ad that states correct information about the use of condoms.

Students should be aware that, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, condom use is not 100 percent effective against sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy. Condoms do not protect against all STDs, partly because other areas of contact and transmission are possible, and two out every 100 couples will get pregnant even if condom use is perfect for one year. With the typical use of condoms, 15 out of 100 sexually active couples will get pregnant within one year.

While I realize the Kernel needs advertising revenue to support the newspaper, the managing staff needs to review its policy on accepting ads of this type. If an ad like this is accepted, the Kernel should devote equal space to the correct information regarding condoms including correct use of the condom, statistics regarding effectiveness of the condom, and most importantly, how to be a responsible partner.

Nicole Peritore

health promotion graduate student