Decreased Sex Pleasure due to Using Condoms? Here's the Real Fact

JAKARTA - Condom use is often associated with the assumption of reduced pleasure during sexual intercourse. Not a few married couples feel that the use of condoms makes the sensation different so that it is considered to interfere with intimate moments.

However, this view is not entirely correct. Clinical Training Manager DKT Indonesia, dr. Erika explained, the use of condoms does not reduce satisfaction in sexual relations.

"Using condoms is not pleasant, that is the impression that often arises. In fact, in the sexual pleasure of married couples, the most important thing is the skill of the couple," he said in the "MAU KALO PAKE KONDOM" campaign from Sutra in Jakarta, Friday, February 13, 2026.

According to Dr. Erika, sexual pleasure is influenced by many factors, ranging from communication between partners, the quality of foreplay, stimulation variations, to the duration of the relationship from the beginning to climax.

He emphasized that condoms should not be positioned as a barrier, but as a supporting tool. The sense of security that it provides allows couples to be more relaxed and open to exploring intimate relationships without excessive worries.

"If you look at it, the pleasure of sex can be influenced by many things, such as its duration, the time from foreplay to climax. There are so many ways," he explained.

The use of condoms during sex can actually add variety in achieving sexual pleasure. For example, the development of technology today also makes condom choices more diverse.

Now there are condoms with super thin, textured designs, to various other variations designed to increase sensations. This innovation can at least refute the assumption that condoms are considered to reduce pleasure.

On the other hand, in addition to supporting the quality of intimate relationships, condoms have three main functions that are medically important. First, as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy.

World Health Organization (WHO) data states that if used correctly and consistently, male condoms have an effectiveness rate of around 98 percent in preventing pregnancy.

In typical use, the effectiveness is about 85 percent due to the use error factor.

"Condoms are one of the effective methods of contraception if used properly," said dr. Erika.

In addition to preventing pregnancy, condoms play a role in protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Consistent condom use has been scientifically proven to reduce the risk of transmission of these diseases.

"Condoms are not only about preventing pregnancy, but also protecting against sexually transmitted infections. This is very important, especially for long-term reproductive health," he explained.

Third, condoms help create a sense of psychological safety. When couples feel protected from the risk of unplanned pregnancies and STIs, anxiety levels are reduced so that intimate relationships can be enjoyed more comfortably.

In this case, a proper understanding of the function and benefits of condoms can change the perception that this tool reduces pleasure during sex.