Investigating Condom Use: Exploring Perceived Barriers and Benefits Among South-Asian International College Students in the US

Objectives: Despite the substantial presence of South-Asian international students in the United States, research on their sexual health remains limited. The current research aims to fill this gap by investigating condom use and perceived barriers and benefits among South-Asian international students at a Midwest university.

Method: A cross-sectional exploratory study design was employed, with data collected through an online survey. Participants (N = 104) completed a questionnaire assessing condom use behavior, perceived barriers, and benefits, as well as demographic information.

Results: Results indicated that most participants reported using condoms during sexual intercourse. Common barriers to condom use include embarrassment, concerns about reduced sexual pleasure, and lack of knowledge. Perceived benefits included protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, providing a sense of security, and reducing worry and anxiety. Logistic regression analysis did not identify statistically significant predictors of condom use among South-Asian international students.

Conclusion: Findings underscores the need for culturally sensitive sexual health interventions tailored to the unique needs of this population. Future research should explore additional factors influencing condom use and employ larger sample sizes to enhance understanding and inform targeted interventions.