Condom Use by Teens During Vaginal Bleeding

Intercourse during menstruation is associated with increased risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including hepatitis and HIV. Investigators assessed the likelihood of condom use with sex during vaginal bleeding (most likely menses) among 385 urban adolescent girls (mean age, 16.7; 89% black).

In partner-specific daily records of sexual activity, vaginal sex was reported on 6.8% of days. Of these events, 3.2% occurred during menses. Condom use was reported at similar rates for vaginal sex with and without reported bleeding (26% and 28%, respectively). Prior reports of condom use during menstruation were strongly associated with subsequent condom use during menstruation.