In Oxford, students at the University of Mississippi encounter an overflowing bowl of condoms at their gym's entrance, yet few take the initiative to grab one. According to Magan Perry, president of the Public Health Student Association, "Using a condom is just a big, 'uh, no.” The growing disinterest in condom use among both straight and queer students reflects a broader trend, as medical advancements and shifting attitudes contribute to fewer young people opting for protection. Dr. Joseph Cherabie, medical director of the St. Louis HIV Prevention Training Center, explains that past condom ads instilled fear, whereas current discussions focus on personal preferences. Despite fewer teens engaging in sexual activity, those who do are less likely to use condoms, with young adults aged 15 to 24 accounting for half of new STI cases in 2022. Sex education also plays a critical role, with Mississippi's restrictions on comprehensive curriculum leading to rising STI rates. Despite medical advancements like PrEP and Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, experts emphasize that condoms remain vital. Dr. Bradley Stoner from the CDC says, “We know that condom use has declined among some groups, but they still have an important role to play in STI prevention. Condoms can be accessed without navigating the health care system, can be used on-demand, are generally affordable and most importantly – they are effective at preventing HIV and STIs when used consistently and correctly.” As attitudes evolve and new prevention methods gain popularity, the discussion around safe sex and condom use continues to be a pressing concern for public health advocates. #Queer Up Health