The Winter Olympics are buzzing with excitement, but there’s a surprising twist. Free condoms for athletes ran out in just three days! This quick depletion has raised eyebrows and sparked conversations.
An athlete shared their frustration with the Italian newspaper La Stampa, stating, “They promised us more, but who knows when.” The relatively low number provided, nearly 10,000, is stark compared to the 300,000 distributed at the Paris Games two years ago. With about 3,000 athletes here, that’s hardly enough for everyone.
The governor of Lombardy, Attilio Fontana, believes providing condoms is essential. He noted this practice began at the Seoul Olympics in 1988 to promote awareness of sexually transmitted diseases. Fontana emphasized that such measures should not be embarrassing. His social media posts, including a clip of Spanish figure skater Olivia Smart showcasing the condoms, have gone viral.
In today’s climate, awareness and open discussions about sexual health are more important than ever. The 2022 National Health Statistics Report highlighted that around 19 million new sexually transmitted infections occur each year in the U.S. alone. Events like the Olympics open the door to these conversations.
While athletes await a new supply, they have plenty to keep them occupied in the Olympic village—like a gym, table games, and free drinks. The blend of sports, camaraderie, and awareness continues to shape the Olympic experience, making it not just about competition, but also about community and health.
For more on the Olympic health initiatives, you can check out this detailed CDC report.
