The convergence of Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day is deliberate, underscoring the importance of prioritizing health within intimate relationships. The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are reinforcing this message by offering free condoms to facilitate safer sexual practices and overall well-being.
While Valentine’s Day is traditionally marked by expressions of affection like gifts and outings, RHHD emphasizes that responsible sexual health should be an integral component of any romantic observance.
“Employing a condom represents a crucial measure in safeguarding one’s sexual health,” stated Elaine Perry, M.D., Director of Richmond and Henrico Health Districts. “When utilized properly, condoms demonstrate substantial efficacy in preventing the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including syphilis and HIV. Incorporate condoms into your Valentine’s Day preparations alongside customary tokens of affection, ensuring both romance and protection.”
Virginia STI Data Sexually transmitted infections continue to pose a significant challenge to public health across the Commonwealth of Virginia. In 2024, over 54,000 STI cases were documented statewide. A particularly concerning trend is the marked increase in syphilis diagnoses among women, with newly reported cases rising by 144% between 2020 and 2024. During the same period, Richmond City experienced a 117% increase in newly diagnosed syphilis cases across all genders, while Henrico County saw a 65% rise.
Virginia also witnessed a continuation of increasing congenital syphilis cases – the transmission of syphilis from a pregnant person to their infant during pregnancy or delivery – for the fifth consecutive year. In 2024, 35 cases of congenital syphilis were identified among newborns, representing the highest number recorded in the state in over three decades.
The Virginia Department of Health addresses this issue through its statewide Condom Distribution Program, aiming to mitigate the spread of HIV and other STIs by providing readily available, cost-free protection.
Free condoms are accessible at RHHD locations and through a network of community partners. Individuals seeking nearby distribution points can call 804-205-3500 for assistance. Organizations interested in becoming distribution sites are encouraged to contact the HIV-STD Hotline Supervisor at HIV-stdhotline@vdh.virginia.gov; eligible organizations may order up to 100,000 condoms annually.
RHHD also provides guidance on preventative medical interventions, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV and doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) to prevent STIs. To explore these options, call 804-664-2125.
This Valentine’s Day, prioritize a memorable experience, not a regrettable diagnosis.
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