There’s a point in most people’s lives where condoms are a source of humour. But mostly it’s horrifying embarrassment.

Admittedly, that might have been in high school when boys were putting them over their heads, or during early sexual experiences when you weren’t entirely sure how to put them on (thanks so much, sex ed).

But for many of us, the odd shame surrounding them has taken some time to shake off, whether you’re buying condoms at the chemist, or one has fallen out your purse.

Thankfully, we’re in a time of increasing sexual progressiveness, openness and understanding, particularly from a female-identifying perspective.

And there are condom brands taking that on board. Take Hanx, which boasts Instagram-worthy packaging, and are 100% natural, vegan and subtly scented (and they have a subscription service that delivers to you).

So, to illustrate the shift in conversation (and feelings) around condoms, we spoke to five women about how their attitudes have changed…

These 'then' vs 'now' stories show how attitudes towards condoms are changing