Using condoms can be a ninja way to easily protect against pregnancy if used correctly. However, there are some mistakes you should avoid because they can reduce their effectiveness.
Some people think condoms are the primary means of protection against pregnancy and the risk of STIs. However, condoms are simply a common aid and aren’t 100 percent effective in protecting against all the risks.
Mistakes in condom use that need to be avoided
Correct condom use plays a key role in achieving maximum protection. Before using one, understand its advantages and disadvantages and avoid common mistakes that can diminish its effectiveness. Here are some of them, Mom:
1. Not doing an STD test
Condoms are effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections, but they aren’t perfect. They offer the most protection against infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis A and B, and HIV, but they aren’t always effective against other STIs. This is because not all STIs are transmitted through fluids, meaning there’s still a risk of transmission through skin-to-skin contact because condoms don’t cover the entire genital area.
2. Reusing condoms
Never wash or reuse a used condom. Used condoms are not considered reliable in preventing pregnancy and STDs.
3. Using condoms that don’t fit
Penises come in various shapes and sizes, just like condoms. If a condom doesn’t fit properly, its contraceptive benefits won’t be maximized. Also, avoid using condoms that are too tight, as they are more likely to tear, and condoms that are too large are more likely to slip off.
4. Using condoms stored in your wallet
A person who continuously sits on a condom and heats it up will reduce its protective benefits, says Dr. Brian A. Levine, MD, a fertility and reproductive endocrinologist.
5. Using a condom is the best way to avoid pregnancy.
“Condoms are a good form of contraception, but they’re not perfect,” says Dr. Levine. Previous contraceptive studies have shown that external condoms (those worn over the penis) are 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly.
6. Not checking the condom wrapper and seeing whether there are any tears or not.
Even though it takes more time to check this, before using it, it is necessary to look at the details of the condom wrapper itself to ensure it is intact.
7. Not putting on the condom correctly
The rolled edge of the external condom should be on the outside, facing away from the penis. So, make sure to use it correctly.
8. Using expired condoms
Check condom expiration dates regularly. Some condoms contain spermicides or other ingredients that break down over time and don’t work as well. If a condom is expired, it won’t be as safe or effective as a condom that hasn’t expired.
9. Only doing it on the tip of the penis without protection
This act is actually the riskiest form of foreplay when performed without a condom. Theoretically, it could still result in pregnancy. While pre-ejaculate may not contain sperm, it can technically carry some live sperm present in the urethra.
10. Forgetting to pinch the tip of the condom
The small reservoir tip at the top of the external condom serves a purpose: to collect sperm. Skipping this step can cause sperm to leak out of the base of the condom.
11. Use two condoms for extra safety.
There’s no reason to use two condoms at once. One is enough to ensure safe sex. In fact, friction between two condoms makes each condom more likely to break, as quoted from Self .
12. Not changing condoms often enough
If your partner has ejaculated but wants to continue with a second round, change the condom immediately. Even if the penis isn’t completely flaccid, it’s possible that it may soften, allowing semen to escape.
13. Cuddling after orgasm
Sperm can leak out of the base of the condom, especially if your partner stays inside for too long. While it’s fun to cuddle, be aware that doing so without pulling out first can cause the condom to slip off the penis. If that happens, sperm can potentially enter the vagina.
14. Not using enough lubricant
If there’s too much friction, or if you change positions frequently, the condom could break. Make sure you have plenty of lubrication to avoid this problem.
15. Using the wrong type of lubricant
Look for water- or silicone-based lubricants, not oil-based ones, for use with latex condoms. Also, avoid using lotions, massage oils, or petroleum jelly as a lubricant substitute.
16. Not having a supply of condoms
Having spare condoms is a good idea to maintain a stockpile when needed, especially in case of rejection or other issues.
17. Not using a condom every time you should
For maximum condom effectiveness, use it throughout sex. However, only 59 percent of people who use condoms with other contraceptive methods consistently use them throughout, according to a 2014 study published in the journal Contraception. Researchers found that 35 percent of people initiated sex without a condom, and 6 percent removed the condom at some point during sex.
18. Not using a condom for oral sex
STI transmission during oral sex can occur when condoms are not used. Therefore, condom protection is still necessary.
19. Not considering using an internal condom
Internal condoms have undergone many developments and are worth trying. They are highly effective, and newer models are even quieter when used.
20. Having sex after the condom tears
If a condom tears, replace it immediately with a new one. Be sure to stop the session temporarily and ask your partner to withdraw, or you can withdraw yourself. Then, carefully remove the damaged condom and put on a new one.
21. Use natural condoms instead of latex
Some people are allergic to latex condoms and may try condoms made from lambskin and other materials. The CDC recommends avoiding these natural condoms if possible, as they are more porous than latex and therefore less effective against STIs.
So, Mom, those are the condom usage mistakes you should avoid to stay safe. I hope this information is helpful.
