Introduction: Why This Is Important
One of the best ways to avoid STIs and unwanted pregnancies is to use condoms correctly. Even though they are easy to find, studies show that many people still don’t use them correctly. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that almost one in three people who use condoms make at least one mistake while using them.
That’s why learning how to use condoms correctly is such an important part of sex education. This complete guide is for you if you’re new to this or just want to make sure you’re doing it right.
What is a condom?
A condom is a type of birth control that keeps bodily fluids from mixing during sex. There are two main types of them:
Condoms for men on the outside: On the penis.
Internal (female) condoms: These go inside the vagina.
We’ll mostly talk about external condoms in this article because they are more common.
Benefits of Using Condoms
Condoms are very important for having safe sex. Here’s why they are important: Stop STIs like HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea
Lower the chance of getting pregnant by accident
Easy to get without a prescription
No hormones, which makes them great for people who are sensitive
Encourage shared responsibility in sexual relationships
Picking the Right Condom
It’s important to choose the right condom before using it:
Size is important
There are different sizes of condoms: standard, snug, and large. A condom that is too tight can break, and one that is too loose can come off.
Types of materials
Latex: Most common and least expensive
Polyurethane or Polyisoprene: These are latex-free and great for people with allergies.
Lambskin: Only good for preventing pregnancy, not STIs
Greasing
Pre-lubricated: Good for lowering friction
Not lubricated: You have to add water-based or silicone-based lube yourself.
Don’t use oil-based lubricants like lotion or petroleum jelly with latex because they can break.
How to Use a Condom Correctly in Steps
Step 1: Look at the expiration date.
Always look at the condom wrapper to see when it expires. A condom that has passed its expiration date is more likely to break.
Step 2: Check the Packaging
Check the wrapper for air bubbles. Don’t use it if it’s flat or broken.
Step 3: Open Carefully
Use your fingers to open the wrapper. Never use scissors or your teeth, as they could hurt the condom.
Step 4: Pinch the Tip
Pinch the tip of the condom before putting it on to make room for sperm. This makes it less likely to break.
Step 5: Roll It Down
Put the condom on the tip of the erect penis and gently roll it down to the base. It should come apart easily. If it’s inside out, throw it away and get a new one.
Step 6: Put in some lubricant
If the condom isn’t slippery enough, add water-based lubricant to make it more comfortable and less slippery.
Step 7: After Sex
To keep the condom from slipping, hold it at the base when you pull it out. Do this while the penis is still hard.
Step 8: Throwing it away. Tie the end to keep it from spilling and wrap it in tissue before throwing it away. Don’t ever flush it down the toilet.
Things You Shouldn’t Do with Condoms
Don’t be one of the smart people who makes these mistakes! Not looking at the date of expiration
2 Use condoms at the same time (causes friction and tearing)
Not leaving room at the tip
Using oil-based lube on latex
Using a condom again
Taking it off too late after ejaculation
Important Stats
- The World Health Organization says that condoms are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly.
- According to a study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, up to 42% of sexually active people said they made mistakes when use condoms.
What Experts Say
“Use Condoms are still one of the best ways to avoid getting HIV and other STIs.” But they only work if you use them right every time.
— Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick, an expert in infectious diseases
When to Ask for Help
If you or your partner:
Are not sure how to use it correctly
Feel uncomfortable
Are allergic to latex
Want to look into other birth control methods
→ Get personalized advice by talking to a doctor, nurse, or sex health educator.
What is safe sex and why is it important?
A Modern Guide to Sex Education for Teens
Conclusion: Important Things to Remember
Responsible sex education includes teaching people how to use condoms correctly.
Always check the size, material, and expiration date.
Carefully follow each step, from opening the package to throwing it away correctly.
Don’t be too embarrassed to ask questions or get help.
You can have better, safer sex if you practice and feel good about your condom skills.