top of page

USE AND RISKS

Questions about the program or about sexual health in general? Send us a message using the form below: 

Your details were sent successfully!

Proper Condom Usage

 

A 2002 study that was conducted in a population of college men showed that a group of college men encounter "a variety of errors and problems that could contribute to condom failure" (study found here) . To lessen the likelihood of misusing a condom and increasing the risk for pregnancy or other STIs, follow the simple steps below. 

 

  1. Use a condom for each new sex act. This includes switching between anal, vaginal and orgal contact. This also means that you should use a new condom if you put it on inside out by accident. 

  2. Check the expiration date on the package, and inspect the package to make sure that it isn't damaged. If the condom is expired, don't use it. If the package appears to be damaged, get a new one. 

  3. Tear open the package carefully. Do not use teeth, nails, or scissors as these objects might damage the condom within.

  4. Put on the condom before any sexual contact occurs. Squeeze the tip gently so no air is trapped inside, and unroll the condom all the way down the erect penis to the base. 

  5. Immediately after ejaculation, hold the base of the condom in place and withdraw. Not holding the condom in place while withdrawing could cause some of the semen to fall out, risking pregnancy. 

  6. Dispose of the condom by wrapping in a tissue and throwing it away. Do not flush the condom. 

 

 

Warnings

 

Even with proper usage, there are still warnings that are associated with the use of condoms. 

 

  • Do not use oil-based lubracants with latex condoms. They may break down the latex, which compromises the integrity of the condom. 

  • Do not reuse condoms. Use a new condom for each sex act. 

  • Keep unused condoms in a cool, dry place. Wallets and other similar storage places may damage the condom. 

  • Even with proper use, condoms still do not completely remove the risk of pregnancy, STIs, or HIV/AIDS. If you think that you may have an STI, HIV/AIDS, or may be pregnant, contact a medical provider. A list of local resources can be found under the Resources tab of this website. 

bottom of page