Each latex condom is tested for defects, including holes, before it is packaged, and several studies clearly show that condom breakage rates in this country are less than 2 percent. Even when condoms do break, one study showed that more than half of such breaks occurred prior to ejaculation. But it is still essential to use condoms properly.
- take note of the expiration date;
- using a new condom with each act of intercourse;
- condoms that are designed especially for oral sex (e.g. those with flavors) should never be used for vaginal or anal sex, because these kind of condoms are thinner than the ordinary condoms, which may result in breakage during intercourse;
- carefully handling the condom to avoid damaging it with fingernails, teeth, or other sharp objects;
- putting on the condom after the penis is erect and before any genital contact with the partner;
- ensuring no air is trapped in the tip of the condom, pull the tip of the condom slightly before putting it on;
- ensuring adequate lubrication during intercourse, possibly requiring use of exogenous lubricants;
- using only water-based lubricants (e.g., K-Y jelly (trademark) or glycerine) with latex condoms (oil-based lubricants (e.g., petroleum jelly, shortening, mineral oil, massage oils, body lotions, or cooking oil) that can weaken latex should never be used); and
- holding the condom firmly against the base of the penis during withdrawal and withdrawing while the penis is still erect to prevent slippage.
Never use two or more condoms!!! This will not offer double protection as a lot of people believe. This is because the friction between the condoms will cause them to break easily during intercourse.
If you have never used a condom before, it pays to try it once before you use it. As it is not very easy to open a condom and putting it on correctly when in the dark. ;-) Always read the instructions that comes with the condom package carefully before you use it, most of the package comes with an illustrated instructions on how to use a condom, which is very helpful for first-timers.
Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and should not be used after the expiration date. Storing condoms in handbags or wallet is not a very wise choice, as the heat/humidity will damage the condoms. Condoms in damaged packages or condoms that show obvious signs of deterioration (e.g., brittleness, stickiness, or discoloration) should not be used regardless of their expiration date.
Read more about what others have to say about Safer Sex.
. Get your own Free Home Page.