When using a condom, it is helpful to avoid making mistakes. We have listed the most common mistakes made with a condom here so you can avoid them yourself.
Expiration date condom
When using the condom, also check its usability, because yes condoms have an expiration date. The expiration date can be found on the package with black numbers. In short, you can’t miss this one. After the expiration date has passed, the safety decreases because the material is less strong and can become porous.
Penis stiffness
A condom is best put on and unrolled when the penis is completely stiff. If the penis is not completely stiff, you will find that putting on a condom does not go smoothly or less smoothly. Unrolling the condom is then also very difficult. So when putting on the condom, make sure that the penis is sufficiently stiff. Proper timing for putting on a condom ensures safe sex.
Opening the package
Opening the package should be done with care to avoid the chance of damaging or tearing the condom. Even if you both feel like it, do not use sharp objects to open the package. So don’t use a knife or your teeth. This will prevent you from not being able to use the condom again.
Storing condoms
The best way to store condoms is described on the back of the box. Store them in a cool and dry place and definitely not together with sharp objects. Avoid wear and tear by not storing condoms in sunlight, nor in your wallet however convenient this may sound. The indicated expiration date only applies when they are stored under the right conditions. Tip: Buy condoms cheaply online!
Incorrect unrolling of the condom
You can unroll a condom the wrong way round. Believe it or not this happens. Often you notice it soon enough when you can no longer unroll. You can no longer use this condom and you can throw it away. Chances are that there is now pre-cum on the outside of the condom. Use a new condom so you can’t get her pregnant or get an STI.
By unrolling the condom completely, you prevent it from slipping off during intercourse. When unrolling, it is also important to hold the nozzle and not let any air in it, so that ejaculation comes into it during ejaculation.
Taking off the condom
Do not wait too long to take off the condom when you have come. When your penis is still in the vagina, the condom can open up because your penis slackens and the condom leaks sperm.
It is also important to check the condom after sex. An easy check is to hold the condom closed from the top and squeeze gently at the bottom. If moisture comes out then the condom has torn. This way you can be sure it didn’t go wrong.
Using no lubricant or the wrong kind of lubricant
Using no lubricant or the wrong kind of lubricant with condoms increases the chances of tearing. Especially if you have been at it for a while. Do not use oil-based lubricant, which makes the latex less strong and thus you are more likely to break it. Water-based and silicone-based lubricants are best for use with condoms.
Using the right size condom
Each person’s stiff penis size varies, and just like clothing, a condom must fit properly. Condoms are therefore available in multiple sizes and fits. With a properly fitting condom, you prevent it from slipping or tearing and it also increases comfort.
Condom use only for penetration
It seems very logical to use a condom only for penetration and not for oral sex. Even when you get blowjobs you can get or transmit an STI such as gonorrhea. Many do not use contraception during oral sex. During oral sex, it is also important to have protection and only do it without if you are both tested and completely clean.
Reuse condom
A condom cannot be used twice. This is because a used condom no longer has the same effect as a new condom. So if you are going to have sex together again, pick up a new condom. Even if you alternate between vaginal, oral and anal sex, you should use a new condom each time. This way you avoid infections and the chance that the condom will break. Should you be able to keep it up for quite a long time, even then use a new condom.
Using condoms properly always makes sex a lot safer and prevents pregnancy and infection with STDs. So make sure you are well prepared!