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Yes, yes! We know that when the libido goes on an overdrive and sexual desire is its peak, doing a last-second condom check can kill the moment! If tonight is the night, exercise your right to pleasure and safe sex by helping yourself and your partner avoid some common condom mistakes.
Experts have emphasized enough that not having safe sex can lead to unwanted pregnancy and sexuality transmitted diseases (STD). A condom is the most widely used and effective way to prevent these. And unfortunately, if you use a condom incorrectly and commit certain mistakes, it could result in certain problems.
To know the condom mistakes that people tend to make and things that everyone should check before using a condom, Health Shots got in touch with Dr Swati Gaikwad, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Pune.
The first mistake that people can make when it comes to condoms is not checking their packaging. “Before buying a condom, one needs to make sure that it is packed properly and that there is no damage to it. Do not buy a condom if it is open, discolored, brittle, or has any holes in it,” says Dr Gaikwad. In fact, if the condom seems dry, rough, and sticky, throw it in the dustbin and use a new one instead. Also, don’t let your partner use his teeth or nails to tear the package of the condom.
After checking the condom package for any damage, do not skip checking the expiry date. Dr Gaikwad says, “Just like medicine and other products, you will have to first check the expiry date and then buy a condom.” So, refrain from buying it if it is out of date and never buy a condom without reading the expiry date. You can find the expiry dates printed on the back of the condom package. Checking the expiry date and packaging just before and during intercourse can ruin your mood. So after checking both these things, make sure that you keep a condom in the drawer near your bed.
What happens if you use an expired condom? Well, an expired condom can increase the risk of your getting pregnant and sexually transmitted diseases (STD), making condoms less effective.
3. Check for latex condoms
Are you aware? Latex condoms made from natural rubber may prevent sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. Thus, you can opt for them. However, if you or your partner are allergic to latex there are many other options available. You can opt for condoms made from alternative materials such as lamb intestinal lining, polyurethane, or lambskin condom.
Keep one more thing in mind. When you’re using a latex condom do not use oil based lubricants because they can break down latex. Therefore, choose water-based lubricants.
Did you know that condoms need to be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Try to keep them in purses, backpacks, or drawers. Do not leave them in the wallets or inside the pockets of your clothes. Doing so can degrade the latex.
Do you really think that you can use a condom twice? Ladies, no, do not make this mistake. Dr Gaikwad said, “Avoid reusing a condom as it can break. It is a strict no-no to use a condom that has already been opened.” Use a new condom each time you have sex and suggest your partner to do the same!
This advice is totally for your partner. Suggest to your partner that if he happens to unroll the condom in the wrong direction, throw it away and use another one. “When opening a condom, push it to the side before opening the packaging. This will allow you to prevent damaging the condom before use,” says Dr Gaikwad. Moreover, long fingernails can damage the condom, so be extra vigilant while opening it.
Also, if you’ve failed to remove the air from the tip it can cause damage to the condom during intercourse.
If your partner puts the condom the wrong way, just take it off and discard it. Use a new condom. You can help your partner suggest the right way to wear a condom to avoid risks.
How to wear it:
* Open and remove the condom from the wrapper carefully.
* Put it on an erect penis before having sexual intercourse.
* Pinch air out from the tip of the condom.
* Unroll it all the way down the penis.
To remove it:
* Hold the condom base and then pull out.
* Carefully remove and throw it in the dustbin.
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Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More
