Condoms are considered one of the most effective means to prevent unwanted pregnancy and minimise the risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, the effectiveness of condoms is not absolute. Proper usage is required to ensure their effectiveness and to prevent breakage and accidents from occurring.
So if you are sexually active, it is crucial for you to observe the proper use of condoms at all times. Let us share five essential things you need to do to ensure the effectiveness of the condom during sexual intercourse.
1. Make sure the condom is not expired
Condoms have expiration dates. When a condom expires, it will start to break down and become less effective at preventing STDs. Hence, it is necessary to avoid using condoms that have already passed their expiration dates.
The expiration date for a pack of condoms is usually printed on the packaging. So before having sex, it is recommended that you check the expiration date on the condom’s packaging before opening and using it. Moreover, if you notice a hole or any other signs of wear and tear on the condom, it is best to throw it away, regardless of its expiration date.
2. Open the condom packet carefully
The foil packets containing the condoms can be easily torn to retrieve the contraceptives stored inside. However, do take note to open the packet and remove the condom carefully. Occasionally, when you are in a rush, you might accidentally damage the condom when tearing open the packaging, rendering the contraceptive useless.
Avoid tearing the condom packet with your teeth, as you might rip the contraceptive along with the wrapper. Instead, carefully tear open the packet along the corner or edge with a pair of nail scissors or your fingers. It is recommended that you take the condom out in advance before having sex to avoid breaking it while tearing the packaging in a rush.
3. The condom you use must be the right fit
Condoms come in different sizes. To ensure the effectiveness of a condom, make sure that you are using the right size so that it does not slip off during sex. If it is your first time having sex, you might want to consider measuring your erected penis beforehand to obtain the correct measurements. Once you have the measurements, you can go online and research the ideal condom that fits you perfectly.
4. Learn how to put the condom on properly
Proper condom usage is key to reducing your chances of contracting an STD. Therefore, it is essential that you know how to put a condom on properly before having sex. This includes identifying the right side of the condom and understanding how to roll the condom correctly with an open reservoir tip.
To use the condom effectively, hold the tip of the condom between your forefinger and thumb to ensure you are putting on the contraceptive the right way round and prevent air from being trapped inside, as trapped air may cause the condom to break. Slowly place the condom over the tip of your penis and roll it down while ensuring the tip of the condom is still squeezed. If you are having trouble unrolling the condom, it is likely inside out. It is recommended to start over with a new condom as there might be residual sperm on the previous contraceptive.
5. Avoid reusing condoms
Condoms should never be reused and must be thrown away immediately after use. Aside from having residual bodily fluid on the outside, a used condom is more likely to burst or break when used repeatedly. Therefore, always use a new condom each time you have sex.
Conclusion
Condoms are undoubtedly effective at minimising the risk of unwanted pregnancy and STDs. However, proper usage is required to ensure their effectiveness. Therefore, when you are having sex, always be cautious about how you handle, open, and use a condom.
In addition to practising safe sex, it is advisable to go for regular STD testing in Singapore to safeguard your sexual health. At Elyon Clinic, we provide confidential and trusted sexual health check-ups for our patients. If you suspect you or your partner might be at risk of contracting an STD, do not hesitate to contact us at 6802 7208 and schedule an appointment right away.
