How to Use a Condom: Talking about condoms can feel awkward, but it doesn’t have to. Learning to use one correctly is smart, responsible, and completely normal. Whether you’re new to it or just double-checking your steps, this guide will walk you through it.
Why should you use a condom?
Condoms are one of the most common and effective ways to protect yourself and your partner during sex. They help:
- Prevent pregnancy
- Reduce the risk of STIs (sexually transmitted infections) like HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea
- Keep things clean and more comfortable
Also Read | What are the best birth control methods for men?
Tips to use a condom correctly:
Choose the right condom:
Choosing the right condom matters. They come in different sizes, materials, textures, and even flavours; pick what fits and feels comfortable.
Check for:
- Material: Latex (most common) or non-latex (polyurethane/polyisoprene) if you have allergies
- Protection label: “For STI and pregnancy prevention”
- Expiry date: Yes, condoms do expire.
- Lubrication: Lubricated or non-lubricated based on comfort and intended use
- Size/fit: Snug but not tight for better comfort and protection
Store right:
Store condoms in a cool, dry place, not in a wallet or back pocket, where heat and friction can damage them. Check the expiry date and make sure the wrapper isn’t torn.
Tear it properly:
Open from the notched edge with your fingers. Scissors, teeth, or sharp nails can rip the condom.
Place it right:
Hold the condom by the tip and check if it’s the right way up. It should unroll easily. If it’s inside out, don’t flip and reuse; open a new one. Pinch the tip to leave space for semen (reduces breakage), place it on the erect penis, and roll down to the base. It should unroll smoothly and cover the entire shaft. If it doesn’t, it’s likely the wrong way or the wrong size.
Lube:
If the condom isn’t pre-lubricated, add a few drops of water-based lube on the outside to reduce friction; this lowers breakage risk and boosts comfort. If it feels loose or starts to slip, stop and adjust.
Single use:
Don’t reuse the same condom for different sexual acts. If it breaks or slips off, stop immediately and put on a new one.
Common condom mistakes to avoid:
Even small errors can lower how well a condom works. Watch out for these:
- Using two condoms at once (double the friction = higher risk of tearing)
- Using expired condoms
- Putting it on too late (some fluids are released early, before ejaculation)
- Not leaving room at the tip
- Not rolling it down all the way
- Reusing a condom
- Using oil-based lubes with latex condoms
Also Read | How to talk to your partner about STDs, protection, and sex
Using a condom correctly is simple and respectful, and shows you care about your partner’s health, your safety, and a better experience for both. Being prepared isn’t embarrassing; it’s confident and mature.