To use condoms effectively to avoid pregnancy, follow these steps carefully:
- Choose the right condom : Use latex or polyurethane condoms, as they are effective at preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Make sure the condom fits well - not too tight or too loose
- Check the condom : Always check the expiration date on the condom package and ensure the condom is not damaged or dried out. Open the packet carefully with your hands, not teeth or scissors, to avoid tearing the condom
- Put the condom on correctly :
- Put the condom on an erect (fully hard) penis before any genital, oral, or anal contact occurs to prevent sperm or STIs from spreading
* Pinch the tip of the condom to leave space for semen and to remove trapped air that could cause breakage
* Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis
- Use appropriate lubricant : Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants to reduce the risk of condom breakage. Avoid oil-based lubricants, which can weaken latex condoms
- During and after sex :
- Keep the condom on throughout the entire sexual act, from start to finish, to prevent exposure to sperm and STIs
* After ejaculation, withdraw the penis while holding the condom at the base to prevent it from slipping off
* Remove the condom carefully, tie it off if desired, and dispose of it in the trash. Do not reuse condoms
- Additional tips :
- Use a new condom every time you have sex or switch between different types of sex (oral, vaginal, anal)
* Do not use two condoms at once, as friction can cause them to break
* Consider using condoms along with another form of contraception (e.g., birth control pills, IUD, spermicide) for extra pregnancy prevention
When used consistently and correctly, condoms are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. Typical use reduces effectiveness to about 85-87% due to human error
. Following these steps helps maximize condom effectiveness to avoid pregnancy and protect against STIs.
