Condoms are without a doubt one of the greatest inventions of mankind. Not only are they the most cost-effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies but also they also stop the transmission of various STDs including the dreaded HIV/AIDS. When used properly, condoms have a 98% success rate! However there are times they can fail. Some of the reasons include improper usage, badly manufactured ones or using expired condoms. We look at some of the ways these miracle devices can fail.
Reason#1: Improper use
While the perfect-use failure rate is only 2%, the typical-use failure rate is 15%. This is mostly because of the mistakes that people usually make when using them. These include:
- Tearing the packet wrong: Some people tend to rip off the condom packet using their teeth. This can cause tears or breakages in the condom which will lead to a not-so-happy ending.
- Completely unrolling it: Another common mistake is completely unrolling the condom before putting it on which makes them loose and ineffective.
- Putting it on wrong: Sometimes people accidentally roll the condom on the wrong way and after realising their mistake then roll it back the right way and use it. This is dangerous because some of the pre-ejaculate material might accidentally get on the outer surface of the condom which can cause pregnancies.
- Using the wrong lubricant: An important thing you need to keep in mind is you need to use compatible lubricants with condoms. For example if you’re using latex ones you should stay away from oil-based lubricants like petroleum jelly, hand lotion or cold cream can damage latex condoms. You should use water-based ones like glycerine or lubricating jellies which can be purchased at most chemist shops.
- Not squeezing out the air: Before putting on a condom you need to squeeze out the little air bubble in it. Failure to do so can result in the condom breaking.
- Not leaving space: This issue occurs when guys put it on without leaving some space at the tip for semen which results in breakages.
- Taking it off before they’re done: Some users tend to take it off before they’re done which renders the contraception useless.
- Taking it off too late: Others tend to leave the condom on even after they lose an erection which can result in the sperm seeping out. It’s vital to immediately remove and dispose of the condom after use.
Reason#2: Manufacturing and Storage Issues
While the aforementioned reasons are caused by human errors during sex, sometimes condoms can defective as well:
- Manufacturing Issues: Like other things condoms are man-made and can sometimes have defects when they manufacture. This is why it’s important to buy condoms from well-known brands only. Also it’s important to make sure you check the packet and see that there are no rips and also that your condom isn’t …
- Past its expiry date: Yes condoms too have an expiry date. It’s important to check the packet before you start using them because they tend to lose their elasticity.
- Storage issues: Most guys store condoms in their pockets which can damage its texture and degrade the latex as can storing them in direct sunlight.
These days most major condom manufacturing companies have stringent measures and tests to check their efficacy. However, if it does break you should immediately contact a doctor about emergency contraceptive pills or buy them over-the-counter. Nowadays, there are pills available that can prevent unwanted pregnancies for up to 72 hours. Remember, the condom is a very powerful tool which lets us control our lives to an extent that simply wasn’t possible for our forefathers. Use it wisely.
Watch this video to find out more about condoms and how to put them on properly.
