Introduction:
Condoms are the most effective method to prevent the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, blood-borne diseases, and pregnancy. However, they are effective only when used appropriately. A condom is a thin rubber sheath placed over the penis during sexual intercourse. It acts as a barrier to block the passage of semen into the vagina. Two types of condoms such as female and male condoms are made up of different materials. It is a safer method of sex that is worn only once. People can purchase condoms from grocery shops, drugstores, and public restrooms. Latex condoms are more effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. However, there can be several reasons for condom failure. For example, using condoms has a 20 % to 30 % failure rate in preventing pregnancy. In addition, people can use condoms with lubricants. If people use a condom with oils and vaseline, then due to friction, the chances of breakage are higher, leading to severe infections.
What to Know About Condoms?
Generally, there are two types of condoms external and internal condoms. External condoms are known as male condoms. These condoms are placed over the penis during sexual intercourse. Internal condoms are known as female condoms. These condoms are inserted into the vagina or anus for safe penetrative sex.
The standard material used to make condom include latex is the most common and effective condom during penetrative sex. However, people use plastic condoms in case of latex allergies and break more often than latex condoms. Lambskin condoms are made up of animal skin. These are less effective against sexually transmitted diseases because of the presence of tiny holes, which makes them less effective in preventing infections. Nitrile condoms are female condoms made up of synthetic latex material. These are effective as latex condoms in preventing sexually transmitted diseases.
Why Would the Condom Break?
Condom breakage is rare. Condom breakage may be due to not proper handling of the condom during putting it on the penis. Couples must know about condom failures before buying it. Several reasons that can lead to condom failure or breakage include.
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Putting the Condom in the Wrong Way - If the person wears a condom over the penis in the wrong way can lead to condom failure.
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Using Wrong-Size Condoms - The size of the condom varies according to the size of the penis. Unfortunately, some people buy the wrong size condom, which can be too tight or loose to fit over the penis. This can lead to condom failure. A person should check the size, length, and girth of the condom before buying the packet.
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Opening the Condom Packet Incorrectly - Most people open the condom packet in excitement. It may lead to the breakage or tear of the condom. Some people may use sharp objects or teeth to open the package, which can lead to condom failure.
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Using Expired Condoms - People do not check the expiry date before buying the packet. Expired condoms are not effective and can easily break or tear. Always check the expiry date before purchasing the condom.
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Poorly Stored Condoms - Heat, sunlight, and friction may lead to the breakage of the condom. In addition, some people place condoms in their wallets for a long time, which might lead to condom failure.
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Using Two Condoms at the Same Time - Some people use male and female condoms at the same time during penetrative sex, and this can lead to condom failure.
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Air Pockets - If a person uses a condom with air bubbles, it can break the condom easily.
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Using Oil-Based Lubricants - The use of oil and vaseline may weaken the condom. In addition, the increased friction caused by the oil-based lubricant may break the condom and result in slipping off semen.
What Are the Signs of a Broken Condom?
There are fewer chances of a condom breaking. This is because it breaks only if not used correctly. If the semen is dripping off from the condom, it may be due to the breakage of the condom. Slippage is similar to the breakage of the condom. It occurs if the condom is missing during penetrative sex. Presence of a tear in the condom when the penis is pulled off and the ring part of the condom is on the penis.
What Can a Person Do in Case of a Broken Condom?
Condom breakage can lead to a high risk of infections, including sexually transmitted and blood-borne diseases. These are as follows:
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If the condom breaks during penetrative sex, a person needs to push all the semen by going to the washroom immediately.
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If the condom breaks during oral sex, a person can spit the semen and rinse it with water. Avoid brushing to prevent cuts in the mouth.
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A person can visit the hospital within 72 hours for sexually transmitted testing because unprotected sex is the most common cause of transmission of infections.
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To avoid pregnancy, take the contraceptive pill under the guidance of a doctor. The medicine is effective if taken within five days of unprotected sex.
How to Prevent or Reduce the Risk of Condom Failure?
Condom breakage is avoidable. Some tips that can prevent condom failure include.
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People need to buy the correct size of condoms. A person may try a different dimension of a condom until one fits well. The condom should not move freely.
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People need to check the expiry date before purchasing the packet because old condoms are more prone to break.
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People have to open the packet carefully. Never use scissors or teeth to open the package.
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Wear the condom correctly.
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Check the condom for damage.
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People should not use two condoms at the same time.
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The use of water and silicone-based lubricants provides pleasurable sex. Never use oil-based lubrication because due to friction may damage the condom.
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Always store the condom away from sunlight, direct heat, and cold.
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Do not store condoms in your wallet.
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Do not reuse the same condom.
Conclusion:
Condom failures sound terrifying, but they are rare when people use condoms correctly. Condom breakage may lead to the transmission of sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. Certain factors may lead to condom failure, including using expired condoms, reusing the same condom, using an oil-based lubricant, and does not check the size of the condoms. In case of condom failure, people need to visit the hospital for sexually transmitted screening, and during pregnancy, a couple needs to see a gynecologist for contraceptive medication.
