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The Secrets of Condoms: Unveiling the Unknown

"Safe sex" is a term often associated with condom use, and it is considered a reliable method of protection for both men and women. Let's delve into the intricacies of condom usage and explore whether you truly comprehend the essence of safe condom practices.

Administrator

13 July, 2024

To ensure proper understanding and safety when using condoms, let’s explore some interesting facts and useful knowledge that you may not have heard about before.

1 Condoms are for Birth Control – True, but There’s More

In addition to birth control, condoms are highly effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and other genital infections.

Condoms help prevent sexually transmitted infections

However, the protective effectiveness of condoms is truly maximized when used correctly and when choosing high-quality, intact condoms (there are also counterfeit and fake condoms, and they are easily damaged if not stored and used with care).

2 Using Condoms According to the Expiration Date – Consider the Fine Print!

For condoms that are still in their protective packaging, the expiration date can be up to five years, provided they are stored in a cool, well-ventilated environment. If stored in too hot a place or the package is punctured, the condom inside may dry out, oxidize, and become more prone to tearing during use, compromising safety.

Expiration date of condoms

Additionally, once the protective packaging is removed, the condom should be used immediately as exposure to air will cause it to dry out, making it more difficult to use. Using it at this point increases the likelihood of tearing.

3 Reusing Condoms – Absolutely Not

Condoms are designed with good elasticity, durability, and safety in mind, even under the “forceful impact” and various “positions” of intimate activities. However, after a single use, the elasticity decreases, and it may develop invisible cracks, making it more prone to tearing if reused.

Therefore, it is essential to remember that condoms are for single-use only and should not be reused, even after cleaning, drying, or adding lubricant.

Do not reuse condoms in any form

4 Using Condoms with Lubricant – Proceed with Caution

Each condom is already coated with a layer of lubricant to protect the condom and facilitate ease of use. Therefore, adding extra lubricant is generally unnecessary.

Note that some lubricants can break down the structure of the condom, making it more prone to cracking or puncturing, compromising safety during intimate activities.

Avoid using additional gel lubricant when wearing a condom

5 Double Bagging for Extra Protection – A Misconception

Wearing two condoms at once does not increase protection but instead:

Reduces the “real feel” and emotional connection for users (and takes extra time to put on).
Increases friction between the two condoms, making them more likely to tear.
Makes the condoms more likely to slip off during the act.

Avoid wearing two condoms at once

6 Blowing Up Condoms to Check for Holes – Don’t Do It!

Some people may want to check for tears or punctures in a condom before use by blowing it up. Regardless of the effectiveness of this method, it is important to note that condoms should be used immediately after opening, as prolonged exposure to air can make them more difficult and less safe to use.

In reality, condoms from reputable brands, within their expiration date, and with intact, unscathed packaging are highly likely to be safe and intact. There is no need to test them before use.

Avoid blowing up condoms to check for holes

Additionally, safety depends on how you store and use the condoms, such as avoiding contact with sharp objects, nails, or jewelry, which can easily damage them.

For peace of mind, always purchase quality products and be mindful of proper storage and usage to prevent condom damage and reduce protective effectiveness.

7 Condoms are Only for Men? Not Quite!

Even in Vietnam, you can now find female condoms, made from a soft and thin plastic called polyurethane. These condoms are inserted into the vagina to block sperm from entering the uterus.

When used correctly, female condoms can be up to 95% effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Condoms can be used by women

If your male partner is reluctant to use male condoms, you can take control of your protection and use female condoms to prevent pregnancy and protect your health.

8 Safety of Condoms

In reality, condoms cannot guarantee 100% effectiveness. They are about 90% effective, with the remaining 10% attributed to various factors such as:

Tears or punctures in the condom.
Incorrect condom size.
The risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections from exposed skin not covered by the condom.

Condoms are only about 90% safe

Condoms are becoming a familiar part of modern couples’ lives. However, not everyone has comprehensive knowledge about the condoms they use. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry – make sure to stay informed for your benefit and your partner’s.

Frequently asked questions

Condoms are typically made from latex, a natural rubber. However, there are also condoms made from other materials such as polyisoprene, polyurethane, and lambskin.

When used correctly and consistently, condoms are highly effective in preventing both pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They create a physical barrier that prevents the exchange of bodily fluids, which is the primary means of transmitting STDs.

Yes, condoms do have an expiration date, which is usually printed on the package. It’s important to check this date before use, as condoms can degrade over time, becoming less effective.

Yes, condoms come in various sizes to accommodate different penis sizes. Using a condom that fits properly is important for both comfort and effectiveness. Most condoms are ‘one-size-fits-most’, but some brands offer sizes like ‘snug’ or ‘magnum’ for a better fit.

When choosing a condom, consider factors such as material, size, and any added features like lubrication or textures. You may need to try a few different types to find the most comfortable and suitable option for you and your partner.

Yes, you can use additional water-based or silicone-based lubricants with condoms. In fact, using extra lubricant can enhance pleasure and reduce the risk of condom breakage. However, avoid oil-based lubricants as they can weaken the latex and cause condoms to break.

Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Keep them in their original packaging until use and make sure to check the expiration date.

If a condom breaks during intercourse, it’s important to stay calm. Withdraw immediately and replace the condom with a new one. Consider using emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy, and get tested for STDs as a precaution.

Yes, for those with latex allergies, non-latex condoms made from materials like polyisoprene or polyurethane are available. These condoms provide a safe and effective alternative, offering similar protection against pregnancy and STDs.

Yes, condoms can be used in combination with other forms of contraception, such as the pill, IUD, or implant, for added protection against both pregnancy and STDs. This is often referred to as ‘dual protection’.