Using a C0ND0M is one of the best ways to have sex safely – with up to 98% efficiency. Not only do they help prevent pregnancies, they protect from Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Condom use is now a norm.
However, the truth however is that C0ND0M is only useful and effective if it is properly used. This means a person may get 0% protection even though they used a C0ND0M – they simply did not use it right.
Therefore, if you do any or all of the things listed below, you only wasted your time:
1. You store the C0ND0M in your pockets/wallet. Where you keep a C0ND0M matters. In your wallet or pocket, it can get compromised because of the regular friction and warm temperature.
2. You used it beyond expiry date. Like every other thing, C0ND0M have expiry date and they offer little or no protection after that.
3. You use your teeth/sharp object to open the wrapper. Your teeth can cause a tear in the C0ND0M. The packet should be opened with your bare fingers,
4. You wear it after genital contact. The best thing to do is to wear your C0ND0M before any genital contact to protect you from other fluids like pre-cum (men) and vaginal fluids.
5. You wear it too tight on your penis. When you wear a C0ND0M, leave a small space for ejaculation and sperm collection at the tip. This will prevent leakage and rupture of the condom when you ejaculate..
6. You wear the wrong size. The wrong size means the condom is either too small or too big. Neither is good because the C0ND0M can tear, leak sperm, or fall off inside the vagina.
7. You touch the C0ND0M with sperm. If you touch the C0ND0M with a hand that you have previously used to touch sperm, you have compromised it. So remove it and wear another.
8. You do not roll up the C0ND0M totally. The condom should cover up your penis to the base, near your scrotum. So roll it up totally, until you reach the ring.
9. You reuse a used C0ND0M. Once a C0ND0M is taken off, after ejaculation or after an initial attempt to wear it, take it off, and get another one. Never reuse a C0ND0M.
While only abstinence can give you 100% protection from STDs and STIs, proper use of the C0ND0M can give you as much as 98% and keep you safe. So ensure that you are as conscious about how you use it as you are about actually using it. Have sex, have fun, but stay healthy.