Contraception Corner: How Condoms Fail
With the reversal of Roe v. Wade, it is more important than ever to be knowledgeable of the contraceptive options available to you. Let’s talk about the most common causes of condom failure.
the proper use of condoms is one of the most effective contraceptive methods.
HOW DO CONDOMS WORK?
FERTILIZATION OCCURS WHEN A MALE’S SPERM PENETRATES A FEMALE’S EGG.
an unplanned pregnancy can be more consequential in the current political climate.
The implantation of a fertilized egg into the female’s uterus is considered a pregnancy. Condoms prevent pregnancy by providing a barrier that stops the sperm and egg from meeting.
With proper use, condoms are 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy and most sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Female condoms are a viable alternative with 95 percent effectiveness.
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WHERE CAN YOU FIND CONDOMS?
You can find condoms just about anywhere.
CONDOMS CAN BE BOUGHT IN MOST GROCERY STORES, GAS STATIONS, AND PHARMACIES.
Many reproductive health clinics, college campus clinics, and health departments provide them for free. Coupons and sales on condoms are also easy to find.
Most condoms are made of latex or polyurethane. If you have a latex allergy, several brands offer latex-free varieties. Lambskin condoms do not provide as much protection against STIs. Many come with spermicide, a sperm-deactivating substance, which could be the cause of unexplained reactions. If you need help finding the aisle or deciding on a product, ask the pharmacist. Don’t let expense or embarrassment be a barrier to your health and safety.
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HOW DO CONDOMS FAIL?
SLIPPING AND BREAKING ARE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF CONDOM FAILURE.
Here are some tips on using condoms correctly and getting the most benefit from your contraception:
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Yes, condoms expire (as do emergency contraceptives and pregnancy tests). You can find expiration dates on the box as well as the individual wrappers. Expired condoms become unreliable as they change in texture or consistency. Always check the expiration date and throw old condoms away.
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Most condoms react negatively to temperatures above 100ºF. Using a wallet or glove compartment for storage can set the stage for disaster. Keep condoms at room temperature in their original packaging to keep them intact.
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Using your teeth or opening a wrapper too quickly could rip the condom. If you wear long or sharp nails, take extra precaution. Ultra-thin varieties are known to break more easily.
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Condoms should be opened immediately before intercourse. They will become increasingly brittle and likely to break with extended exposure to dry air.
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Many of the latex condoms are more compatible with water-based lubricants. This can vary for different brands, so check your packaging to confirm which type is right for you. Using oil- or petrolatum-based products may cause the latex to thin out and – you guessed it – break.
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You should be liberally lubricated during intercourse (naturally or store-bought). Dryness during intercourse can be painful and cause the condom to stick and break.
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Condom packaging comes with instructions for correct placement. Get the right size, pinch the tip to remove air, place it on the penis and unroll it towards the body. Avoid flipping it inside out or unraveling it before it is on the penis.
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Condom sizes are not universal. Using a condom that is too large will cause it to slip off. Using one that is too small may cause it to break. What condom size should you buy? The standard condom is made to fit a penis of 5 to 7 inches long and 4 to 5 inches around (girth). Snug (smaller) and large sizes will be clearly marked on the box.
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You can have too much of a good thing. Using multiple condoms at once (double strapping) increases friction and the likelihood of a break.
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When a penis and the vaginal canal make contact without protection, pregnancy is possible. If your partner insists that the “pull-out method” or “just the tip” won’t cause a problem, they are wrong. Semen is the primary source of sperm. However, sperm can be found in pre-ejaculate fluids (pre-cum). One viable sperm is all it takes to cause pregnancy.
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It’s an unfortunate reality, but every sexual partner has the potential to harbor negative intentions. Maintain control of your sexual health by examining condoms before purchase, and before use. Look for needle punctures, holes, and tears.
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Whether it’s caused by incorrect sizing or an untrustworthy partner, slipping is one of the most common causes of condom failure. If the condom comes off inside your vagina, remove it immediately. Leaving it will likely cause an infection.
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Leaving a condom inserted after sex increases the likelihood of dryness. The already worn condom is also more likely to leak if left on.
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No, you should not reuse condoms under any circumstance. When in doubt, open a new one.
WHAT TO DO IF THE CONDOM FAILS
THE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION (MORNING-AFTER PILL) AVAILABLE OVER THE COUNTER CAN BE USED WITHIN 3 DAYS.
If you need emergency contraception, take it as soon as possible.
These include Plan B®, Take Action®, and other generics. Ella® is another option that can be used within 5 days, but it requires a prescription and is not always easy to find. The sooner you take emergency contraception, the more likely it is to work.
The 98 percent effectiveness of condoms are representative of perfect execution. The information in this article will guide you towards proper use, but accidents happen. Having an additional form of contraception (hormonal, IUD, etc.) will lower the likelihood of an unplanned pregnancy. Stay safe!
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Female condoms have many similarities with their conventional alternatives, but there are a few key things you should know before using them.