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Dangerous condom mistakes, are you making them?

It's not enough to just use condoms. You have to use them correctly!

Checking for visible damage:

Look for tears or holes and do not open the packet with your teeth or snag the condom on jewelry or fingernails.

Checking the expiration date:

Plain condoms last up to 5 years, while those with a spermicide up to 2 years because the latex begins to break down. Condoms kept in men's wallets get hot from body heat, which can shorten a condom's life expectancy. If a condom is sticky or brittle, throw it away.

Not discussing condom use beforehand:

Don't spring a condom on your partner at the last minute. The more both partners discuss and practice using condoms, the better things will go when the big moment comes.

Putting it on late in the action:

Do not put the condom on after penetration has occurred. Some sperm can be released before the final fireworks, posing pregnancy and STD risks.

Not leaving room at the top:

Before putting the condom on, you need to gently squeeze the tip of the condom to remove any trapped air and leave space for the sperm. Otherwise, the condom's more likely to break.

Putting it on wrong:

Putting the condom on inside out makes it more likely to slip off during intercourse. If this happens get a new condom.(The condom should look a little like a cap with the bottom edges rolled up, not under. The cap should fit over the penis so that the brim unrolls easily down the shaft)

Breaking the condom:

About 29% of users report breakage. A large chunk of that is user error, not product defects, say researchers. In addition to the mistakes in numbers 1, 2, 5, and 6, add this: using oil-based lubricants (like petroleum jelly, face and body creams, and baby oil or mineral oil). These can make the latex pop. Instead, use kinder, gentler water-based or silicone lubricants (think glycerin or K-Y Jelly).

Slipping off during sex:

To find a good fit, buy a variety of styles and sizes and try them at leisure.

Taking the condom off too soon:

Losing an erection is a big reason, but erections can come and go during sex; besides, ejaculation can occur without an erection, bringing with it all the risks of pregnancy and STDs.

Recycling a used condom:

Do not use a condom more than once. Once you've run the good race and passed the finish line, retire that thing to the garbage.

Number one mistake:

Not using a condom. Don't let all these potential problems turn you off using condoms. Knowledge is power, practice and get it right.

 

 

 

SOURCES: www.sharecare.com, http://diply.com, www.nbcnews.com