Condoms are up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. Most importantly, they are also the only form of contraceptive that protects you from contracting Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), including HIV. While condoms seem quite straightforward when it comes how they work and how to use them, there are a few mistakes you might be making, Choma. Here are ten:

Putting a condom on too late and taking it off too early

Some people wait too long to put a condom on. This means that you’ll initiate sex, maybe engage in foreplay and possibly even engage in initial intercourse before putting the condom on – that’s if you get to putting the condom on at all. On the other hand, you might put the condom on in the beginning, but then take it off and continue having sex without it on.

Both of these are risky acts because by engaging in sexual activity without using a condom, you’re putting yourself at risk of possible pregnancy and STIs. Skin-to-skin contact can result in contracting some forms of STIs, Choma. So make sure you put a condom on before you have sex and keep it on throughout the WHOLE sexual act.

Note: The best time to put the male condom on is when the penis is erect. In the case of a female condom, the best time is anytime before sex really (even up to 8 hours before).

Waiting too long after sex to take the condom off

Cuddling after sex is great and you might be tempted to do that after sex, but don’t do that without removing the condom first. After sex a guy loses his erection quickly, which means his penis will go soft and this will leave a bit more room in the condom – risking a bit of semen spillage out of the condom. So to avoid this, take the condom off after sex and throw it away. Read my article on How to use a condom.

Not putting the condom on properly

If you don’t put the condom on properly, you risk it slipping off during sex. And if the condom slips off, you risk unplanned pregnancy and/or contracting a STI. If you’re not sure about how to use a condom properly, read my article on How to use a condom.

Not checking the expiry date

Condoms do expire, Choma. Always check the date on the condom(s) you intend to use. If you don’t want to kill the mood by checking the condom in the heat of the moment then check your condoms way before you have sex, just to be on the safe side.

Using the wrong lube

Be careful of the things you use as lubrication, especially on latex condoms. Using things like coconut oil, lotion, massage oil or petroleum jelly can break down latex. If you’re going to be using lube, stick to silicone-based or water-based lubes instead.

Sticking to a condom you don’t enjoy

Not all condoms are for everyone. There are several reasons why a condom might be uncomfortable. One reason could be that it’s the wrong size and therefore doesn’t fit properly. Another reason could be that you’re allergic to latex. There are lots of different condom types out there so you might need to try a few before you find the one that’s right for you and your partner. Try some condoms out – different sizes, flavours and condom types. If you don’t like the male condom, you might enjoy the female condom more. If you’re allergic to latex speak to a healthcare practitioner for help. You can also read this article for more information.

Using two condoms

You will only ever need one condom at a time for sex, Choma. Don’t try using two thinking that you will have “double protection”. Doing this might actually cause both condoms to tear and leave you with zero protection. Even if you’re using a female condom, you don’t need to use a male condom as well. Only ONE condom at a time, Choma.

Using the same condom for different sex acts

So when I say one condom at a time, I also mean one condom for one sexual act. Don’t use a condom for oral sex and then use the same condom for vaginal sex. Similarly, don’t use a condom for vaginal sex and then use the same condom for anal sex. If you’re going to be doing different sexual acts take the condom off after one sexual act and put another one on before the next sexual act. This way you’ll make sure you’re not at risk of contracting STIs.

Stopping condom use too soon

Some people stop using condoms too soon after they start having sex. Just because you’ve known each other for a while doesn’t mean it’s time to get rid of protection. It’s still important to keep yourself protected. For one, condoms will continue to prevent you from having an unplanned pregnancy. And two,  getting tested for HIV, going for regular STI screening AND using condoms ensures you’re both always safe and protected.

Not using one at all

This is the biggest condom mistake. For whatever reason, some people decide not to use condoms. Not using a condom every time you have sex puts you at major risk of contracting STIs, including HIV, and increases your risk of pregnancy every time. There really is no excuse not to use a condom, Choma. Protect yourself and your partner every time!

Remember that you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).