A lot of times, it’s not easy for couples to tell that they’ve just got in a “condom accident” until after the deed. Realising that can give you a lot of anxiety because you might not know what will happen next. There’s no reason to panic, here are ways to handle a few common condom mishaps:

The condom breaks

Condoms are a good form of birth control, but it’s easy for them to break. For example, a condom might break or tear if it has expired, if there’s too much friction or it’s not lubricated enough – which is why it’s advised to use a water-based lubricant. You should then get the emergency contraceptive which is highly effective in preventing an unplanned pregnancy within 72 hours of the slip-up.

Lastly, I would advise you to go for an HIV test with your partner. 

The condom is expired 

If the condom you intend to use is expired, don’t use it. Yes it might kill the mood at the time, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. An expired condom could tear more easily, putting you at risk of pregnancy and contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Rather buy a new batch of condoms or get free ones from your nearest clinic. 

The condom doesn’t fit 

If the condom doesn’t quite fit, it’s best not to use it. A condom that doesn’t fit could slip off during sex. Rather buy/get new condoms with a size up or down (depending on whether the condom is tight or loose). The right fit of condom can save you a lot of anxiety in the future.

You both don’t know how to use the condom 

Not knowing how to use a condom properly can increase the chances of the condom breaking. If you and your partner find yourselves in that situation, rather hold off on having sex and do your research on how  to use a male or female condom correctly. 

The condom gets stuck inside the vagina

Yes, it’s possible for a condom to slip off and get stuck inside of the vagina during sex. It’s also possible for pieces of a broken or torn condom to get stuck. If this happens to you, don’t panic. The condom will come out, probably as you’re urinating. Of course, if it doesn’t, go to your doctor or nearest clinic. It’s also a  good idea to take the morning after pill as a precaution to avoid an unwanted pregnancy.

“Condom accidents” happen all the time and they can happen to anybody, so don’t feel bad if you find yourself in any of  these situations. Understanding how to react and being prepared is the best way to handle it. Using a condom is an important part of intimacy so don’t feel afraid to talk to your partner openly about a condom – especially when you’re facing an unexpected condom incident. 

What other condom mishaps do you know of that I have not mentioned? Do let me know by contacting me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).