Condoms are one of the best methods to use when you’re trying to avoid pregnancy and want to protect yourself from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Although it doesn’t happen very often, Choma, it is possible for a condom to break during sex. But before this makes you nervous about using a condom, just remember that a condom breaking during sex is mainly due to it not being used properly. Understanding how a condom breaks will help you make sure you can prevent this from happening.

Here are reasons for condoms breaking, Choma: 

Too much friction and not enough lubrication

Condoms generally do come pre-lubricated, but sometimes this is not enough. Not having enough lubrication during sex can cause friction and lead to the condom tearing. One example is during anal sex. This is because not enough natural lubrication is produced in the anal area. Although the vagina does produce its own natural lubrication, there are times when it also won’t produce enough during sex. For example, being nervous or uncomfortable can result in your vagina producing less lubrication and causing friction during sex. If you think you might need extra lubrication, you can buy some at most supermarkets or pharmacies. Don’t try homemade lubes, like oil or lotion.

The condom is too small

Most people don’t struggle with condom sizes,  Choma. But there are cases where the condom is too small for the penis. If a condom is too tight it can stretch and tear. If you or your partner are not sure what condom size to get, speak to a nurse or health care practitioner to help you out.

You’re using oils or lotions as lubricants

If you use oil or lotion based products, like petroleum jelly (Vaseline), baby oil, massage oil, coconut oil or any lotions to stay lubricated you risk breaking the condom. The safest lubrication to use is usually found in the condom section in a store. But you can also find out from any health care practitioner what safe lubricants are available to keep you and your partner safe.

You’re storing them in the wrong place

Keep condoms away from sunlight, chemicals or heat and store them in a cool, dry place. Heat can damage a condom by weakening it or drying it out, eventually causing it to break, Choma. Try not to keep condoms in your wallet. If you’re planning on having sex on that same day or night and need to carry a condom with you, make sure it’s a new, fresh condom that you’ve taken out of the pack on that same day.

It’s expired

Always check the expiration date on the condom. An expired condom can weaken over time, dry out and become stiff, causing it to tear when you eventually use it.

It wasn’t opened properly

Make sure you open the package of the condom wrapper towards the corner and not in the middle of the wrapper. Do not open the wrapper with anything things like scissors, teeth, rings, piercings, a knife or any other sharp objects.

You’re using more than one condom at a time

This is a huge no-no, Choma. You might think that using two or more condoms at a time doubles your protection from STIs, but this is not true. Using more than one condom will cause friction and cause the condoms to tear. ONE condom, either a male or female condom, is enough.

You should always check the condom to make sure there are no rips, tears, breakages, holes or anything else that you think may look suspicious before use. Always use a new condom every time you have sex.

A condoms can sometimes rip or tear, but if you follow these tips and use it properly every time, the chances of a condom breaking are very low. In the case that a condom does break, Choma, read this article for advice: What if the condom breaks? 

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