Condoms are not everyone’s cup of tea. Some choose not to use them because they don’t like the way they feel. Some choose not to use condoms without even trying them, they just don’t like what they hear about them.
In this article, we bust popular myths about condoms and explain how using a condom can lead to great sex, whilst still being safe.
The Myth:Condoms are not safe
The Fact: Condoms can generally be seen as a very safe method of contraception.Male condoms have a 98% effectiveness rate.[1] Female condoms, on the other hand, have a 90% effectiveness rate.[2][3][MS1] [MS2] Indeed, condoms protect against not only pregnancy, but STIs too. It is important to check the date on the packet thought, because, as like some types of food, condoms do have a use by date.[4]
The Myth:Condoms take away the sensitivity during sex
The Fact: There is a belief amongst some that condoms are not sensitive and so take away the thrill of sex, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Durex Fetherlite condoms are ultra-fine with extra lubrication to help heighten sensitivity, maximising pleasure for him and her and giving maximum intimacy and connectivity.[5][MS3]
The Myth:Condoms break easily
The Fact:Condoms do not break easily if used properly. Firstly, you should check the expiration date on the condom. After that, and when the penis is hard, carefully take out the condom from its packet. You should pay attention that it doesn’t tear from coming into contact from anything sharp, such as nails, jewellery or teeth.
Once you’ve done this, make sure that it’s the right way up. The tip of the condom needs to be facing away from the tip of the penis before you put it on. Squeeze the end so there’s no air trapped, and place over the erect penis. Make sure it is fully on and there are no baggy parts and airholes.
When you’re having sex, if the condom rolls back up at any point, simply roll it back down, or if it comes off, stop and use a new one (if not it could break). If you follow these steps, the risk of the condom breaking will be very low.[6] And with the extra lubricant, it can feel great for both of you. If the worst scenario does happen, and the condom does break whilst having sex, seek medical advice as quickly as possible and enquire about emergency contraception.[7]
The Myth:Putting a condom on isn’t sexy
The Fact:Now you know how to put on a condom on and you’re assured that it shouldn’t break, you may still be put off by the seemingly mechanical, unsexy procedure of putting it on. But it can be made sexy and be incorporated into the foreplay before the sex starts.
Instead of putting the condom on by hand, why not excite your man by putting it on with your mouth? This can really electrify things! Put your lips over your teeth and mouth over the erect head of the penis. Then[MS4] , push your lips against the ring of the condom and slide it down until fully on. For extra sensation for him, you could consider dropping a little lube in the end of the condom before you put it on.[8]
Engaging in dirty talk with each other whilst it’s taking place can also be a great way of keeping the excitement going. Don’t feel under pressure to do anything you don’t want to though. Let the spontaneity get the better of you and you’ll soon be both on the path to sexual ecstasy.
The Myth:We’re just having oral sex, so a condom is not necessary
The Fact: It doesn’t matter if you’re just partaking in oral sex, a condom should still be used. A range of STIs can be transmitted from person to person through oral sex, including gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and herpes.[9] You could make it a fruity affair, by applying some lube and / or using a flavoured condom. All lubes are consumable and come in a variety of fruity flavours, such as strawberry and banana.
Now you know the facts, don’t let untruths about condom be the reason you aren’t having safe sex. If you want to avoid pregnancy and a range of STI’s, a condom is the best protection – and the only contraception which protects you from both.