Tips for successful condom use

Condoms are an effective way to reduce both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)--in fact, they are the only method that does both. Although not having sex at all is the only 100% effective prevention method, using condoms correctly and consistently (every time you have sex) is a safe and easy way to protect against a pregnancy or an STI. 

When used perfectly every time you have sex, condoms are 98% effective against pregnancy–meaning that if 100 women use condoms perfectly for a year, about two of them will get pregnant. In real life, or “typical” use, condoms are about 85% effective, meaning for every 100 women using them–even if not perfectly–there would only be about 15 pregnancies in a year. That’s still pretty good, because 85 out of 100 women will get pregnant in a year if they use no method at all. Of course, in order for them to be the most effective, you need to know how to use condoms, and be sure to use them every time. We’ve got some tips below to help.

So you’ve chosen to use condoms to protect yourself from STIs and pregnancy–great choice. Now what?

Talk with your partner. Having a conversation around using condoms might be uncomfortable at first (read some of our safer sex comeback tips here). It’s best to find a calm time before you get intimate to be sure you’re on the same page about using condoms, and to make sure you address each others’ concerns. Waiting until the heat of the moment, when things are moving quickly, could make it a lot more difficult to have a meaningful conversation. 

Get the condoms. They are available in many places–drug or grocery stores for purchase, and many health clinics for free.  You don't have to have a prescription to get condoms, and there's no age restriction--anyone can buy them.  Be sure to get the right size–too big and they could fall off, too small and they could rip. Men and women can both get condoms, that way everyone has an opportunity to be responsible. If you’re allergic to latex, try condoms made out of polyurethane. Test out different styles and textures to find one that feels best, which will help you to use them consistently.

Have them nearby. Storing in a cool dry place is ideal–not in a hot car, but better in a dresser drawer. Make sure to have several around just in case. You can’t use them if you can’t find them!

Use water-based lubrication. Lubrication can often help reduce friction and make sex feel better, just make sure to use water-based lube, not use oil-based (like Vaseline or baby oil) on latex condoms–it will cause them to break. Some condoms come with lubrication, and others even have spermicidal lubrication (a chemical that kills sperm).

Put them to use. Check the expiration date to make sure they’re still effective, and be sure to open the package carefully so you don’t rip it. The condom will be rolled up, and needs to be rolled down over an erect penis, pinching the tip as it is unrolled to leave a little room at the top for the semen. Be sure to wear it the whole time you’re having sex, and make sure the penis is pulled out, with the condom still on, right after sex.  Never wear two condoms at once, and never reuse a condom. Read more about dual contraception to learn how using a second method of birth control can provide even more protection. We also have quick videos to learn more about two kinds of condoms–external and internal. 

Now you’re armed for condom success!