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There are many types of condoms available to meet everyone’s needs. And, unfortunately, there are also as many myths and misconceptions associated with condoms as well! Sadly, with the stigma that still surrounds sexual health, many false beliefs are circulated as “fact” when they are truly fiction. False information on the internet, talking with others who may not have the facts, fear of asking a question, and shame still surrounding sexual activities, all lead to misinformation. And even worse, this misinformation can lead to unwanted pregnancies or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Condom Myth #1
“Using two condoms is better than one.”
Double is NOT always a better deal. This is a big NO. One condom is all that is necessary for safer sex. If you double up condoms you are actually at more of a risk for breakage due to the condoms rubbing together. You only need to use one condom at a time for them to do what they are supposed to.
Condom Myth #2
“I don’t need to wear a condom if I practice the withdrawal method.”
The withdrawal method, or pulling out, is when the penis is pulled out before ejaculation. Many men have sperm in their pre-ejaculate, the fluid that is released before ejaculation. Condoms should be worn when genital contact is occurring. Wearing a condom will help in reducing the possibility of transmission of STIs and unwanted pregnancies.
Condom Myth #3
“Condoms are a turn off.”
Condoms are available in all different styles, sizes, colors, and flavors. They are ribbed, tattooed, and even glow in the dark. They come in snugger fit to extra large. They can easily be incorporated into foreplay so that they are not viewed as something that interrupts sexual pleasure, but rather something that enhances it.
Condom Myth #4
“Condoms are hard to put on.”
Nope. They are quite simple to put on actually. And it is easy to practice beforehand as well.
- Tear open the package carefully and do not use fingernails, teeth, or anything that can damage the condom.
- Remove the condom from the package and apply a small amount of lubricant to the inside tip.
- Before any sexual contact, place the condom on the head of the erect penis with the rolled side out. Pinch the receptacle tip of the condom between your thumb and forefinger. This prevents air from becoming trapped at the tip of the condom and leaves an empty space to collect semen.
- Unroll the condom down the base of the penis with your other hand. If the condom doesn’t unroll easily, it may be on backwards, damaged or too old. Throw it away and start over with a new condom. You can apply lubricant at this time as well.
- Immediately after ejaculation, hold on to the base of the condom tightly and pull out while the penis is still erect. This will keep the condom from slipping off and keep any fluids from being spilled.
- Dispose properly by wrapping the used condom in tissue and throwing it in the trash so others won’t handle it. DO NOT FLUSH CONDOMS DOWN THE TOILET
Condom Myth #5
“You can re-use a condom.”
No, you cannot re-use a condom. Use a new condom for every new act of intercourse. Never reuse condoms as this can result in condom breakage, risk of pregnancy and STIs. Do not use the same condom if switching from vaginal sex to anal sex.
Condom Myth #6
“Any type of lube is fine with condoms.”
Never use petroleum-based lubricants with latex condoms as they will damage the integrity of the latex and can break the condoms. Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants when using condoms. Either are fine and truly are simply a matter of preference.
So go and explore your condom preferences. Contact reliable sources to ensure you are getting the correct information. Your sexual health is relying on it!
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