Although condoms are among the most traditional and widely used methods of contraception, many individuals still encounter errors when using them.
When condoms—whether “external” (male) or “internal” (female)—are used correctly, they are approximately 95% effective in preventing unintended pregnancies and reducing the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, due to common misuse, their real-world effectiveness tends to drop to about 87%, according to data from Planned Parenthood.
A research team led by Stephanie Sanders from The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction at Indiana University conducted a comprehensive review of over 50 scientific studies. Their goal was to identify the typical mistakes people make that compromise condom effectiveness.
Let’s examine the most frequent errors and learn how to prevent them for safer, more effective condom use.
18 Most Common Mistakes People Make While Using Condoms
1. Choosing Not to Use a Condom
The most straightforward yet critical mistake is simply not using a condom when it’s appropriate. The Clue app, which tracks menstrual cycles, collaborated with researchers from the Kinsey Institute to explore condom use during menstruation. Based on surveys of over 95,000 individuals, they observed a 15% decline in condom usage during menstruation periods.
While 64% of respondents reported using male condoms outside of their periods, only 49% employed them during vaginal sex while menstruating. A significant portion—around 30%—believed that pregnancy risk was negligible during menstruation, which explains the reduced use.
However, it’s important to recognize that although the probability of pregnancy is lower during menstruation, it is still possible. Furthermore, avoiding condom use during this time increases the risk of transmitting or contracting STIs.
2. Overlooking the Expiry Date
Like all perishable products, condoms have an expiration date. While they generally have a long shelf life, storing condoms improperly or allowing them to expire can weaken their material and compromise effectiveness. Always check the date printed on the condom wrapper before use to ensure it is still valid.
3. Using Incompatible Lubricants
Studies reveal that in approximately 4.1% of sexual encounters, individuals used oil-based lubricants with latex condoms. Oil-based substances can degrade latex, increasing the likelihood of condom breakage.
To avoid this, opt for water-based lubricants, which are compatible with latex and safer for use during sex. These lubricants enhance comfort and reduce friction without risking condom integrity.
4. Improper Condom Storage
Popular culture often depicts men carrying condoms in their wallets or back pockets. While this might seem convenient, such storage practices are harmful. The heat, pressure, and friction in these locations can cause condoms to deteriorate or damage their packaging.
Research indicates that between 3.3% and 19.1% of individuals store condoms improperly, which can impair their effectiveness and physical integrity. The best storage options are in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
5. Removing the Condom Prematurely
Studies show that between 13.6% and 44.7% of people remove condoms before intercourse has fully concluded. Doing so can significantly increase the risk of STI transmission and pregnancy.
Removing a condom during sex without mutual consent, often referred to as “stealthing,” is considered a form of sexual assault and is illegal in many regions.
6. Using the Wrong Size
Some individuals opt for larger condoms like XXL sizes, thinking it provides extra comfort. However, condoms that are too large are more prone to slipping off or leaking during intercourse.
Statistics indicate that condom slippage occurs in approximately 13.1% to 19.3% of users, while leakage is reported by about 0.4% to 6.5%. Selecting a properly fitted condom enhances safety and comfort.
7. Reusing Condoms
While some might mistakenly reuse condoms, about 1.4% to 3.3% of people admit to doing so. Condoms are designed for single use only. Reusing them can transfer bacteria, fluids, and increase the risk of breakage or infection.
8. Incorrect Application
Research reveals that 11.2% of women and 8.8% of men fail to unroll the condom fully onto the penis. Additionally, between 4% and 30.4% of users put the condom on inside out before flipping it correctly, risking contamination.
To prevent this, always ensure the condom is unrolled completely over the erect penis and applied in the correct orientation. If inserted inside out, discard and use a new condom.
9. Neglecting to Check for Damage
Shockingly, 82.7% of women and 74.5% of men report not inspecting condoms for tears or damages before use. Although it might be overlooked during passionate moments, a quick check can prevent potential failures.
10. Leaving the Condom On Too Long
Up to 57% of sexual encounters end with improper removal, such as leaving the condom on inside the partner post-ejaculation, which increases leakage and STI risks. Always remove the condom promptly after withdrawal in a careful manner.
11. Failing to Leave a Reservoir
It’s essential to leave about half an inch of space at the tip of the condom—known as the reservoir—to contain semen. About 24.3% to 45.7% of survey respondents neglect this step, which can lead to condom failure or spillage.
Properly leaving this space helps prevent bursting and ensures more effective protection.
12. Not Using Lubricant
Between 16% and 25.8% of individuals do not use additional lubricant during sex. Lubrication reduces friction, making the experience more comfortable and diminishing the risk of condom breakage. Even pre-lubricated condoms benefit from extra water-based lubricant.
13. Forgetting to Use a Condom
While condoms are primarily used to prevent pregnancy during vaginal sex, it’s equally important to use them for anal and oral sex to protect against STIs. Employing external condoms or dental dams during these activities significantly reduces infection risks.
14. Applying the Condom Too Late
Research indicates that 17% to 51.1% of people begin sexual intercourse before putting on a condom. Pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, so condoms should be worn throughout the entire sexual act to ensure maximum protection.
15. Unrolling the Condom Beforehand
Between 2.1% and 25.3% of individuals unroll condoms entirely before placing them on the penis. This practice can lead to tears or stretching. Proper application involves unrolling the condom onto an erect penis only when ready for penetration.
16. Failing to Remove Trapped Air
Nearly half of women (48.1%) and 41.6% of men do not expel air from the condom after application. Trapped air can cause the condom to burst during intercourse. To prevent this, gently pinch the tip to push out excess air before use.
17. Using Sharp Objects to Open Packets
Between 2.1% and 11.2% of users admit to opening condom packets with sharp objects such as scissors or teeth. This poses a risk of damaging the condom. Always tear open the package carefully along the designated edge.
18. Using Two Condoms Simultaneously
Some believe that doubling up on condoms provides extra safety. In reality, the increased friction between two condoms often causes them to tear or slip. Always use only one condom at a time for optimal protection.
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