3 minutes read3 minutes readHaving sex is great, but it also comes with risks.
Along with the risk of getting an STI, you may also get pregnant. Even with the best of intentions and all the right precautions, like using contraceptives and practising safe sex, things can go wrong, and total protection from unwanted pregnancy is impossible.
Condoms can fail. When used perfectly, condoms are about 98% effective. However, no one is perfect. Because of improper use, condoms are actually only about 87% effective. Unfortunately, couples often have sex only to realise, at the end, that their condom has broken.
In this blog, we’ll cover what condoms are made of, how to prevent them from breaking, and, most importantly, what to do if your condom breaks during sex.
What are condoms, and what are they made of?
Condoms act as a barrier of protection against STIs and pregnancy during sexual intercourse. They are made of latex rubber, polyisoprene, or polyurethane. Some people with latex allergies can use condoms made with polyurethane, nitrile, or lambskin.
Some condom brands contain casein, which is a milk protein, while others come with spermicide or other lubricants to enhance pleasure and reduce the risk of pregnancy.
How are condoms applied?
It is crucial to know how to apply condoms correctly. Doing so will help ensure that they don’t break during use.
Condoms come in different sizes to fit varying penis sizes, and picking the right fit is essential. Roll the condom down over the penis to the base, ensuring no air is trapped between the skin and the material. Leave a small space at the tip to prevent breakage, and always remove the condom after ejaculation.
How can condoms break during sex?
While condoms are a reliable method of protection, they can sometimes break due to improper usage or external factors.
Common reasons for condom breakage include:
- Contact with sharp objects such as fingernails, teeth, or jewellery
- Use of expired condoms
- Use of condoms that are improperly stored, especially when stored in warm temperatures
Condoms are only meant to be used once. If you remove a condom after it’s been used, do not use that condom again. Dispose of it and use a new condom.
Steps to take if you realise that your condom has broken
If you realise your condom has broken during sexual intercourse, stop intercourse immediately and assess the situation. If ejaculation has occurred, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible. Go to a pharmacy or a family planning clinic to seek emergency contraception to reduce the risk of an unplanned pregnancy.
You will also need to get tested for STIs. It’s possible that a broken condom can expose you to an infection, whether your partner is showing symptoms or not. It is important to take all precautions necessary in order to prevent an infection. If left untreated, many STIs can lead to serious health problems.
Final thoughts
While condoms are a proven and reliable method of protection against STIs and unplanned pregnancy, they are not infallible. It is crucial to know how to use them correctly, and what to do if they break. Taking timely and prompt action can help prevent unwanted health complications in the future.
To stay on top of your sexual health, book in for a Full STI Screen with Better2Know. We offer fast, private testing that fits around your schedule. We also provide helpful advice and support if your test results come back positive. Protect your health and book a test with Better2Know today.
