How to Put a Condom On in 5 Steps
Using condoms correctly is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your partner during sex, helping to prevent both unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
However, many people aren't entirely confident about the proper technique when using this kind of contraception, which can lead to potentially costly mistakes. So whether you're new to using condoms or simply want to make sure you're getting it right, having a clear, step-by-step guide can make all the difference.
That's why we've put together this straightforward guide to help ensure you're protected every time.
Three key takeaways
- The biggest reason condoms break is human error, so knowing how to put one on reduces the risk.
- Make sure you pick the right condom size for your penis.
- Condoms can expire! So make sure you check the expiry date before use.
5 steps to putting on a condom
Putting a condom on doesn’t need to be complicated. So, we’ve boiled it down to five easy-to-follow steps, that can guide you from start to finish.
1. Choose the right condom
The first, and most important step is making sure that you have the best condom for you.
When it comes to condoms, size does matter. You don’t want anything that feels too tight and constricting, or anything that feels slightly loose, or baggy.
Importantly, if you’re aware that you’ve got a latex allergy, then make sure that you pick a condom that is latex-free to avoid having any skin reactions.
2. Remove the foil wrapper
Getting the condom out of the foil wrapper can be a more delicate process than you might initially think.
It’s important to be careful when tearing the foil that you’re also not breaking the condom in the process. It’s for this same reason that you should avoid using your teeth to open the foil wrapper.
It’s easily done when passions run high, especially if you’re worried about “killing the mood”, but it’s much more important to take your time and get it right.
3. Pinch the tip of the condom
Now that you’ve got the condom out of the foil wrapper, you’re going to want to find the tip of the condom. You’ll recognise this by the nub sticking out from the end. This is where the semen will go when you’re finished.
For those with a keen eye, there is an air bubble in the tip of the condom. This is perfectly normal and is done to protect the condom from damage. Not just this, it shows that the condom is safe to use as there aren’t any holes.
Before doing anything else, make sure that you haven’t got the condom inside out. Most condoms are lubricated on the outside to make things easier for you and your partner.
Now you’ve figured that out and got the tip pinched between your thumb and index finger, hold it at the head of your penis. Now you’re ready for the next step.
4. Roll it down the shaft
With the condom position at the head of your penis, look toward the thick, circular edge at the bottom of the condom.
Continuing to keep the condom pinched, use your other fingers (or other hand if easier) to gently roll the condom down the length of the shaft. If it’s not rolling, then it’s likely inside out.
If you’re having any issues with this or have accidentally tried to put the condom on inside out, don’t try again with the same condom. This is because there may be a small amount of semen and could put you and your partner at risk.
5. Remove the condom
You should keep the condom on until you have finished having sex. When finished, grip the base of the condom as you pull out, to ensure that the condom doesn’t come off early.
It’s best to try and take off the condom while you still have an erection. When off, you can tie off the condom and dispose of it. Make sure that you are always putting used condoms in the bin, not in the toilet.
3 common mistakes when putting on a condom
Whether it’s your first time putting on a condom or you’ve put a condom on a hundred times, there are still common mistakes that anyone can make.
Not checking the expiry date
Every condom has an expiry date printed on the wrapper. You should never use a condom that has gone past this expiry date as:
- it won’t offer you protection
- will be more prone to breaking
- may be contaminated
It’s not worth the risk if you’re trying to practice safer sex.
Using oil-based lubrication
You should avoid using oil-based products like Vaseline as a lubricant during sex as they will cause the condom to break. Instead use lubes that are water-based or silicon-based.
Wearing more than one condom
Okay, this one isn’t a common mistake, but it is still just as important to know. While some people may think that adding a second condom means more protection, it actually offers less protection than just wearing one. They can rub against each other, which makes the material weaker and more likely to break.
How Chemist4U can help
At Chemist4U, we have a variety of condoms for you to choose from. We’ve got different sizes, latex-free alternatives, and all thicknesses so you can find the best condom for your body.
Not just this, but we offer you a fast and discreet delivery, meaning you can get your condoms on your doorstep as quickly as next day.
Frequently asked questions about how to put a condom on
Is it normal for condoms to slip a little?
While slight shifting may happen, it is not ideal for a condom to slip as it means that your protection is reduced. If your condom is consistently slipping it means that you may need a better fit. A properly fitted condom should stay securely in place.
What’s the main reason condoms fail?
The biggest reason that condoms fail or break is human error and incorrect use. For example, buying the wrong size or putting it on improperly.
Getting yourself well acquainted with using a condom before engaging in sexual intercourse with a partner isn’t embarrassing and is the best way to ensure that you both stay safe.
How do you know if a condom fits?
If a condom fits well, it should:
- be snug but comfortable
- roll down the length of the shaft easily
- stay in place without slipping
- have a small air pocket at the tip
If your condom doesn’t meet all four points, it may be an incorrect fit.
