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We’re giving you the lowdown, so that you never have to endure this nightmare.
Oh My! The condom broke. Sounds terrifying, right? A small rip is all it takes to turn a fun quickie into an unplanned pregnancy or STI diagnosis. But if condoms are in fact 97% effective, why do they break in the first place? And what can you do to make sure you fall on the right side of that statistic? Keep reading to find out.
Why Do Condoms Break?
These little bad boys can rip and rupture if you’re not careful. Here’s why:
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Condoms can be weakened by heat and chemicals, making them more prone to breaking. So fishing around your bedside drawer for a dusty condom from years ago isn’t the best idea.
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Keeping a condom in your wallet, where it might be folded or sat on, can also wear it down.
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When you think about it, sex is mostly about friction. Tearing can occur as a result of friction.
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Oil-based lubricants can weaken the material and cause a rip in latex condoms, and silicone lubes can break them down. Use only water-based lubricants (like Glide) with latex condoms for a safe experience.
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Breaks can also occur when condoms are too tight or too loose. Try several sizes to get the right fit.
Do’s & Don’ts To Swear By:
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Stow condoms away somewhere safe right up until you need to use them. If you’re carrying them around, try to keep them in the box they come in.
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Ditch oils and lotions, and pick the best natural lubricant around to avoid breakage.
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Keep them away from heat and light so they retain the lubrication they are made with.
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Never open a condom with anything sharp, such as scissors or your teeth.
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Check the ‘Best Before’ date and never use a rubber past its expiration date.
Slide With Glide
Oil-based lubes and other go-to’s don’t do great with too much friction, leaving the potential for breakage.Studies conducted by WHO and the Journal Of The International Aids Society explain that using water-based lubricants decreases the chances of condom breakage. Glide is water-based, so it’s smooth and feels natural, minus the chip-chip you expect with other lubes.
MyMuse Pro Tip: Lubricant is simple to use with condoms; simply apply lube on the exterior of the condom after putting it on. You may also apply a few drops of lubricant inside the condom's tip before rolling the condom on, for an enhanced sensation for the penis-owner.
If the question “why do condoms break?” is still rumbling in your head, and if you have any more specific questions, drop us an email at musings@mymuse.in and we’ll help you out.
Also Read: 7 Boxes of Condoms Every Bedroom Sensual Seeker Should Know
You might also like: The Slip & Slide Kit, The Getting Down Kit
