The use of condoms during sexual intercourse is quite effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. However, for reasons of efficiency, there are still some people who think about using the same condom over and over again. Can this be done?
Condoms are the easiest contraceptive method to obtain and the price is affordable. In addition, condoms have minimal side effects and are easy to use. Although condoms are easy to use, in fact not a few people still make mistakes in using condoms.
Common mistakes made are buying the wrong size condom, not unrolling the condom properly, using more than one condom, and using the same condom more than once.
Facts of Repeated Condom Use
In general, condoms are divided into two types, namely male condoms which are used to cover the penis and female condoms which are used in the vagina. Maybe there are still many people who think that these two types of condoms can be washed and used many times.
In fact, male condoms and female condoms are single-use contraceptives and should not be used multiple times. Instead of being frugal, repeated use of condoms can actually reduce the level of effectiveness.
Condoms that are now widely available in the market are generally made of latex or polyurethane. Washing condoms with soap and water can damage the strength of the condom material, making the condom more prone to damage and tearing when in use.
This makes the function of condoms to prevent pregnancy and the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is not optimal. So, male condoms and female condoms must be thrown in the trash after use, yes.
Tips for Using Condoms Properly
Apart from single use, there are other tips on using condoms that must be applied so that their functions are truly effective. Check out how to use a condom the right way below:
- Do not use condoms whose packaging is damaged or has passed the expiration date.
- Unpack the condom carefully to prevent tearing.
- Put the condom on the erect penis. Place the condom on the tip of the head of the penis and slowly unroll the condom so that it covers the entire surface of the penis. Leave space at the end of the condom that does not have a sperm holder.
- Remove the condom when the penis is still erect or after ejaculation.
- Grasp the underside of the condom, which is at the base of the penis, to remove it.
- Tie the base of the condom, wrap it in a tissue or plastic, and immediately throw the used condom in the trash.
Male and female condoms should not be used multiple times and should be discarded after use. Also make sure you apply the tips for using the right condom to minimize the worry of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or unwanted pregnancy.
If you find it difficult because you have to buy and throw away condoms, you can choose other types of contraception that are also affordable, such as diaphragms or cervical cap. However, the effectiveness of these two types of contraceptives is not as high as condoms that are used properly and correctly.
If you still have questions regarding the use of condoms or are confused about choosing a contraceptive that is suitable for you or your partner, don't hesitate to consult a doctor, OK?
