How to use a condom

One of the most effective ways to protect yourself against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections is the condom. But it only works on one condition: you have to use it correctly. Do you know how to put a condom on properly?

How to put a condom on correctly

The good news: it's really straightforward. In this article you'll find everything you need to know about the right moment and the right technique – plus the risks and mistakes to avoid, both for your own safety and that of your partner.

What is a condom

The condom is a barrier method of contraception. What does that mean? It is rolled over the penis before intercourse, forming a physical barrier that prevents direct contact between both partners' bodies.

Why is it so important that it's a barrier method? Because two essential functions follow from this:

• By preventing direct contact between semen and the partner's body, the condom protects against unwanted pregnancy.
• By preventing direct contact between both bodies – including the exchange of bodily fluids – the condom also protects against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections.

The specialist literature has confirmed that correct use of the condom is the single most important factor in its effectiveness as a contraceptive. Used correctly, it is around 97% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy.

In short: the condom is a barrier device made of latex, polyurethane, nitrile or other materials, used during intercourse to significantly reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection.

The function of the condom 

The condom serves two central purposes.

It protects against unwanted pregnancy because it collects the semen at ejaculation and prevents direct contact with the partner's body.

At the same time, it protects against sexually transmitted diseases, as it prevents any exchange of bodily fluids between the two bodies. For example, a study published back in 2015 concluded that condoms offer maximum protection of over 90% against infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and gonorrhoea.

Types of condom

The condom has a long history as a means of safer sex, as the specialist literature shows. In its earliest forms it was already in use in antiquity – and even then it served both to prevent pregnancy and to protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

The first forms and applications are associated with King Minos of Crete, whose wife used a goat's bladder for protection. In ancient Egypt, a kind of cap was worn over the glans, coloured differently according to social class. The ancient Romans used animal bladders primarily to prevent venereal disease – not pregnancy. In other words, condoms have been made from all manner of materials over the centuries, long before the modern latex versions came along.

Today there are dozens of types of condom, catering to different needs as well as to every preference. They differ above all in material, but also in how they're used, in surface texture and in other features:

• Materials: Most condoms are made of latex. They're stretchy, tear-resistant and offer effective protection against pregnancy and infection. For people with a latex allergy, there are latex-free alternatives made of polyurethane or polyisoprene. These protect just as effectively but are gentler on sensitive skin.
• Use: There are condoms for men, which are rolled onto the penis and are by far the most common, as well as condoms for women, which are inserted into the vagina. Both offer effective protection.
• Surface texture: If you prefer more intense stimulation, dotted or ribbed condoms can add extra pleasure during intercourse.
• Lubricant: Lubricated or extra-lubricated condoms reduce friction, discomfort and the risk of tearing, making for a more comfortable experience. But there are also non-lubricated condoms for couples who prefer to choose their own lubricant separately.
• Other features: Condoms also differ in characteristics such as flavour or texture. Some are ultra-thin for added sensitivity, others extra strong for greater peace of mind.

In other words, there are dozens of different types of condom, so every couple can find the right option to enjoy both effective protection and pleasure and comfort.

Why correct use matters so much

The effectiveness of the condom as a means of contraception and protection depends on one central condition: correct use. The condom must be used for every instance of vaginal intercourse – without exception, from start to finish.

Simple mistakes such as the wrong size or putting it on incorrectly can drastically reduce its effectiveness. Put differently: you can't expect effective protection if you begin intercourse without a condom and put it on too late, if you remove it before the end, if you turn it inside out, or if it slips off or tears.

Clinical studies bear this out. In a study of 509 adolescents tested for sexually transmitted infections, for instance, correct and consistent condom use had a protective effect against chlamydia – risk fell by around 60% – and a very high protective effect against gonorrhoea, with a risk reduction of roughly 90%.

Condom effectiveness

With perfect use, the contraceptive effectiveness of the condom is around 98% according to official data. In everyday life, however, it isn't always used perfectly. Through mishandling or human error when putting it on, effectiveness with typical use can fall to around 82–85%.

So there is a direct link between correct use and the level of protection the condom gives you. The more consistently and correctly you use it, the lower the risk of unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection.

The condom – risks of incorrect use

If the condom isn't put on properly, it can slip or tear during intercourse – and at that point protection is no longer assured.

In such situations the physical barrier between semen and vagina is effectively gone, which raises the risk of unwanted pregnancy. And of course the same applies to bodily fluids, which can transmit infections through direct contact.

Preparation before using a condom

Using a condom correctly doesn't begin with intercourse – it starts earlier, with choosing the product. It's important to check it and to prepare properly in order to avoid common unpleasant situations such as tearing or allergic reactions.

Check the packaging and expiry date

Before using a condom, check the expiry date first. An expired condom can lose its elasticity and strength, increasing the risk of tearing.

Also make sure the packaging is undamaged, with no tears and no spots where air has escaped. If the packaging is damaged, don't use the condom – there's a risk it's no longer safe.

As a general safety rule: never use condoms that appear damaged for any reason. Even small defects can compromise protection.

Storing condoms properly

Proper preparation also includes how you store condoms. Did you know that high temperatures can damage the material and make it more brittle, affecting its effectiveness?

Keep them in a dry, cool place – away from heat, moisture and friction. It isn't a good idea, for example, to keep a condom in your wallet for long periods, where constant friction and pressure can damage the material even if the packaging looks intact. 

Choosing the right size

Condom size isn't a matter of personal preference but of correct fit. Why? Because a condom that's too tight can tear easily, and one that's too loose can slip off during sex.

A condom should provide safety and comfort – and it can only do that if you choose the right size, one that fits securely and reduces the risk of mishaps. As a rule, three standard options are available, matched to different anatomies:

• Snug: 47 to 49 mm
• Regular: 50 to 54 mm
• Large: 55 to 57 mm

How do you find the right size? First, it helps to know that condom size is given as the nominal width. This corresponds to half the circumference. So for a condom with a nominal width of 47 mm, the circumference is 94 mm.

It's recommended that the circumference of the condom be at least 10% smaller than the circumference of the penis, so that the condom fits snugly.

Choosing the right type of condom

When choosing the type of condom, you should consider three key aspects: effective protection, sensitivities and personal preference.

Effective protection during intercourse depends on correct use. The other two aspects concern choosing the right product.

Latex condoms are the cheapest and most widely available. They're strong, stretchy and offer effective protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. If one of the partners is sensitive to latex, however, they're not a good choice. There are latex-free options made of polyurethane or other materials that offer a comparable level of protection – without the risk of allergies or discomfort.

The amount of lubricant on the condom is another important factor. Most products come pre-lubricated to reduce friction and increase comfort. But preferences vary from couple to couple. Would you rather use a particular lubricant chosen separately? Then opt for non-lubricated condoms. Or, on the contrary, would you like even more glide? There are extra-lubricated condoms for that too.

How to put on a condom – a step-by-step guide

As mentioned several times already, correct use is the prerequisite for the condom's full effectiveness. And that depends largely on how correctly it is put on from the very start of intercourse.

The condom is only ever placed on an erect penis, before any sexual contact, and following all of the steps below precisely.

Opening the packaging

The packaging should be torn open carefully at the marked edge. Don't use your fingernails or sharp objects, to avoid scratching or accidentally damaging the product.

Checking the orientation

Always check the condom to work out which way it unrolls. It needs to be positioned so that it rolls down easily. The rim should face outwards so that it unrolls naturally.

It's a good idea to do a quick test before putting it on. The check is simple: place the condom on the tip of the penis or on your fingers and gently see whether it unrolls downwards without resistance. If it doesn't unroll easily, it's the wrong way round and needs to be turned over.

Just be sure to do the test with gentle movements, without forcing or stretching the material, so the condom isn't damaged.

Squeezing the tip (removing the air)

Before unrolling, gently squeeze the tip of the condom – the reservoir – to remove the air. The reservoir is there to collect the semen at ejaculation; this step ensures there's enough room for it and that the condom doesn't burst.

Placing it on the erect penis

The condom is only put on when the penis is erect. Place it on the tip – check it's positioned correctly before you unroll it.

Unrolling it fully

Make sure you unroll the condom all the way to the base of the penis. Then check the fit to make sure it's snug and won't slip during intercourse.

Using it during intercourse

The condom must be used from the start of sexual contact, before any form of penetration or genital contact, in order to prevent any direct contact between the partners' bodily fluids.

Once on, it must stay in place throughout intercourse to provide effective protection – including against pre-ejaculate, which can contain sperm and pathogens.

Another thing to watch out for is choosing a compatible lubricant, if you want to use one. In general, a natural water-based lubricant or a silicone-based one is recommended, as these are considered safe with latex. They reduce friction and therefore the risk of tearing, as well as discomfort. Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can degrade the condom material and reduce its strength.

Very important: change the condom after each instance of intercourse. It is a single-use product and must also be changed when you switch from one type of contact to another – oral, vaginal or anal – to prevent contamination and the transmission of infection.

Condom use during menstruation

Sex during your period is safe, and the risk of pregnancy is generally lower at this time. That doesn't mean it's zero, though. Pregnancy is possible during your period too, so you still need a method of contraception.

What's more, the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections can be higher during menstruation because of contact with blood – another reason why condom use remains just as important.

Beyond the protection it provides at every stage of the cycle, using a condom during your period offers other important benefits, for example in terms of hygiene and peace of mind.

After intercourse, both partners should attend to hygiene. Your partner should remove the condom carefully, holding the base to prevent spillage, then dispose of it in the bin – never reuse it and never flush it down the toilet.

You're also advised to go to the toilet to urinate, gently clean the intimate area with lukewarm water and a natural intimate wash, and make sure you're protected with skin-friendly period products.

How to take a condom off correctly

One wrong move when removing the condom can undo all the protection, even if you've followed every step perfectly up to that point. It must be removed correctly and carefully to prevent spillage and accidental contact with bodily fluids, which can increase the risk of pregnancy or infection.

The right moment to remove it

The condom should be removed immediately after ejaculation, while the penis is still erect. Your partner shouldn't wait until the erection has subsided completely, as the condom then sits more loosely and can slip off more easily, allowing the contents to leak out.

Holding the base

Before withdrawing, the base of the condom must be held firmly. This step prevents it from slipping off and keeps the fluid inside, avoiding accidental spillage.

Removing it safely

The condom is pulled off slowly and carefully, immediately after withdrawing the penis from the vagina or anus. It's important to avoid direct contact with your partner at this moment, to prevent contamination or accidental spillage.

Proper disposal

After use, tie a knot in the end of the condom to prevent leakage, then dispose of it in the bin.

Important: it must never be flushed down the toilet. It can cause blockages and isn't biodegradable in conventional sewage systems.

Common mistakes when using condoms

Although the condom is very safe when used correctly, incorrect handling is one of the main reasons for reduced effectiveness. Here are the most common mistakes to watch out for and avoid, so you can enjoy protection with no compromises:

• Putting it on incorrectly can compromise protection, especially if the condom is turned inside out and then still used. This is why checking the orientation before unrolling matters so much.
• Air in the reservoir increases the risk of the condom bursting during intercourse. So the tip should be squeezed before unrolling to remove the air.
• Reusing a condom is never safe. Condoms are designed for single use and must be changed for every instance of intercourse – including when switching from one type of contact to another.
• Using two condoms at once can cause tearing due to the friction.
• Using unsuitable lubricants, such as oil-based ones, can degrade the condom and reduce its strength. Water- or silicone-based lubricants are recommended.
• Opening the packaging incorrectly, for example with fingernails or sharp objects that can cause invisible tears, or far too long before intercourse, which can compromise effectiveness.
• Using an expired condom, which may have lost its elasticity and be more likely to tear.

What to do if the condom breaks

If the condom breaks, first of all stay calm. It isn't a catastrophe, and it's good that you noticed – that way you can assess the situation and make the right decisions in good time to avoid unwanted consequences.

The first step is to stop intercourse immediately to reduce exposure to risk factors. Check what has happened and make sure the condom has been removed completely. Then come the basic hygiene measures: both you and your partner should wash the intimate area with lukewarm water, without harsh cleansers.

After that, simply treat the situation as unprotected intercourse.

If there's a risk of unwanted pregnancy, you may want to consider emergency contraception. And as for the risk of a sexually transmitted disease – particularly with a new partner or if you know they have an infection – testing is necessary. This includes blood tests, urine tests or swabs to determine whether an infection is present.

Tips for using a condom effectively

As a general rule, remember this: the condom must be used correctly for absolutely every instance of sexual contact – without exception – to ensure optimal protection.

It's just as important to talk to your partner before intercourse about everything to do with protection and preferences. Establish whether there are any sensitivities and talk openly about what you both want, to avoid awkward situations and increase comfort and safety for both of you.

Unless you already know which product is right for you, you can try out different types of condom. That way you'll find out what feels more comfortable and can choose accordingly.

Frequently asked questions about using condoms

Do you have more questions about using condoms but don't know who to ask? Below we answer the most common questions about putting a condom on correctly, choosing the right type and the steps to take if protection is compromised.

When does the condom need to be put on?

The condom must be put on before any sexual contact and stay in place until the end. It's important to use it from the outset, as pre-ejaculate can also contain sperm and transmit infections – so protection needs to be in place throughout the entire act.

How effective is the condom?

Used correctly for every instance of sexual contact, the condom offers very high protection – around 98% – against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. With typical, everyday use, however, effectiveness can fall to around 82–85% because of user error.

Which type of condom should I choose?

Always choose a condom according to your own needs and preferences. Latex condoms are the most widely used, while latex-free options are recommended for people with allergies or sensitive skin. Depending on your preference, you can choose condoms with or without lubricant, ribbed or smooth, in various flavours or in extra-thin versions, so you experience a high level of comfort and pleasure.

Can I use lubricant?

Yes, you can use a lubricant along with a condom, but you need to make sure the two are compatible. Latex condoms can generally be used with water- or silicone-based lubricants, which reduce friction and the risk of tearing. You should avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can degrade the condom material.

What do I do if the condom breaks?

The first step is to stay calm and stop sexual contact immediately. Assess the situation, take the initial intimate hygiene measures and, if necessary, use emergency contraception. Depending on the risk, testing both partners for sexually transmitted diseases is also recommended.

Can I use two condoms at once?

No, using two condoms at once is absolutely not recommended. Friction between the two layers increases the risk of tearing – so protection isn't improved, it's made worse.

How do I choose the right size?

A condom that's too tight can tear; one that's too loose can slip off. In both cases protection is compromised, which is why choosing the right size matters so much.

The right size depends on the circumference of the penis and the nominal width of the condom, which corresponds to half the circumference. As a rule, the circumference of the condom should be at least 10% smaller than the circumference of the penis, so that use is safe and comfortable.

Do condoms expire?

Yes, all condoms have an expiry date. Once it has passed, the material can lose its strength and elasticity, increasing the risk of tearing and reducing effectiveness. Always check the expiry date printed on the packaging and don't use expired condoms.

Can I reuse a condom?

No. The condom is a single-use product and must be thrown away after each use. If reused, it loses its protective effect against leakage and mishaps entirely, and can protect you neither from infection nor from unwanted pregnancy.

How do I know I've put the condom on correctly?

A correctly fitted condom unrolls easily to the base, doesn't slip and has no air trapped in the tip. If it feels comfortable and stays snugly in place throughout intercourse, it has been used correctly.

Which lubricant is compatible with condoms?

Condoms are generally compatible with water- and silicone-based lubricants, unless the packaging states otherwise. You should avoid oils, lotions or petroleum jelly, as they can degrade the condom material and compromise its effectiveness.

Does the condom offer 100% protection against STIs?

The condom doesn't offer 100% protection against sexually transmitted diseases, but it does significantly reduce the risk of infection. With perfect use – that is, correct and consistent use without exception – the protective effect is put at around 98%. It falls considerably, however, if you don't use the condom throughout the whole of intercourse or if you use it incorrectly.

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