A condom that is applied properly and used throughout sex creates a protective barrier between partners. Most condom failures can be avoided by:

• Choosing good-quality condoms.
• Using the correct lubricant.
• Putting the condom on carefully.
• Ensuring it stays in place during sex.
• Removing and disposing of it correctly.

Taking a few extra seconds to use a condom correctly can significantly improve protection and confidence for both partners.

Condoms are designed to be strong and reliable, but they can fail if they are:

• Used after their expiry date.
• Damaged when opening the packet.
• Stored in excessive heat or direct sunlight.
• Used with oil-based lubricants.
• Applied incorrectly, leaving trapped air inside.
• Not lubricated adequately during sex.
• Allowed to slip when an erection is lost.
• Reused.

One of the most common reasons condoms fail is slipping off during sex, particularly if the wearer loses their erection. Holding the condom firmly at the base of the penis when withdrawing can help prevent this.

Before using a condom, check that:

✅ The packaging is intact.
✅ The condom is within its expiry date.
✅ It carries a recognised quality mark, such as the CE mark or BSI Kitemark.
✅ It has been stored correctly and shows no signs of damage.

Using lubricant can make sex more comfortable and reduce friction that may cause condom breakage.

Safe lubricants to use with condoms

• Water-based lubricants
• Silicone-based lubricants

Lubricants to avoid
Never use oil-based products with latex condoms, including:

• Vaseline or petroleum jelly
• Body lotions
• Hand creams
• Massage oils
• Butter
• Cooking oils

Oil-based products can weaken latex and increase the risk of the condom tearing.

1. Open Carefully
Open the packet gently using your fingers. Avoid using teeth, scissors, jewellery, or long fingernails that could damage the condom.

2. Check the Condom
Inspect it for any obvious tears or damage.

3. Make Sure It's the Right Way Round
The condom should unroll easily down the penis. If it doesn't, discard it and use a new one.

4. Put It On Before Any Sexual Contact
The penis should be erect, and the condom should be applied before any penetration begins.

5. Pinch the Tip
Squeeze the reservoir tip between your thumb and forefinger to remove trapped air and leave space for semen.

6. Roll It Down Fully
Place the condom on the tip of the penis and unroll it all the way to the base.If uncircumcised, pull back the foreskin before applying the condom.

7. Add Lubricant
Apply water-based or silicone-based lubricant to the outside of the condom. Reapply as needed during sex.

• Check occasionally that the condom remains in place.
• Reapply lubricant if things begin to feel dry.
• If having anal sex, use plenty of lubricant to reduce friction.
• Never wear two condoms at the same time. The friction between them can make them more likely to tear.
• If the condom slips, breaks, or is discovered to be inside out, stop immediately and replace it with a new condom.

For longer sexual sessions—particularly those lasting more than 45 minutes—consider changing to a fresh condom.

After ejaculation:

1. Withdraw while the penis is still erect.
2. Hold the condom firmly at the base during withdrawal.
3. Carefully remove the condom, avoiding spills.
4. Tie or wrap it in tissue if desired.
5. Dispose of it in a bin.

Condoms should never be flushed down the toilet as they can cause blockages in drainage systems.

✔Use a new condom every time you have sex.
✔ Use a new condom if switching between partners.
✔ Use only water-based or silicone-based lubricants.
✔ Store condoms properly.
✔ Check the expiry date.

And just as importantly:

✖ Never reuse a condom.
✖ Never use two condoms at once.
✖ Never use an oil-based lubricant with a latex condom.
✖ Never continue having sex if a condom has broken or slipped off.