External condoms are one of the most common forms of contraception. Using them properly and effectively help reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancies as well as sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission. External condoms should be snug, but tight and not uncomfortable, so we recommend experimenting with different brands and sizes. REACH offers a variety of condoms, so it is easy for you to experiment and find what works best for you and your partner! Place an order for a Safer Sex Kit and request a variety of products to try.
If used perfectly, every single time someone has sex, external condoms are 98% effective. But, humans are not perfect! The typical use of external condoms is about 85% effective. Whether condoms are being used for oral, anal, or vaginal sex, there are some key steps to ensure the greatest protection. Here are important steps to do each time you have sex.
Before Sexual Intercourse:
Affirmative consent has been given by all parties involved. (Remember this can be revoked at any given point throughout the process.)
Check the expiration date on the condom; be sure that the condom has been stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Condoms should not be stored in wallets, cars
Check the air bubble; press on the package or push the condom to the side- if the air bubble is not there then the package has been poked or torn- use a new one.
Tear the condom package carefully with the palms of your fingertips- DO NOT use your teeth, scissors, or any other sharp objects- to open.
If the condom looks damaged, discolored, or dry, don’t use it and get a new one.
Optional: Add a drop of lube inside the condom or on the penis or inside the vagina (Water-based or silicone lube are the best to help prevent the condom from breaking)
To put on an external condom:
Pull back foreskin on the uncircumcised penis
Leave about an inch of space at the tip of the condom (pinch an inch!)
Pinch the air out of the tip with one hand, while placing it on the penis; while unrolling it with the other hand
Roll it all the way to the base of the penis
Run your hand down the length of the penis to push any remaining air to help reduce breakage
To take off (after ejaculation):
Hold the base of the condom as you pull out and your partner pulls away to avoid slippage
Remove the condom and throw it in the TRASH (not the toilet)
Use a new condom every time you have sex even if ejaculation occurs or not. Never double bag or use two external or internal condoms at once.
Pro Tips: When pulling out remember to hold on to the rim of the condom after ejaculating and pull your penis out of your partner's body. Doing so while the penis is still erect (even after ejaculation) can help ensure that the condom stays in place and none of the semen spills out. For the most part, an erection is lost quickly after ejaculating. This results in the condom’s fit getting a bit looser and ejaculate can leak out the sides. It’s also possible that the condom can easily slip off during this time- therefore increasing the risk of pregnancy or STI transmission in either case. So pulling out while the penis is still erect just after ejaculation is recommended. Withdrawal with a condom will help lower the risk of pregnancy by keeping the sperm out of the vagina.
On-campus resources for more information include REACH (reach@binghamton.edu) and Decker Student Health Services (607)777-2211, Off-campus resource is Family Planning (607)723-8306.
Resources:
About the Author: Aryanah Estinvil
Hi, I’m Aryanah, a senior majoring in Integrative Neuroscience at Binghamton University. I’m working towards my goal of getting a degree in medicine. I am interested in joining the medical field because of the need for Black health care professionals especially psychologists and Obstetricians. I joined REACH to be a bridge that could fill in the gaps from unanswered questions about health issues related to college students.
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