There are a lot of myths about condoms so make sure you are aware of the facts before you have sex.
Check for the CE mark
MYTH It’s safer if you use two condoms.
TRUTH No it isn’t, using two condoms at once is a really bad idea, whether it’s two male condoms or a male and female condom. It increases the chances of them ripping so only use one at a time.
MYTH Condoms break easily.
TRUTH No they don’t. To avoid a condom breaking you need to put it on carefully, ensuring there is no airbubble at the end and be careful of sharp nails, jewellery or teeth. If one has been put on inside-out it’ll be uncomfortable to roll on, so take it off and put a new one on. If one does break and you’re not using any other contraception, go to a clinic, pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible and ask about emergency contraception. You will also need to go and be tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections..
MYTH Condoms are the only type of contraception I need to think about
TRUTH No they’re not. Condoms can provide protection from STIs and unintended pregnancy but to ensure the best protection it is recommended that you and your partner use a condom together with another form of contraception. There are many different types of contraception that can be used, including the implant, injection, coil or the pill, and its worth exploring all the options..
MYTH You need extra lube. Vaseline is good.
TRUTH No it’s not. A bit of extra lubrication is good but don’t use anything with oil in it as it can dissolve the condom – that includes baby oil, Vaseline and hand cream. Remember lipstick has oil in it too. Use a water-based lubricant such as KY jelly, Durex Play, Clinigel or Sensel from a pharmacy.
MYTH Condoms make him less sensitive.
TRUTH Using a condom doesn’t have to spoil the moment, they can make some men last longer before they come which is good news for both of you. There are many different sizes, shapes, colours, textures and flavours of condoms so enjoy finding the one that suits you both best.
MYTH Condoms cut off his circulation.
TRUTH No they don’t. A condom can stretch to 18 inches round. He’ll be fine. Again, remember there are many different shapes and sizes available to try.
MYTH I’m on the pill, so we don’t need condoms.
TRUTH Yes you do. The pill does not protect you or your partner from STIs. Plus, if you’ve forgotten to take a pill, or been sick, or using antibiotics, the effectiveness of the pill is reduced and you could still get pregnant.
MYTH If I ask to use a condom, my partner will think less of me.
TRUTH Insisting that you use a condom suggests that you know how to take care of yourself and shows that you know what you want, which can be very sexy.
MYTH You don’t need a condom if you’re having oral sex.
TRUTH Yes you do, you should use a condom for oral sex because gonorrhoea, chlamydia and herpes can be passed to each other this way.
MYTH You have to be 18 to buy condoms.
TRUTH No you don’t, you can buy condoms at any age. You can also get them free, as well as getting confidential advice, at any age, from community contraception clinics (formerly family planning clinics), Brook centres, Sexual Health (GUM) clinics, FE colleges and young people’s clinics.
MYTH I don’t need a condom – I only sleep with nice people
TRUTH STIs don’t know or care if you’re nice or not. The way someone looks is no indicator of whether they have an STI. Many STIs don’t show any syptoms so you could infect each other without even knowing it.
MYTH If it’s a condom, it’s safe.
TRUTH Not necessarily – novelty condoms aren’t safe. Always choose condoms that carry the European CE or Kite mark, which is a recognised safety standard. Also check the date on the packet as condoms don’t last forever.
Click to watch Dr Tina Peers explaining the various other types of contraception a girl can use to prevent pregnancy including the pill, implants and the coil.
Rest assured, if you visit a Community Contraception Clinic, Brook centres, GUM clinics or even your GP, confidentiality is always assured within strict guidelines.
