What Happens if You Use a Condom Inside Out
Putting a condom on inside out may lead to the following:
1. Reduced Protection Against Pregnancy and STIs:
Compromised Barrier: A condom is meant to prevent pregnancy, and putting it inside out may cause it not to fit correctly, compromising the barrier. Consequently, this increases the risk of leaking semen or the condom slipping off, thereby increasing the risks of pregnancy.
Contamination Risk: An inside-out condom can compromise the barrier, potentially allowing semen or vaginal fluids containing STIs to come into contact with your partner. Reusing a condom, especially inside-out, is particularly risky as it can expose you to pathogens trapped within the used condom.
2. Decreased Lubrication and Discomfort:
Most condoms are lubricated on the outside to reduce friction. Turning it out means that friction is elevated, and this could lead to the breaking of the condom. This would also make for uncomfortable intercourse, mainly when there is no lubrication to work with, possibly leading to minor injuries.
What to Do If You Use a Condom Inside Out
If you use a condom inside out:
- Discard the used condom and take out a fresh one instead of flipping it for reuse.
- Ensure that you inform your partner of the risks of pregnancy and disease (if applicable).
- If the condom contains semen and you’re concerned about pregnancy, consider emergency contraception within 72-120 hours of intercourse.
Tips for Using Condoms
- Follow instructions and put it on properly.
- Check for air bubbles and leave a little space at the tip to contain ejaculated semen. Any flat, dry or sticky condom should be disposed of.
- Ensure to check the expiry date, especially if it has been stored for a long time, because expired condoms may break during intercourse and lead to unexpected risks.
- Ensure you store your condoms properly in a cool, dry and dark place and away from prying hands. This is because heat and humidity may be damaging.
- Use condoms that have water and silicone-based lubricants. If you must, use extra lubricants, but of the same constitution as the condom. It is best to avoid oil-based lubricants as they increase the risk of tension and breakage.
- Never reuse a condom; for each round, take it out and roll on a new one. Even while switching between different types of sex (anal, vaginal and oral). As such, always have an endless supply of condoms whenever you want to engage in intercourse.
