The condom is a contraceptive method that offers 98% effectiveness, but even so, this estimate depends on some precautions the couple must take when using it. Getting pregnant with a condom is one of the most common reports among women, and to avoid this kind of occurrence it’s important to follow some steps to ensure safety during sexual intercourse.
Tips to Avoid the Risk of Getting Pregnant
Product Quality – Here in Brazil, it is important when buying a condom to check if it has the INMETRO quality seal1. In addition, you should check the expiration date, see if there are any signs of damage to the packaging, and in these cases, the ideal is to discard the product. Storage – The best way to store the product is in ventilated places, without humidity and away from sunlight. Heat can damage the latex. If There Is Any Problem – In case of any problem while handling the condom, the ideal is to discard it and use a new one. The wrapper should be opened only at the time of use. Correct Condom Size – The condom should fit the penis perfectly, so the correct size must be used. Putting It on the Penis – With the penis erect, the condom must be placed on the glans (tip of the penis), being careful to hold the tip of the product to avoid trapping air. Then, the condom should be unrolled to the base of the penis, and if it does not roll down naturally, it means it’s being put on inside out. When the condom is placed correctly, there will be a small space at the tip of the penis without any trapped air. Lubricants – If, even with the condom’s own lubrication, the couple feels the need for more lubricant, it’s best to use water-based products, because depending on the lubricant, the condom’s latex can be damaged. After Sexual Intercourse – After ejaculation, it’s not ideal to wait for the penis to lose its erection before withdrawing it from the vagina. If this happens, there is a risk that semen may leak out the sides. Another issue that can arise is the condom shrinking and getting lost inside the vaginal canal. And If the Condom Breaks? – Pregnancy with a condom usually happens in cases where the product breaks and the couple does not notice, or breaks and the couple does not take the necessary actions. If the condom breaks before ejaculation, the man should withdraw, wash his penis, and the same should be done by the woman, then use another condom. If this is done, the risk of pregnancy is very low. But if the condom breaks at the time of or right after ejaculation, it is best to use an emergency contraception method, such as the morning-after pill. Condom From the Start of Sexual Intercourse – Many couples make the mistake of starting intercourse and only later putting on the condom, which can increase the risk of pregnancy. In fact, some occurrences like lubrication of the penis (pre-ejaculate fluid) before ejaculation can also increase the risk of pregnancy.
Precautions Even Before Ejaculation
Many women who say ‘I got pregnant using a condom’ usually have similar stories. Often the couple began having sex first and only then put on the condom. The pre-ejaculate fluid that lubricates the penis before ejaculation does not contain sperm2, but the risk can occur if: the man has a brief ejaculation (when the man may release small bursts of semen) or if there are sperm even before ejaculation in the penile duct (when the pre-ejaculate comes out, it could carry sperm present in the duct from a previous ejaculation). Getting pregnant using a condom can happen, so the couple should pay attention to these tips that can guarantee the promised effectiveness of this contraceptive method3. See also: Getting Pregnant While Taking Birth Control – Is It Possible?
