Misconception: You can't put on a condom if you don't have one.
OK, this is technically true, but we're putting it in the misconception category unless you live in, say, a remote village in Yemen. If not, this excuse is just doesn't hold water. Condoms are easy to find. You can buy them in a supermarket, convenience store, pharmacy, clinic and even from the vending machines you'll find in many public restrooms. If you think you'll be getting lucky, keep a couple on hand.
Misconception: It's a good idea to carry a condom at all times.
This is somewhat true, but it depends on how you're carrying it. Although any condom is better than no condom, these love gloves should be stored properly for the best results. Condoms stored in areas that are warm or damp, for instance, can begin to weaken and become brittle with time. This can lead to holes or tears. If possible, condoms should always be stored in a cool, dry safe place.
Misconception: A man doesn't have to put on a condom until he's ready to climax.
Um no. A man should put on a condom before any sexual activity takes place, not just before be ejaculates. That's because pre-ejaculate, the clear fluid that can seep out of the penis prior to ejaculation, carries a small amount of viable sperm. Although the chances are small that this amount of sperm can get a woman pregnant, it is still possible, as is the risk of transmitting a sexually transmitted infection. (Learn more amazing facts about the males species in 10 Things You Don't Know About Penises.)
Misconception: Two condoms are better than one.
While wearing two condoms may seem like the logical way to add an extra layer of protection, this couldn't be further from the truth. Some people also think that this tactic will reduce a man's sensitivity, helping him to last longer. The fact is, wearing two condoms is actually worse than wearing just one. That's because the friction of latex against latex can weaken both condoms, making them more prone to breaking. One condom will do the trick. And if a man's concerned about too much sensitivity, there are products to help with that problem as well.
Misconception: You can take a second round with the same condom.
Reusing a condom is, well, kinda gross, whether the man's ejaculated or not. It's also kinda risky. The condom may be weaker the second time around, making it more prone to breaking.
How to Put on a Condom...Properly
Now that we've quashed some of the most common excuses for not wearing a condom, it's important that when you do use a condom you use it properly - perfectly - each and every time. Before going for the real thing, feel free to practice on yourself, your partner, a dildo, or a choice piece of produce from the nearest supermarket.
Step 1: Visually inspect the condom package. If it's ripped, damaged or the expiration date printed on it has passed, toss it.
Step 2: Open the package. Tear it open with your fingers along the dotted line at the top. Never use anything sharp to open a condom package - that includes your teeth.
Step 3: Place the condom over the tip of an erect penis, with the rolled rim on the outside. It should look like a little hat on Admiral Winkie.
Step 4: Remove the air from the tip of the condom.This can be done by pinching the tip gently with your fingers. This provides some room for semen, making the condom less likely to break.
Step 5: Roll the condom carefully down the shaft of the penis. If you use your mouth, just keep your teeth clear. If a condom gets damaged while you're putting it on, don't take any chances - remove it and start over with a fresh one.
Step 6: OK, so we added a bonus step, but removing a condom properly after use is just as important as putting a condom on properly. It should be removed immediately after intercourse. To ensure that the condom does not leak or come off during removal, grasp it at the base of the penis as it is withdrawn. It should then be removed, tied shut and thrown away.
Got it? Repeat as needed. Just make sure you do it right.
