Common Myths About Condoms

Myth #1: Condom use decreases one’s libido, causes impotence, and reduces or interferes with sexual pleasure.

Truth - There is no evidence to suggest that condom use causes impotence. Impotence has many causes, some physical and some emotional. Condoms themselves do not cause impotence.One may only experience problems with keeping an erection while wearing an UNLUBRICATED condom. Some couples may experience a decrease in sexual excitement while stopping to put on a condom, but seriously… wouldn’t you rather have safe sex than have to worry about the risk of pregnancy or an STD/STI?

Myth #2: Condoms can easily get lost in one’s vagina or uterus and can travel through the body, requiring surgery to get the condom out.

Truth - About 2% of condoms break or slip off completely during sex, primarily because they are used incorrectly. Holding the rim of the condom against the base of the penis when withdrawing after ejaculation can prevent the condom from slipping off and into the vagina. In the case that it does slip off, it will not go further than inside the vagina (no surgery needed). If at any point during sex, anyone notices the condom is broken/breaking or has slipped/is slipping, do not hesitate to bring it up! Discuss your options.

Myth #3: Condoms constrict an erect penis, causing premature ejaculation.

Truth - Using a condom does not cause premature ejaculation. Condoms can help users maintain an erection longer and prevent premature ejaculation.

Myth #4: Condoms encourage infidelity, promiscuity, or prostitution.

Truth - Evidence shows that condom use (or any other forms of contraception) does not affect sexual behavior. In fact, using contraception shows responsible behavior in order to avoid unintended pregnancy and STDs/STIs.

Myth #5: Condoms are not effective in preventing pregnancy or STDs/STIs, including HIV.

Truth - Condoms are the only contraceptive method that can protect against both pregnancy and STDs/STIs, including HIV transmission, when used for vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Condoms are most effective WHEN USED CORRECTLY. The risk of pregnancy or contracting STDs/STIs is greatest when condoms are not used correctly with every act of sex. Condoms do not have holes that HIV can pass through. When used consistently and correctly, condom use prevents 80% to 95% of HIV transmission that would have occurred without condoms.