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Medical Video: 7 Condom Myths Debunked For Your Protection
Paintings in the cave from 12,000 years ago claimed to show evidence of condom use for the first time in history. The oldest condom ever found originated from 1642. So, it's safe to say that condoms have been circulating for a long time.
But unfortunately, there are many myths about condoms and their use which have also been circulating for a long time, stopping many people from using this important safety method.
Trusting myths and gossip about condoms that are widely circulating out there can hurt you and make you insecure if they are torn. Make sure that you know the facts about condoms before you have sex. Understanding of right and wrong is valuable knowledge.
Myth # 1: Condoms are easy to tear
Fact: Not. To avoid the risk of your condom being torn, always check the expiration date and keep it in a safe place. Discard if the condom is stored for too long. When using a condom, make sure you know how to use it correctly: pinch the tip of the condom slowly with both of your fingers to avoid clumping the air at the end. For added comfort and pleasure, drop a little lubricant on the tip of the condom and on the penis.
Myth # 2: Two layers of condoms are safer
Fact: Although it sounds reasonable, coating two condoms for one use does not mean that the protective properties will be guaranteed. Two condoms that are used together will cause more friction; risk of tearing in one layer, or even both. Not only do you have to use one condom at a time, but male condoms should also not be used with female condoms (for the same reason).
Myth # 3: Condoms are the only means of contraception
Fact: Wrong. A study of the effectiveness of condoms reviewed that, when compared to not using condoms, people who use condoms during sexual intercourse can reduce the overall risk of HIV / AIDS transmission by 80-87%. But to get a better guarantee of protection, use condoms that are accompanied by other contraceptive methods, such as spirals (IUDs), implants, injections, or pills.
Myth # 4: Vaseline is good for lubricants
Fact: Not. A little lubricant support is necessary, but don't use oil-based products, such as baby lotion, body lotion, or hand cream. Oil can damage latex. If you want to use additional lubricants or lotions while using a condom, make sure you use special water-based condom lubricants sold on the market.
Myth # 5: Condoms are only for penetrative sex
Fact: Not. Condoms can indeed provide protection from sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV / AIDS, and unplanned pregnancies, but venereal disease can also be transmitted through oral, anal sex, or using unprotected sex toys. Even with no risk of venereal disease, bacteria from the anus can easily enter the male urethra and cause bladder tract infections.
Myth # 6: Universal condom size
Fact: Condoms are available in very wide varieties, ranging in length, width, to shape. A condom can generally stretch up to 45 centimeters, but not all condoms are the size of each person. If your condom is torn, detached inside, sags, or is too loose to feel uncomfortable, then the size of the condom you are using is not right. Do not use the reason "not fit" because there is no penis that is too big for a condom.
Myth # 7: Condoms reduce sex drive
Fact: Some people believe that condoms will reduce the sensation during sex because it can block blood circulation. In fact, it's not like that. Using a condom will make men more durable before ejaculation. There are many types of condoms sold on the market that can help you and your partner explore during sex.
In addition, some sexually transmitted diseases will not show physical symptoms. So, there is a high chance that you and your partner can infect one another without you knowing. Using condoms is the safest choice.
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