It is important to use protection during sexual intercourse. When used properly, latex condoms are an excellent measure to take when protecting yourself from STDs and unwanted pregnancy. Condoms are often viewed as a simple and effective tool for sexual protection. Some people on the internet think that using more than one condom adds extra protection. Certainly though, two condoms are not better than one.
Perhaps you have heard the phrase, “Two heads are better than one.” This is the idea that when two people work together on a problem they can find a better solution than if they had worked alone. The internet seems to say that this logic is being applied to the use of contraceptives, especially the male latex condom. The thinking seems to be that more latex between you and your partner will mean more protection from pregnancy and STDs and decreased sensitivity in men. Thanks to the popularity of films like American Pie, this myth seems to be spreading.
To debunk the myth that two condoms are better than using one, we will first look at how the male condom works. Condoms work by stopping semen from entering the vagina. The male condom can be placed by the man on a his penis when it becomes erect. This should be done before sexual contact is made. The condom is unrolled all the way to the base of the penis while holding the tip of the condom to leave some extra room at the end. This creates a space for semen after ejaculation and makes it less likely that the condom will break.
How does using two condoms at once compromise your sexual health protection? Well, first, the male condom is designed to be placed on the penis by itself. Placing a second condom over it will only cause more tension and even more friction. This kind of friction can actually cause additional leakage and even tearing of the condom itself. Lastly, using two condoms at the same time will cause a condom not to fit correctly on the penis. Any time a condom does not fit properly, it runs the risk of slipping off entirely. This means the condom cannot protect you or your partner from the dangers of unprotected sex.
The second part of this myth involves the loss of sexual sensitivity when using condoms. A 2007 study conducted at Indiana University revealed that most men over the age of 18 did not notice any decrease in sexual sensitivity over a 30 day trial. The study concluded that most modern men do not believe sexual sensitivity is lowered by the use of latex condoms.
You should always check a condom before use to make sure it has not already been damaged. Some things to see if a condom is usable include checking the expiration date and doing a pillow test to make sure there is still air inside of the package. When opening a condom, tear the package carefully and do not use your teeth. This can cause accidental tearing of the condom itself. If the condom looks damaged, brittle, or discolored, do not use it. Lastly, always make sure to store your condoms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Remember, once a condom has been used, it can not be reused. Every time you have sex, you should use a new condom. Additionally, do not use oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly or baby oil with a condom. These oils can cause a breakdown in the latex rubber that makes up the walls of the condom.
While investigating this myth, one truth became abundantly clear; the use of multiple condoms at one time actually increases the risk of pregnancy and STD transmission. It is just that simple. In order to be protected by a condom, that condom has to be used correctly. If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to an STD, you should have STD testing performed.