How to Stop Condoms from Breaking

Here are some tips to help prevent this from happening.

1. Using lots of lube… and the right sort
   Using plenty of lube both on the condom and around the anus of the man bottoming makes it less likely the condom will break (or slip off). Water-based (or silicone-based) lubes are the only ones it’s safe to use with condoms (oil-based lubes weaken condoms).
2. Using the right size condom for the penis
   If a condom is too tight it’s more likely to split (and will be more uncomfortable to put on and wear).  Look for longer, wider and larger condoms to use.
3. Keeping air out
   Try to avoid air getting trapped underneath the condom as you put it on – this can make the condom break if there is air in the condom.  For example if there is air in the condom when you ejaculate (cum) there is no space left for the semen (cum) to go therefore the condom might break.  If your condom has a tip at the end of the condom, squeeze the air out with your finger and thumb as you roll the condom on.
4. Trying not to stretch the condom
   Stretching or rolling the condom before it’s on the penis makes it more likely to break.
5. Using one condom at a time
   Using two condoms (one on top of another) isn’t safe. In fact, the extra friction of two condoms rubbing against each other causes heat and makes them more likely to break.
6. Changing the condom
   Studies show that after about half an hour of sexual activity a condom’s more likely to break. So check every once in a while to see if the condom is okay.  Add more lube and consider putting on a fresh condom after about 30 minutes.
7. Using quality condoms
   Check the ‘expiration' date that appears on the condom package. If the date has expired, don’t use the condom 
8. Storing your condoms properly
   Condoms need to be kept away from hot or damp places, out of direct sunlight and shouldn’t be crushed or smashed because this pushes the protective air and lubrication out of the condom packet which can cause the condom to break. Keeping them in your pants pocket, wallet, glove box of a car, etc. can weaken them and they’re more likely to break.

If a condom breaks and you’re worried about HIV being passed on or picked up, get tested.  To find out where to be tested for HIV and other STIs in Wake County CLICK HERE

To view places in Wake County to get free condoms CLICK HERE

To learn more about how to use a condom correctly, see the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Tips For Using Condoms And Dental Dams.

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Tests:  Find places where you can get free HIV/STD testing in Wake County. 

Condoms:  Find places where you can get free condoms in Wake County. 

For general information about Wake County’s HIV/STD program and testing, please call 919-250-3950.
Do you have questions about HIV/STDs that you want answered?  E-mail questions to: std.program@wakegov.com 

To see all other resources in Wake County, North Carolina & the United States, CLICK HERE to return to our resources and links page.

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This education awareness project is sponsored by the
LGBT Center of Raleigh.   
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Created and designed by Luke Keeler.

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Info from CDC, AIDS.gov and THT

Page last updated:  04/01/17