Mistakes in condom use

The Most Common Mistakes When Using Condoms – and How to Avoid Them
Condoms are a key component of modern, responsible sexuality. They reliably protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies – provided they are used correctly. However, reality shows that many condom failures are caused by simple, avoidable mistakes. A crucial factor is the fit. This is precisely where JOYDIVISION's MY.SIZE condoms come in.

In this guide, we show the most common mistakes when using condoms and explain how they can be avoided with the right knowledge and the appropriate MY.SIZE condoms.

1. Putting the Condom On Too Late
A common mistake is to put the condom on just before ejaculation. Sperm and pathogens can be transmitted during foreplay or initial penetration.

Better:
The condom should be put on before the first genital contact – as soon as the penis is erect.

2. Using the wrong condom size – a classic mistake
Many people automatically reach for standard condoms, even though these don't fit perfectly. A condom that's too big can slip off, while one that's too small can tear or pinch uncomfortably. Both compromise safety and sensation.

JOYDIVISION's solution:

MY.SIZE condoms are available in numerous nominal widths, allowing for a perfect fit. The right size ensures a secure fit, reduces the risk of leaks, and increases comfort – a core quality standard at JOYDIVISION.

3. Putting the condom on inside out
If a condom is put on inside out and then turned over, pre-ejaculate or germs can get onto the outside.

Better to do this:

Make sure the condom unrolls smoothly. If it doesn't, discard it and use a new one – ideally in the correct MY.SIZE size.

4. Leaving air in the tip of the condom

If air remains in the reservoir, pressure can build up during ejaculation. This increases the risk of the condom breaking.

Do this instead:

Squeeze the tip when putting it on to leave enough room for the semen.

5. Wrong or insufficient lubricant

Sex that’s too dry increases friction and thus the strain on the condom. Oil- or fat-based products can also damage latex.

Do this instead:

Use a sufficient amount of water- or silicone-based lubricant that’s safe for condoms. Combined with a well-fitting MY.SIZE condom, this significantly reduces strain on the material.

6. Expired or damaged condoms

Expired condoms lose their elasticity, and damaged packaging may indicate that the material has been compromised.

Do this instead:

Check the expiration date and packaging before use. JOYDIVISION places great emphasis on tested quality for MY.SIZE condoms—but they only provide full protection when stored properly.

7. Storing condoms incorrectly

Heat, pressure, or friction—such as in a car or wallet—can damage condoms without you noticing.

Do this instead:

Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from light, and replace them regularly.

8. Not removing the condom correctly after ejaculation

If the penis is withdrawn only after it has softened, the condom may slip off and semen may leak out.

Do this instead:

Withdraw the penis while it is still erect and hold the condom firmly at the rim.

9. Using two condoms at the same time

The idea of double protection is misleading: Two condoms create more friction and increase the risk of tearing.

Do it this way instead:

A single, perfectly fitting MY.SIZE condom offers optimal protection.

Conclusion: Fit is prevention

Most mistakes in condom use can be easily avoided—especially by choosing the right size. With MY.SIZE condoms from JOYDIVISION, a custom fit becomes the standard. The result: greater safety, a better feel, and a more relaxed approach to contraception.

For decades, JOYDIVISION has stood for quality, education, and innovation in the field of sexual health — MY.SIZE is the logical answer to the question of why condoms shouldn’t simply be “one size fits all.”