Condoms are a standard item in the wallet of the man who is dating, and that’s a good thing because they can help prevent unintended pregnancy as well as the spread of sexually transmitted infections. However, condoms can diminish sensitivity, and this can lead to problems maintaining an erection. What can men do?
“Something horrible is invading New York. Something terrifying. Something you’ve never seen before. It’s the killer condom. The rubber that rubs you out.”
Can you imagine they made a horror film about fanged condoms? The quote comes from a movie trailer for a horror comedy “The Killer Condom”, based on a comic book. And it pretty much sums up our society’s relationship with the latex sheath.
Condoms are currently the only method to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections. When used right, they also help prevent unplanned pregnancy. Still, we treat them as a necessary evil.
Condom-Associated Erectile Problems are common
Lots of men complain that making love wearing a condom doesn’t feel natural. Erectile difficulties affect even very young users. According to a 2014 study of 479 young heterosexual participants, almost half of them reported erectile difficulties while using a condom. Does this pose the question can condoms cause erectile dysfunction?
For some men it was more problematic to put the protection on, others had difficulty maintaining an erection during vaginal contact. Here are some tips on how to deal with ED symptoms when you must use condoms.
Finding the right fit
If the condom is too tight or too loose, it may take longer to put it on. The more you have to think about it, the more distracted you get. This means a risk of losing your erection. Luckily, today we have a huge selection of condoms to choose from. Check out your local pharmacy, drugstore or adult store. Buy small packs of different condoms and brands. Make sure the items you get have a quality certificate and have been tested for safety.
In some locations, it’s possible to grab a free sample of different condom sizes from a sexual health center. Check out the one near you. Buying condoms online is another great option. Some producers offer a very wide range of sizes and even help you find the perfect fit.
Practice makes perfect
Does putting a condom on make you anxious? Perhaps you feel you have to do it very quickly so as not to spoil the mood? The necessity to interrupt intimate play to get the condom, open it and put in on can be a real distraction. Don’t feel ashamed if it weakens your erection, it’s perfectly normal.
The best way to reduce the application-related stress is to practice on your own. For example, keep a pack of condoms by your bedside and try to apply one when you wake up with an erection. Or put a condom on during masturbation. You may even discover new sensations when pleasuring yourself in a condom. And there will be less clean up after!
Ask for a helpful hand (or mouth)
Condom use doesn’t have to be a solo task. Let your partner put the rubber on for you, using their own hands… or even mouth. Make sure your lover doesn’t damage the sheath with long fingernails or teeth.
If your erection weakens during the application, know that it’s only temporary. Go back to what you were doing. Your partner may caress you with their hands until you are ready for more action. Remember to add extra lube so that the condom doesn’t dry out.
Let her… use a condom
If all else fails, try a female condom. This type of protection may look a little strange and takes a few tries to master but it’s worth it. Your partner may apply this condom before intercourse and keep it inside. This way you won’t have to worry about losing your erection when you decide to have intercourse.
Check if you may need ED treatment
It is possible that your erectile difficulties are not merely a result of condom use. According to the study mentioned above, men who reported condom-associated erectile problems were also more likely to experience ED symptoms while having condom-free sex. If in doubt, check with your physician. Click here to learn more about our highly effective and convenient treatment options.
Anka Grzywacz is a sexologist, reproductive health expert and Certified Sex Coach™. In her online practice she helps busy women and couples solve their intimate problems.