As many as 30% of people worldwide admit to flipping a condom over after initially trying and failing to put it on inside out, according to research from the Kinsey Institute. That figure could equate to millions of people across the UK.
Augustina Vasilachi, professional standards pharmacist at Pharmacy2U, said: 'Many would be surprised at the large number of Brits who still routinely make preventable errors that can significantly reduce the effectiveness of male condoms.'
Why flipping a condom is risky
When faced with an inside out condom that won't roll down properly, turning it over may seem like a harmless solution. However, as Vasilachi explains, this means the outside of the condom will have already touched the penis, 'leaving sexual partners exposed, increasing the risk of pregnancy and STIs.'
'It's important to throw it away after [incorrectly applying] and replace it with a fresh one before continuing,' she added.
Common experiences and effectiveness
On a recent r/internetparents post, a Redditor asked for advice after absentmindedly flipping a condom over before sex. One commenter reassured them it was 'a very common scenario that the vast majority of people who use condoms have experienced.' Some were relaxed, telling them not to worry as it 'happens all the time', while others argued incorrect condom application 'completely defeats the purpose of wearing one at all.'
Condoms provide the best protection against STIs of all contraception methods and, even when used incorrectly, are 82% effective at preventing pregnancy. That figure increases to 98% when they are used correctly every time.
NHS advice for correct use
The NHS advises using a new condom every time you have sex, following the instructions on the packet, checking the use by date has not expired, and checking for a European CE mark or UKCA mark to ensure it has been tested to high safety standards. It also advises against using more than one condom, as this can make one or both split, and against using oil-based lubricant with latex condoms, recommending water-based or silicone-based lubricant instead.
If a condom splits or comes off during sex, the NHS advises speaking to a pharmacist, sexual health clinic, 111 or a GP for advice.
