Teeth Use Could Damage Condom Protection, Experts Warn

Medical experts have warned that opening condoms with teeth could compromise their effectiveness and increase the risk of unintended pregnancy, HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections.

The experts cautioned that although condoms remain one of the major tools for preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies, their protection depends largely on correct and consistent use.

According to health professionals, using teeth to tear open condom packs may accidentally create tiny cuts or holes on the condom itself, making it ineffective even before use.

A Senior Prevention Programme Manager at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Adeleye Taofeek, explained that condom wrappers are designed to be opened by hand from specific edges, warning that people who struggle with opening the packs often resort to unsafe methods such as using teeth, scissors or blades.

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Taofeek said such actions could damage the condom’s quality and integrity, noting that any tear or perforation could defeat the purpose of using the product for protection.

The Head of Project at the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, Dr Oladipupo Fisher, also advised users against opening condoms with their teeth, stressing that the barrier protection provided by condoms could be compromised if the condom is damaged before use.

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Fisher urged people to carefully open condom packs with their hands and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, adding that proper handling is essential to ensure maximum protection against HIV, sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy.

The experts also advised users to check condom expiry dates before use, as expired condoms may have reduced quality and could fail during sexual activity.

They further warned against using oil-based substances such as palm oil and vegetable oils as lubricants with latex condoms, explaining that such products can weaken the material and increase the chances of breakage.

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that condoms are safe, affordable and highly effective when used correctly and consistently, adding that they remain an important method for preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.

Health experts therefore urged people to avoid rushing during sexual activity and pay attention to proper condom use, stressing that small mistakes during handling could undermine the protection condoms are designed to provide.

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