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Men with broken condoms: who and why?
R A Crosby1, W L Yarber, S A Sanders
1College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, 121 Washington Avenue, Room 111C, Lexington, KY 40506-0003, USA. crosby@uky.edu
Sexually Transmitted Infections
|July 28, 2006
Summary
Condom breakage is common among young men, with nearly a third experiencing it. Factors like past STIs, condom slippage, and incorrect use increase breakage risk.
Area of Science:
- Sexual Health
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Condom breakage is a significant concern in preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of condom breakage is crucial for targeted interventions among young men who have sex with women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of condom breakage among young men attending STI clinics.
- To identify demographic and sexual behavior correlates associated with condom breakage.
- To explore specific condom use behaviors linked to breakage events.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 278 young men attending STI clinics.
- Anonymous questionnaires assessed condom use, breakage, slippage, and self-efficacy.
- Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate statistical methods.
Main Results:
- 31.3% of participants reported recent condom breakage, with a breakage rate of 15%.
- Factors associated with breakage included a history of STIs (AOR 2.08), condom slippage (AOR 2.72), and lower self-efficacy in condom use (AOR 1.07).
- Specific behaviors linked to breakage included contact with sharp objects (AOR 2.6), poor condom fit/feel (AOR 2.3), and failure to expel air from the tip (AOR 2.0).
Conclusions:
- Condom breakage is prevalent and often occurs within a broader context of condom use difficulties.
- STI clinics present an opportunity to provide education on correct condom usage to mitigate breakage risks.