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Does it fit okay? Problems with condom use as a function of self-reported poor fit
R A Crosby1, W L Yarber, C A Graham
1College of Public Health at the University of Kentucky, 121 Washington Avenue, Suite 113, Lexington, KY 40506, USA. crosby@uky.edu
Sexually Transmitted Infections
|February 17, 2010
Summary
Ill-fitting condoms are linked to increased breakage, slippage, and reduced sexual pleasure for both partners. Addressing condom fit can improve sexual health outcomes and user satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Sexual health research
- Public health initiatives
- Men's health
Background:
- Condom use is a key strategy for preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
- User experience, including condom fit, can significantly impact consistent and correct condom usage.
- Understanding factors associated with condom problems is crucial for effective sexual health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the associations between men's self-reported ill-fitting condoms and various condom use problems.
- To identify specific issues men experience when using condoms that do not fit properly.
- To inform public health strategies aimed at improving condom effectiveness and user satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- A convenience sample of 436 men completed an online questionnaire assessing condom use experiences.
- The study employed event-specific analyses to examine associations between condom fit and reported problems.
- Participants were recruited through newspaper advertisements and a condom company's blog, with inclusion criteria including age, recent condom use, and English proficiency.
Main Results:
- Men reporting ill-fitting condoms were significantly more likely to experience condom breakage (AOR 2.6) and slippage (AOR 2.7).
- Ill-fitting condoms were associated with reduced sexual pleasure, difficulty reaching orgasm, and interference with erection for both partners.
- Users of ill-fitting condoms also reported increased penile irritation (AOR 5.0) and a greater likelihood of removing the condom before intercourse completion (AOR 2.0).
Conclusions:
- Condom fit is a critical factor influencing condom effectiveness and user experience.
- Public health campaigns promoting appropriately fitting condoms could enhance user satisfaction and reduce condom-related issues.
- Addressing condom fit may lead to improved sexual health outcomes for men and their partners.
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