Expert: Kristen Brannock, MPH - 8/14/2007

Question
The other day I had sex with this guy I've been seeing for a few weeks, who stated early on he's hiv negative, and was tested about 2 years ago, but hasnt had any partners since. I was the giver in anal sex, wore a condom and used plenty of water-based lube. We only had sex for about 10 mins until he ejaculated, but I did not. Afterwards, I took off the condom and threw it out. Then the next day, I read something online about how to put a condom on properly. It said to pinch the top so no there are no air bubbles that could burst the rubber. I didnt do that during my encounter, which has gotten me a little worried, even though I didnt notice any holes in it when I removed it. My question is: is it a big deal if one doesnt pinch it?

Answer
Actually, it is a big deal...when condoms are used correctly, they prevent the spread of HIV up to 99%. Using them correctly includes removing excess air but pinching the tip.

When the air is left in, it can sometimes break the condom when the person ejaculates because there needs to be room for the semen too. If you did not notice any tearing, then you have no reason to worry.

Since you did not ejaculate, the likelihood of tearing is really low. Tearing occurs when someone ejaculates and there isnt room for it, based on the air left in the tip.

I dont think you have any reason to worry. But it is IMPERATIVE that you use condoms correctly, which ALWAYS includes pinching the tip.

Now you know. Dont stress.