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KidsHealth > Teens > Expert Answers on. . . > Sexual Health > What If the Condom Slipped Off During Sex?


Once when my boyfriend and I had sex, he pulled out [before climax], and the condom stuck inside of me. Is this dangerous?
Betty*

Always wearing a condom during sex is a good way to help prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. So, good going on using condoms. Sometimes, though, condoms do come off during sex. That's less likely to happen if the condom is put on properly — that is, pulled up completely and not just part of the way. And while there aren't lots of sizes of condoms like there are pants sizes, some brands fit differently from others. Your boyfriend should pick the size and brand that fits comfortably and snugly.

If a condom does slip off during sex, some sperm could escape into the vagina — and that could result in a pregnancy (and/or an infection). Also, while using a condom, make sure that your partner pulls out immediately following ejaculation. And when pulling out, he should hold the condom around its base so it doesn't slip off.

If a condom does get stuck inside the vagina, once you are able to get it out, make sure it's intact and that there aren't pieces remaining inside. If you can't successfully remove the condom completely, or if you're not sure if it's completely out, you should see a doctor immediately. Even if the whole condom came out, you may need to see the doctor to check for pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

For more information, check out these articles:
Condom
Talking to Your Partner About Condoms
Emergency Contraception
Birth Control Methods: How Well Do They Work?
About Birth Control: What You Need to Know

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: December 2007

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*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.





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