Do condoms really cause erection problems?

While for many couples, these are simply an inconvenience, for others the problems run deeper. In one 2015 study, involving 479 men aged 18-24, the majority had some kind of condom-associated erection problems (CAEPs). Around 14% said they tended to lose their erection while putting the condom on, and 16% had problems during intercourse itself. Nearly a third had erection problems in both these scenarios.

"Condom-associated erection problems (CAEPs) are an underestimated factor related to inconsistent or incomplete male condom use," said the study authors.

Finding the right fit

According to Dr Anatole Menon-Johansson, clinical director of Brook, condom issues are common among Brook's clients. The charity provides sexual well-being support for people under 25.

"The problem with a condom is that, just like safety belts in cars and helmets for bicycles, they're not necessarily comfortable," he says. "It can take away the sensation associated with penetrative sex and it also gets in the way of the moment."

He points out that, while most guys can still have sex with a condom on, it may take a bit of experimentation to find one that suits.

"For young men who are trying condoms for the first time, it's good to try a range and see which ones feel comfortable, as some are tighter than others," he says. "At Brook we often give out a selection to our clients, just so they can work out which ones are best for them. Then we find that they come back asking for specific brands, shapes, and sizes."

It's also a good idea to incorporate the condom into foreplay (maybe getting your partner to roll it on for you), as this should allow you both to stay in the moment. You could also apply some lubricant inside the condom, although don't go too crazy here or the condom may slip off. And never use oil-based lubricants, which can damage the latex and cause it to break.

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Managing anxiety

In many instances, what's causing the problem isn't so much the condom itself, as anxiety relating to condom use.

"Men may be anxious about making sure the condom is properly fitted, and if there are erection problems to start with this can significantly increase levels of anxiety," says Peter Saddington, a counsellor and sex therapist at Relate. "It can become a self-fulfilling prophecy where you think 'I will lose my erection' and then you do."

In other cases, putting a condom on can remind you about what you're trying to avoid - namely pregnancy and STIs. Once your mind has taken this detour, it can be harder to stay aroused.

"Anxiety is interpreted by the brain as a threat and this triggers the fight or flight reaction," says Saddington. "The body's chemical response means that arousal is diminished - it becomes more about defence and survival, as opposed to sex."

One possible solution is to practise putting the condom on by yourself, away from the pressure of sexual intercourse.

"You'll become quicker and more confident, which should, in turn, reduce some of the anxiety," says Saddington. "Once you feel confident doing this on your own, you may want to try it when your partner is present - again without the pressure of trying to have sex at the same time."

Talking to your partner

If this is a recurring problem for you, it's important to put any embarrassment aside and have an honest conversation with your partner. While this may feel awkward initially, being open about the issue should reduce anxiety, making it easier to slow things down and take your time.

"Express your desire to make sure that both you and your partner are safe and that this is important to you, but that you get nervous, especially when you're with someone you really like and don't want to disappoint them," says Saddington. "Your partner will then understand what you are feeling and will want to be supportive. When someone you like asks for help there is usually a strong desire to respond."

Alternative options

If you're in a stable relationship and really hate condoms, it may be appropriate to bring up the topic of other forms of contraception. Assuming you have both been checked for STIs, there are many alternative options, broadly grouped into hormonal (pills, patches, rings), barrier methods and long-acting reversible contraception.

"One of the conversations heterosexual couples should be having is about different types of contraception," says Menon-Johansson. "If the woman doesn't want to use a hormonal method, there is the IUCD, which is a fantastic hormone-free contraceptive method that is much more effective than condoms."

If you would prefer a barrier contraceptive, there are also female condoms (such as Femidoms), which are placed into the vagina before sex and may improve sensation from the man's side. You could also try 'pull' non-latex condoms, which are ultra-thin and are pulled on like a sock.

"If the association of rolling on a condom is negative, maybe pulling on a polyethylene condom might go down better," says Menon-Johansson.

Really, it comes down to applying some creative thinking around the issue. As Menon-Johansson explains, there are two main stumbling blocks here: firstly that people haven't tried a range of condoms and are giving up on them too quickly; secondly that they’re not engaging with their partner.

"If condoms are what you have, the best approach is to make sure you find the right size, talk to your partner about it, and try to incorporate it into foreplay," he says. "You'll be surprised how impactful those simple measures can be."