By George Omagbemi
Men who use their teeth to tear open condom packets have been warned that the habit could accidentally damage the condom and compromise its ability to prevent unintended pregnancy and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Medical experts say condoms are designed to provide a physical barrier, but that protection can be compromised if the condom is torn or punctured before it is used. Health authorities specifically advise users to avoid opening condom packages with their teeth, fingernails, scissors or other sharp objects.
A report published by Punch on Sunday, August 23, 2026, cited medical experts who warned that people who rush to open condoms with their teeth may unknowingly damage the latex.
The safest approach is to tear the wrapper carefully along its designated edge using the fingers, while ensuring that the condom itself is not caught in the tear.
Experts also advise checking the expiry date and inspecting the package for signs of damage before opening it. A condom with a damaged wrapper should not be used.
Condoms, when used correctly and consistently, can significantly reduce the risk of HIV, other sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. However, they are not completely foolproof, and proper handling is an important part of effective use.
Health guidance also recommends putting the condom on before genital contact, using a new condom for every act of sex and disposing of it after use.
The warning is therefore simple: do not allow haste to defeat the very protection you are trying to achieve.
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