What essential information should be included when teaching an adolescent about condom use?

When teaching adolescents about condom use, it is crucial to emphasize that condoms must be positioned after an erection has occurred. This instruction is essential to ensure efficacy; condoms are designed to fit securely on an erect penis for optimal protection against both sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. Educating adolescents about the correct timing for condom application helps them understand the importance of proper usage, which is a key factor in reducing risks associated with sexual activity.

In discussing this topic, it's also important to convey that condoms should never be applied to a flaccid penis, as this would not provide the necessary barrier during intercourse. Additionally, promoting the idea of reusing condoms is highly misleading and dangerous, as each condom is designed for single use to maintain its integrity and effectiveness. Lastly, while it's true that incorrect use of condoms can compromise their protective capabilities, emphasizing that they can protect against STIs even if misapplied would only create confusion and potentially lead to unsafe sexual practices.