Study shows incorrect condom use common worldwide

According to an analysis published in the journal of Sexual Health, the incorrect use of male condoms has become a concern for public health officials worldwide, CBS News reports (DyBuncio, 2/24). Researchers from the Kinsey Institute Condom Use Research Team (CURT) reviewed 50 articles from 14 countries and found "errors in condom use -- such as putting it on too late, or not using condoms throughout sex, or not leaving space at the tip -- are common worldwide," according to WebMD Health News.

"Researchers say the results suggest that user errors are a major contributor to condom failure rates, and millions of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections could be avoided by improved condom use," the news service writes (Warner, 2/24). "Making condoms accessible to people who need them is important, but improved clinic-based counseling, public education and Internet-based education efforts are all key requirements to their correct use," according to Richard Crosby, a member of CURT and professor at the University of Kentucky, an Indiana University press release states (2/22).