Likelihood That a Condom Will Break or Slip Off is at Least Partly Related to User's Characteristics

Abstract

This prospective follow-up study examined the correlation between condom breakage and slippage and the characteristics of the user. Study participants were recruited from among 18-34 year old nonpregnant women attending a sexually transmitted disease clinic in Birmingham Alabama. Analyses were based on 892 women who reported condom use. Recorded instances of vaginal intercourse were 34036; latex condoms were used in 64% of the encounters; and about 33% of those cases saw women reporting the use of a spermicide. Rates of breakage and slippage varied according to factors measured both at baseline and within the follow-up period. Using logistic regression analysis it was noted that the risk of condom breakage increased with a womans number of partners and her experience with condom use. However incidents of condom slippage were associated with women with children women having 6-10 partners having a new or casual partner and having had a condom break. Use of spermicide had a slightly protective effect on condom breakage and slippage.