CDC warns not to wash and reuse condoms: 'We say it because people do it'

The CDC released a disturbing warning through social media reminding sexually active individuals that condoms are meant only for single use.

As hard to believe as it might be, according to the Centers for Disease Control, some people think it is okay to wash condoms and then reuse them. However, this is actually a very dangerous idea.

The CDC tweeted a link to their official website where people can inform themselves about the importance of properly using condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases and to help prevent unwanted pregnancies.

According to the CDC, education about correct condom use is more important than ever, given that the number of STD and STI cases in the US continues to rise, with more than two million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis reported in 2016.

When condoms are properly used, they cannot only prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. It can protect people against other diseases like Zika and Ebola that also spread through sexual contact.

However, the CDC states that for condom use to be effective, you should always use a new condom for every act of vaginal, anal and oral intercourse throughout the entire act (from start to finish).

Elizabeth Torrone, an epidemiologist at the CDC’s Division of STD Prevention, told BuzzFeed News that “Reusing a condom or using more than one at a time, diminishes the protective effect of condoms by leading to condom breakage, slippage, or leakage.”

Try to make sure to store your condoms in a cool environment and away from any sharp objects. You should also make a habit of checking the expiration date on the package, and never use an expired condom.

Another important practice is to push the condom to the opposite side of the package before opening it to avoid the rubber from tearing. Take the condom out and pinch the tip closed to prevent air from getting trapped inside to prevent it to rip during coitus.

Then all you have to do is roll it down all the way and once you're done, roll it back up carefully and put it in the trash bin. Don’t ever flush it down the toilet.