Condom Torn? Here’s What to Do.

You were using a condom, but during or after sex, you realize it’s torn. Not what you wanted to see, right? Whether you were using a condom to protect yourself or your partner from STDs or to prevent pregnancy, a tear can feel like a serious setback. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do next, why a condom might tear, and how to prevent it from happening again.

Condom Ruptured and Not on the Pill? Could I Be Pregnant?

If you’re not on the pill or using another form of birth control, there’s a risk of pregnancy even if your partner didn’t ejaculate inside you. Why? Because pre-cum can contain sperm cells too. To be safe, it’s best to get the morning-after pill as soon as possible—preferably within 24 hours, but at most within 72 hours. You can pick up a morning-after pill at the pharmacy or drugstore for around €17. No prescription needed, no questions asked, and no age limit.

Condom Ripped. Do I Have an STD Now?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to know for sure without getting tested. Unless you and your partner were recently tested and haven’t had unprotected sex with others, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Many STDs don’t show symptoms right away (or ever), so don’t take unnecessary risks. The easiest way to get tested is through your doctor. They’ll tell you which tests you need and when to take them.

Not comfortable going to your doctor? You can visit an STI clinic or use a home test. Keep in mind that home tests aren’t as reliable as the ones done by professionals, so we recommend getting tested through your doctor or at a clinic whenever possible.

Here’s when to get tested after unprotected sex:

  • Chlamydia or Gonorrhea: 2 weeks after exposure
  • HIV, Syphilis, or Hepatitis: 3 months after exposure

    • Until you get the all-clear, always use a condom to protect your partner(s) from any potential transmission.

    How to Prevent a Condom from Tearing

    Condoms go through rigorous testing and are designed to be strong and stretchy. But because they’re so thin, they can be vulnerable to damage if not handled correctly. Most of the time, tearing happens because of damage during storage or use. Below are the main causes of condom tears and how you can prevent them:

    1. Not Meeting Quality Standards

    Problem: The condom doesn’t have a CE mark.
    Solution: In Europe, condoms must have a CE mark, which means they meet safety and quality standards. Always check for this when buying condoms. (Yes, Wingman Condoms have it!)

    Problem: The condom is expired.
    Solution: Condoms typically last 1-5 years. Check the expiration date on the package before use.

    Problem: Improper storage.
    Solution: Store your condoms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

    Problem: Damage when opening the package.
    Solution: Tear open the condom along the edge — don’t use scissors, teeth, or anything sharp.

    Problem: Damage from nails, jewelry, or other sharp objects.
    Solution: Be careful when putting on and handling the condom. Tip: Wingman’s unique design prevents you from touching the condom directly, reducing the risk of damage.

    Problem: Using the wrong lubricants.
    Solution: Avoid creams, oils, and fats. Only use water- or silicone-based lubricants. (Tip: Wingman lubricant. is a perfect match.)

    2. Incorrect Use of the Condom

    Even the highest-quality condom can tear if used incorrectly. Here are some common mistakes:

    Problem: Not leaving enough space at the tip or trapping air inside.
    Solution: Make sure there’s a little space at the tip (called the reservoir) and squeeze out any air before putting the condom on.

    Problem: Using the same condom for too long.
    Solution: After 15-20 minutes of heavy use, the condom can become less reliable. Swap it out for a new one to stay safe.

    Problem: Unrolling the condom incorrectly.
    Solution: Trying to put on the condom the wrong way can transfer pre-cum from the penis to the outside of the condom, which could lead to unwanted pregnancy or infection. If you put it on wrong, throw it away and use a new one.


    Wingman’s wings solve a lot of these issues. They let you put the condom on in one smooth motion without touching it directly, making it super easy to tell which side is up and keeping air out of the tip.
    Check out the Wingman Condom and see why it’s a game-changer.