Imagine this: a romantic evening, the mood is perfect, everything is going smoothly, and just as things are about to heat up, disaster strikes—an embarrassing condom mishap. Maybe it’s a slip-up, a tear, or simply putting it on wrong. These condom mistakes are more common than you’d think and can cause you problems like Unwanted Pregnancy and STD’s. However with perfect use, condoms prevent pregnancy with 98 percent success, according to the World Health Organization.

Proper condom use isn’t just about avoiding these awkward moments; it’s a crucial aspect of sexual health. Correct usage of condoms is essential for preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies, providing peace of mind and protection for both partners.

This article delves into the 20 Condom Mistakes Men Make with condoms and, more importantly, how to avoid them. From choosing the right type and size to mastering the technique, we’ll guide you through ensuring a safer, smoother, and more enjoyable experience.

Pre-Use Mistakes

1. Improper storage:
Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keeping condoms in wallets or pockets where they can be exposed to friction, heat, or pressure can weaken them.

2. Not checking the expiration date:
Expired condoms are more likely to break. Always check the expiration date before use, and discard any expired condoms.

3. Not checking for damage:
Before use, inspect the condom package for any signs of damage, such as tears, holes, or punctures. Using a damaged condom increases the risk of breakage during intercourse.

4. Using teeth or sharp objects to open the package:
Using teeth or sharp objects to open the condom package can damage the condom inside. It’s best to use fingers to tear open the package carefully.

5. Using expired lubricants:
Just like condoms, lubricants have expiration dates. Using expired lubricants can affect their effectiveness and increase the risk of condom breakage.

Application Mistakes

6. Incorrect size:
Using a condom that doesn’t fit properly can increase the risk of breakage or slippage. It’s important to find the right size for a snug and secure fit.

7. Not leaving space at the tip:
Failing to leave a small reservoir at the tip of the condom can increase the risk of breakage. Squeezing out air and leaving a small space reduces the likelihood of the condom bursting during intercourse.

8. Putting the condom on inside out:
Condoms are designed to be rolled onto the penis in a specific direction. Putting a condom on inside out and then flipping it can increase the risk of exposing the partner to bodily fluids and STIs.

9. Not using lubrication:
Friction can cause condoms to break. Using a water-based lubricant can reduce friction and increase comfort during sex, making condoms less likely to tear.

10. Using oil-based lubricants:
Oil-based lubricants, such as petroleum jelly, lotions, or cooking oils, can weaken latex condoms, making them more likely to break. Stick to water-based or silicone-based lubricants.

During Use Mistakes

11. Not using a condom:
Some men might skip using condoms altogether, either due to a lack of awareness, trust, or discomfort. This puts them at risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies.

12. Putting it on too late:
Condoms should be put on before any genital contact occurs. Putting it on too late, after some sexual activity has already taken place, increases the risk of STIs and pregnancy.

13. Ignoring discomfort:
If a condom feels uncomfortable or painful during intercourse, it’s essential to address the issue immediately. Continuing despite discomfort can increase the risk of the condom breaking or slipping off.

14. Not using condoms for oral sex:
Condoms should be used during oral sex to reduce the risk of STIs, such as HIV, herpes, and gonorrhea, which can be transmitted through oral contact.

Removal and Aftercare Mistakes

15. Removing the condom too quickly:
After ejaculation, hold the base of the condom while withdrawing to prevent it from slipping off. Removing the condom too quickly can spill semen and increase the risk of pregnancy or STI transmission.

16. Not holding onto the base during withdrawal:
After ejaculation and before withdrawing, it’s essential to hold onto the base of the condom to prevent it from slipping off. Failure to do so can result in the condom coming off inside the partner, increasing the risk of pregnancy and STIs.

Miscellaneous Mistakes

17. Switching between different types of condoms:
It’s important to use only one type of condom at a time. Switching between different types, such as latex and non-latex, can increase the risk of breakage due to compatibility issues between materials.

18. Not discussing condom use with a partner:
Open communication about condom use is crucial in sexual relationships. Failing to discuss condom use with a partner can lead to misunderstandings, assumptions, and ultimately, unprotected sex.

19. Relying solely on condoms for birth control:
Condoms are effective for preventing STIs and pregnancy, but using them with other methods, like birth control pills or IUDs, offers better protection against unintended pregnancy.

20. Not seeking help for condom-related issues:
If a man experiences frequent condom breakage, discomfort, or other issues, it’s essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on proper condom use and recommend alternative options if necessary.

Conclusion

In summary, men often make various mistakes with condoms that can significantly reduce their effectiveness. Common errors include improper storage, not checking the expiration date, using incorrect sizes, putting condoms on incorrectly, and not using proper lubrication. Mistakes during use, such as putting the condom on too late or ignoring discomfort, as well as removal and aftercare errors, like removing the condom too quickly, are also prevalent.

To avoid these mistakes, always store condoms in a cool, dry place, check expiration dates, and ensure the packaging is intact before use. Choose the right size and use water-based or silicone-based lubricants to reduce friction. Put the condom on before any genital contact, ensure there is space at the tip, and avoid using oil-based lubricants. After intercourse, hold the base of the condom while withdrawing to prevent slippage.

Proper condom use is crucial for a healthy and enjoyable sex life, offering protection against STIs and unintended pregnancies. Remember, using condoms correctly not only ensures effectiveness but also provides peace of mind for both partners.

We encourage you to share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments section below. Your insights and inquiries can help others learn and improve their own practices, contributing to better sexual health and awareness.

As the world’s population keeps growing, it’s becoming more and more important to find healthy and sustainable food sources. Among the often-overlooked options is millet, a tiny but mighty grain that has been a staple food in many parts of the world for thousands of years. Even though millet is often used to feed birds in the West, it is a versatile and healthy food that should be on our plates. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of millet and how it can be incorporated into your diet in delicious and creative ways.

What is millet?

Millet is a group of small-seeded grasses that are grown and consumed as a staple food in many parts of the world, particularly in Africa and Asia. Millet is highly nutritious, gluten-free, and easy to digest, which makes it a popular choice for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

There are several types of millet, including pearl millet, foxtail millet, finger millet, and proso millet, among others. Each type of millet has its own unique taste, texture, and nutritional profile.

Millet can be used to make a wide range of dishes, such as porridge, bread, soup, and even alcoholic beverages. In addition to being a nutritious food source, millet is also used as animal feed and to make products like insulation, paper, and biofuels.

Overall, millet is a healthy grain that can be used in many different ways and is a great addition to a healthy, well-balanced diet.

Different types of millet grain and their nutritional values

1. Pearl millet

Pear Millet, also known as Bajra, is a widely grown type of millet in India, Africa, and parts of Asia. It is high in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

• Calories: 378
• Carbohydrates: 72.8g
• Protein: 11.1g
• Fat: 4.2g
• fibre: 8.5g
• Iron: 3.9mg
• Calcium: 38mg
• Magnesium: 114mg
• Phosphorus: 290mg
• Potassium: 307mg
• Zinc: 1.7mg

2. Foxtail Millet

Foxtail millet, also known as Kangni, is a type of millet that is grown in India and parts of China. It is high in protein and fiber and is a good source of minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

• Calories: 349
• Carbohydrates: 63.2g
• Protein: 12.3g
• Fat: 4.3g
• fibre: 8.0g
• Iron: 2.8mg
• Calcium: 31mg
• Magnesium: 76mg
• Phosphorus: 290mg
• Potassium: 307mg
• Zinc: 1.9mg

3. Finger Millet

Finger millet, also known as ragi, is a type of millet that is commonly grown in India and Africa. It is rich in calcium, iron, and fiber and is also gluten-free.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

• Calories: 336
• Carbohydrates: 72.9g
• Protein: 7.3g
• Fat: 1.3g
• fibre: 3.6g
• Iron: 3.9mg
• Calcium: 344mg
• Magnesium: 137mg
• Phosphorus: 284mg
• Potassium: 408mg
• Zinc: 2.7mg
  
  

4. Little Millet

Little millet, also known as kutki, is a type of millet that is grown in India and parts of Africa. It is rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

• Calories: 341
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Protein: 7.7g
• Fat: 4.2g
• fibre: 7.6g
• Iron: 9mg
• Calcium: 17mg
• Magnesium: 119mg
• Phosphorus: 220mg
• Potassium: 210mg
• Zinc: 1.7mg

5. Kodo Millet

Kodo millet, also known as Kodra, is a type of millet that is grown in India. It is rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and calcium.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

• Calories: 329
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 1.4g
• fibre: 9.3g
• Iron: 2.8mg
• Calcium: 27mg
• Magnesium: 35mg
• Phosphorus: 205mg
• Potassium: 195mg
• Zinc: 1.2mg
  

Each type of millet grain has unique nutritional benefits and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as porridges, breads, salads, and soups.

How is millet different from other grains?

Millet is unique compared to other grains in several ways.

1. Gluten-free: Millet is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
   
2. Highly digestible: Millet is easily digestible compared to other grains, which makes it a good option for people with digestive issues.
   
3. Rich in nutrients: Millet is a good source of nutrients like protein, fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, which are important for overall health and wellbeing.
   
4. Low glycemic index: Millet has a low glycemic index, which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream slowly and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
   
5. Versatile: Millet can be used in a variety of dishes, including pilafs, salads, soups, and porridge, and can be cooked as a side dish or used as a base for vegetarian or vegan meals.
   
6. Drought-resistant: Millet is a hardy crop that can grow in dry or drought-prone regions, making it an important food source in many parts of the world.

Overall, millet is a unique and nutritious grain that offers several health benefits and can be a valuable addition to a balanced and healthy diet.

Different types

There are many different types of millet foods, ranging from traditional dishes to modern recipes. Here are some examples:

1. Millet Porridge: A popular breakfast dish made by cooking millet with water or milk and often sweetened with honey, fruits, or nuts.
   
2. Millet Pilaf: A savory dish made by cooking millet with vegetables, spices, and herbs.
   
3. Millet Flatbread: A type of bread made from millet flour, water, and salt. It can be used as a wrap or served with a variety of dips and spreads.
   
4. Millet Salad: A healthy and filling salad made with cooked millet, vegetables, and a variety of dressings and toppings.
   
5. Millet Soup: A hearty and flavorful soup made with millet, vegetables, and seasonings. It can be served as a main dish or as a side dish.
   
6. Millet Biryani: A fragrant and spicy rice dish made with millet instead of rice and often cooked with vegetables, spices, and sometimes meat or chicken.
   
7. Millet Cookies: A healthy and delicious snack made with millet flour, butter, sugar, and other flavorings like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
   
8. Millet stir-fry: Cooked millet can be sautéed with vegetables, protein, and spices for a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry.
   
9. Millet burgers: Cooked millet can be mixed with vegetables, beans, and spices and formed into patties for a plant-based burger alternative.
   
10. Millet bread: Millet flour can be used to make gluten-free bread that is rich in fiber and nutrients.
    

These are just a few examples of the many types of millet foods that are available. Millet can be cooked in a variety of ways and used in many different dishes, making it a versatile and nutritious ingredient in any meal.

What health benefits does it have?

Millet is a nutritious grain that offers a range of health benefits. Here are some of the main health benefits of including millet in your diet:

1. Good source of nutrients: Millet is rich in nutrients such as protein, fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, which are important for overall health and wellbeing.
   
2. Gluten-free: Millet is naturally gluten-free, making it a good option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
   
3. May improve digestion: The high fiber content in millet may help improve digestion, prevent constipation, and promote healthy gut bacteria.
   
4. May lower cholesterol: Studies suggest that eating millet may help lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
   
5. May regulate blood sugar: Millet has a low glycemic index, which means it may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
   
6. May support weight loss: Millet is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied while consuming fewer calories, making it a great option for weight management.

Overall, millet is a nutritious and versatile grain that can offer several health benefits when included in a healthy and balanced diet.

How is millet beneficial for men?

While millet offers general health benefits to both men and women, there are some specific health benefits of millet that may be particularly relevant to men. Here are some of the key health benefits of millet for men:

1. May support prostate health
   Millet is a good source of zinc, which is important for prostate health. Research suggests that zinc may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer and improve the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
   
2. May support heart health
   Millet is low in fat and high in fiber, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Heart disease is a major cause of death in men, so incorporating millet into a heart-healthy diet may be beneficial.
   
3. May improve athletic performance
   Millet is a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide energy for physical activity. Millet is also rich in B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism.
   
4. May support bone health
   Millet is a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are important minerals for bone health. Maintaining strong bones is particularly important for men, who are at higher risk for osteoporosis as they age.
   
5. May support mental health
   Millet is a good source of magnesium, which is important for brain function and mental health. Research suggests that magnesium may help reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are more common in men than women.

Overall, millet is a healthy and versatile grain that is good for men’s health in a number of ways. Adding millet to a healthy, well-balanced diet may help support the health of your prostate, heart, athletic performance, bones, and mind.

How can millet fit into your diet?

If you’re interested in incorporating millet into your diet, you’ll be happy to know that millet is very adaptable and can fit into different diet plans without any problem. Whether you’re vegan or selective about your gluten and carb intake, millet is a perfect addition to your diet.

Here are a few examples of how millet is suitable for different diet plans:

1. Gluten-free diet
   Since millet is naturally gluten-free, it’s a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. A gluten-free diet typically includes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and gluten-free grains like millet.
   
2. Vegetarian or vegan diet
   Millet is a good source of plant-based protein and can be used as a meat alternative in vegetarian or vegan meals. A vegetarian or vegan diet typically includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts or seeds, with millet being a nutritious addition to meals.
   
3. Mediterranean diet
   The Mediterranean diet emphasises whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, with healthy fats from sources like olive oil and nuts or seeds. Millet can be included in Mediterranean-style salads, pilafs, and soups.
   
4. Low-carb diet
   While millet is not low in carbohydrates, it is a low-glycemic index food, which means it may not raise blood sugar levels as much as other high-carb foods. Millet can be included in moderation in a low-carb diet that emphasises lean proteins, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables.
   
5. Plant-based diet
   A plant-based diet focuses on whole, minimally processed foods from plant sources with minimal or no animal products. Millet can be used in a variety of plant-based meals, including salads, stir-fries, and veggie burgers.

Overall, incorporating millet into a balanced and healthy diet can offer several health benefits. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine the best diet plan for your specific needs and goals.

How is it good for the environment?

Millet is generally considered to have a lower environmental impact compared to other cereal crops, due to its resilience and low input requirements. Here are some ways in which millet impacts the environment:

Drought tolerance

Millet is a hardy crop that is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can grow in areas with low rainfall. This means that millet can be grown in places where other crops might not do well, so less water and other inputs are needed.

Low inputs

Millet is typically grown using low-input methods, such as rain-fed farming or organic farming, which can reduce the use of synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, and herbicides.

Soil health

Millet is a good crop for soil health, as it has a shallow root system and can improve soil structure and fertility. It also requires less water than other cereal crops, which can help reduce soil erosion and improve water retention.

Biodiversity

Millet is a diverse crop, with many different varieties grown around the world. This diversity can help maintain biodiversity in agricultural landscapes and support local ecosystems.

Carbon sequestration

Millet is a C4 crop, which means it has a higher photosynthetic efficiency and can sequester more carbon than other cereal crops. This can help mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Overall, millet has a lower environmental impact compared to other cereal crops and can be an important component of sustainable agriculture. However, like any crop, the environmental impact of millet depends on how it is grown and processed, and sustainable farming practices should be encouraged to minimise negative environmental impacts.

Millet and water: A grain that values water

Millet is generally considered to be a water-efficient crop compared to other cereal crops. Millet requires less water than crops like rice, wheat, or corn and can often be grown using rain-fed farming methods. Here are some ways in which millet impacts water resources:

1. Water requirements: Millet requires less water than many other cereal crops, making it a good option for regions with limited water resources. For example, pearl millet can be grown with as little as 350 mm of annual rainfall.
   
2. Drought tolerance: Millet is a drought-tolerant crop that can survive with less water than other cereal crops. This makes it a good option for regions with unreliable rainfall or water scarcity.
   
3. Rain-fed farming: Millet is often grown using rain-fed farming methods, which can reduce the need for irrigation and other inputs. This can help conserve water resources and reduce the environmental impact of farming.
   
4. Water use efficiency: Millet has a high water use efficiency, which means it can produce more biomass per unit of water than other crops. This can help reduce the amount of water needed to produce a given amount of food.
   

Overall, millet can be a good option for regions with limited water resources or where water conservation is a priority. However, like any crop, the water requirements of millet depend on several factors, including the variety of millet, the soil type, and the climate. Sustainable farming practices, such as rain-fed farming and water-efficient irrigation methods, should be encouraged to minimise the impact of millet cultivation on water resources.

Are there any downsides?

While millet is generally considered a healthy food, there are some potential downsides to be aware of:

1. Antinutrients: Millet contains antinutrients such as phytic acid and tannins, which can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients like iron, zinc, and calcium. However, soaking, sprouting, or fermenting millet can help reduce these antinutrients.
   
2. Goitrogens: Millet also contains goitrogens, which can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones in some people, particularly those with thyroid problems. However, the levels of goitrogens in millet are generally low, and cooking can further reduce their effect.
   
3. Gluten-free: Millet is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a great alternative to wheat for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, this also means that millet lacks the elasticity and structure that gluten provides in baked goods, making it more challenging to bake with.
   
4. Low in certain nutrients: While millet is a good source of many important nutrients, it is relatively low in some essential amino acids like lysine and tryptophan and some vitamins like vitamin B12. However, eating a variety of foods can help ensure that you get all the nutrients you need.
   
5. Potential for contamination: Millet can sometimes be contaminated with mycotoxins, which are toxic substances produced by fungi. To reduce the risk of contamination, it’s important to buy millet from a reputable source and store it properly.

Overall, millet is a nutritious and healthy food that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. However, it’s important to be aware of these potential downsides and take steps to mitigate them.

Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily in the testicles. Testosterone helps maintain men’s Bone density, Fat distribution, Muscle strength and mass, Facial and body hair, Red blood cell production, Sex drive, Sperm production. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers of testosterone abuse.

Dr. Raman Tanwar, MCH Urology, Senior Andrologist, and Secretary General of the Men’s Health Society of India, when asked about the problem, told BFH, “A recent trend that I have observed is that patients are being given testosterone by their doctors if they are suffering from erectile dysfunction and demand quick results. Patients are given these injections because they show low testosterone levels, but a major reason for this is that patients are not able to take testosterone level tests in the morning due to a busy schedule, so they take them in the evening, and because of this, their levels show up low on the test.”

Dangers of Testosterone Abuse: Risk of taking testosterone externally

Testosterone therapy has various risks, including: worsening sleep apnea – a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts causing acne or other skin reactions. Stimulating noncancerous growth of the prostate and growth of existing prostate cancer.

“When a person with normal testosterone levels is given an injection, luteinizing hormone signals the brain of the surplus amount of testosterone in the body as a result the luteinizing hormone (which is responsible for making the leydig cells in the testes produce testosterone) stops producing it. With prolonged exposure to external testosterone the luteinizing hormone stops producing testosterone completely and the testes shrink and patients may develop Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism ” Dr. Tanwar told BFH.

When is it safe to take testosterone

“The most important indication of taking testosterone boosting injections or medication is when a patient is suffering from Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition in which the male testes produce little to no testosterone. Even patients suffering from this condition are made aware that they will not be able to reproduce and that they are being given this testosterone for their body to function normally as testosterone is needed to help make bones stronger and maintain their sexual power.” said Dr. Tanwar,

He further said, “Patients who have already produced children or who don’t plan to as well as senior patients can be given testosterone injection, even with these conditions the patients have to go through several tests to make sure there is no risk of prostate cancer or heart problems.”

Reasons for low testosterone

Erectile dysfunction, fatigue, reduced muscle mass, Increased body fat, feeling irritable, or even depressed, changes in sleep habits, being overweight or have certain underlying health conditions, like diabetes and sleep apnea all are reasons for low testosterone.

4 ways to boost testosterone naturally

Even though taking testosterone externally is not worth the risk you need not despair because there are several ways to boost your testosterone levels naturally without putting your health at risk. By making a few changes to your day to day life, you can significantly increase your testosterone levels naturally.

1. Healthy diet, healthy life

What we eat directly affects the growth of our body. A balanced diet is the key to a healthy life. A healthy diet incorporates plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grain carbohydrates (brown rice, hulled barley and oats), appropriate amounts of healthy fats (olives, peanuts and dry fruits) and lean proteins (white-fleshed fish, tofu and beans). You should also avoid consuming simple carbohydrates like those found in chips and other such junk food as they can spike your blood sugar and decrease your testosterone levels.

2. Cardio and strength go hand in hand

These days if a person aims to exercise, going to the gym is their first choice and they directly hit the weights. Lifting weights increases muscle size and strength as well as your neurovascular control (balance and coordination) however, cardio is equally if not more important as it improves your endurance, oxygen utilisation efficiency and your respiratory functions. The combination of cardio and strength training improves the quality and efficiency of your workout and significantly increases the probability of boosting your testosterone levels.

3. Just sleep on it

Rest is the best way to energize your body for another day of hard work. Benefits of sleep are too many to count. Proper amounts of sleeping hours helps you build immunity so you get sick less often, maintain a healthy weight, lowers the risk of severe health problems (diabetes and heart diseases), reduces stress and as well as improves your mood. Majority of testosterone release happens while sleeping so insufficient sleeping hours can significantly reduce your testosterone levels.

4. No stress, no loss

There is no need to explain why stress is bad for mental as well as physical health. But did you know that stress also affects your testosterone levels? Yes, when a person is stressed the body releases a hormone called cortisol which responds to this stress and your body returns to normal. Chronic stress can lead to prolonged exposure to cortisol which can reduce the levels of free testosterone in the body. So by practicing meditation and yoga or doing activities which you love you can effectively counter stress and avoid a decrease in your testosterone levels.