Condoms should be worn when having vaginal or anal intercourse, and for oral sex. If you use a condom every time you have sex you lessen the chances of getting a STD or falling pregnant. Condoms can be used as a way to practice 'safer sex', which is when there is no no exchange of blood, semen or vaginal fluids.
A condom is a piece of latex or rubber which fits over the penis. It catches semen when a man ejaculates (comes) and prevents the semen entering their partner. Condoms are packaged in foil or aluminium and are rolled up. When opening the pack be very careful not to tear the condom.
Always put the condom on before any penetration occurs - the penis may leak semen (sperm) before a man actually comes. This pre-cum fluid can carry STD's and enough sperm to cause pregnancy. Always use lubricant with a condom. Some condoms are already lubricated however extra water based lubricant should be used.
Place the condom over the tip of the hard penis leaving about 1cm at the top to collect the semen. Squeeze the air out of the tip of the condom to release the air. Roll the condom down the shaft of the penis. Be sure that your fingernails or jewellery do not damage or rip the condom. Smooth out any air bubbles. Lubricate the outside of the condom.
To take the condom off, hold the condom to the base of the penis while pulling out. Pull out before the penis softens. Tie a knot at the open end of the condom and throw it away. Do not flush down the toilet.
Getting them..
Condoms are available from chemists, supermarkets and some corner stores. Condoms are available for free from community health centres. Condom vending machines are located at in a number of places in most towns.
There are many different brands and varieties on condoms available. Generally you should pick a condom which is lubricated (although you should use extra lube anyway). Different brands are different sizes, generally the size is not marked so try a few to find a type which you are comfortable using. Always check the expiry date on the packet. Do not use condoms which have expired.
Some condoms, such as edible ones, are for novelty use only. These will not stop the transmission of STD's or prevent pregnancy. Do not use novelty condoms as a form of safe sex.
Storing them..
Always store condoms in a cool dry place. Do not store condoms in your wallet, back pocket or glove box for extended periods of time. Heat can damage the condom and increase the risk of it breaking during sex
Condoms are our only protection against nearly all sexually transmissible diseases including HIV and unwanted pregnancy if we are sexually active. Condoms are a think rubber tube which fits over the penis during intercourse. By ejaculating into the condom no bodily fluids are shared between sexual partners. Most condoms are made of latex.
When condoms are used properly, they are about 95% effective in the prevention of pregnancy. They are also an excellent protection from the spread of sexually transmissible diseases, although the exact rates of success are unknown.
When using a condom, the first thing we need to do is check the expiry date. Never use a condom that has been stored in a hot confined place for a long period of time, like a wallet or car glove box.
Condoms come in different sizes and brands, so experiment to ensure that you get a brand that is right for you.
Making the condom part of your sexual ritual and keeping them handy will ensure that safety is always part of your sex life.
Condoms should never be used more than once. Using lubrication will significantly reduce the risk of breakage. Latex condoms are, however, weakened by oil based lubricants such as Vaseline, oils and medications. Ensure that all lubricants used are water based.
Unlubricated condoms are best for oral sex.