Safer Sex
When used consistently and correctly, male condoms can be up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy and protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV (Planned Parenthood, 2004). To ensure the best chances of success, however, a condom has to be put on and removed properly. In fact, almost all condom failure is due to human error, not manufacturing error. Here are the basic steps for correct use of a male condom:
Putting it on:
1. Check the expiration date and condition of the wrapper. If the condom is expired or the wrapper is damaged, get another one!
2. Carefully open the wrapper with your hands. Opening the wrapper with a sharp object might damage the condom. No teeth!
3. Make sure the rolled-up ring is on the outside. The condom should look like a sombrero, not a beanie.
4. Pinch an inch. Squeeze the tip of the condom, leaving space for semen to collect and eliminating any trapped air pockets.
5. While squeezing the tip, place the condom on the tip of the penis and roll it all the way down to the base of the shaft. If you are uncircumcised, roll back the foreskin before rolling the condom on.
Taking it off:
1. Don’t let it slip. After ejaculation, while the penis is still erect, hold the condom at the base of the penis as you withdraw from your partner, making sure it doesn’t slip off.
2. Move away from your partner, just in case anything spills or splashes.
3. Holding the tip in one hand and the base in the other, take off the condom.
4. Knot the end so nothing spills out.
5. Dispose of the condom in the trash rather than flushing it down the toilet.
Remember:
1. For increased sensitivity, put a drop or two of lubricant in the condom tip before you roll it on.
2. Have extra condoms available in case the first one is damaged.
3. Use a new condom for every new sexual act.
4. Have lubrication available. Lube reduces friction and helps prevent the condom from tearing. For latex condoms, use only water-based lube (e.g., ID, Wet, KY, Astroglide), NOT oil-based lube (Vaseline, body lotion, massage oil). For plastic condoms, any type of lube can be used.
5. If you’re allergic to latex, try a plastic (polyurethane) condom such as Durex Avanti or Trojan Supra.