All About Condoms
Pay close attention here: Use a condom every single time you have sex.
Condoms (including female condoms, often known as ‘Femidoms’), when used properly, can substantially reduce the risk of infection from STIs (including HIV) and unwanted pregnancies.
Condoms come in a wide variety of colours, textures and even flavours, but just having any old condom won’t ensure that you’re protected.
Firstly, make sure it’s made of latex or polyurethane, and that the expiration date on the wrapper hasn’t passed. Then, after opening the pack carefully (to avoid tearing), check the condom itself carefully to make sure it’s not dry, brittle, stiff or unusually sticky.
Don’t take any chances, if in any doubt chuck it and use a fresh one.
To make sure a condom doesn't tear or come off, use plenty of water-based lubricant, especially for anal sex. Be sure NOT to use an oil-based lubricant like Vaseline or other petroleum jellies, body lotions or oils - they can cause the latex to break down and tear very quickly.
The correct use of a condom every single time you have sex can substantially reduce the risk of HIV infection. But that doesn't mean any old condom is going to protect you.
Here's what you need to know to make sure that the condom you're using is up to the job:
* Make sure it's made of latex or polyurethane
* Latex and polyurethane condoms are the only ones that protect against HIV infection
* Fresh condoms are good condoms
* Check the expiration date on the wrapper; if it's past the date, throw the condom away. Also, take a moment to look at the condom itself - does it seem dry, brittle, stiff or unusually sticky? Don't take chances, use a different one
* Keep it safe -store it properly
* Store your condoms in a cool, dry place so they don't get damaged. Heat and excessive wear can cause a condom to tear during sex
* Lube up!
* To make sure a condom doesn't tear or come off, use plenty of water-based lubricant on the condom, especially for anal sex. Be sure NOT to use an oil-based lubricant like Vaseline or other petroleum jellies, body lotions, mineral or vegetable oils - they can cause the latex to break down and tear very quickly
* Wear it well!
* Make sure the condom is on correctly before getting started. To find out more, check out the Staying Alive guide to How to Use a Condom
