Condoms are the most common form of protection. They come in various styles, colours, flavours and sizes, but all are made from one of the following:
- Latex - a type of rubber made from sap.
- Polyurethane - a type of plastic (an option for latex sensitive people).
- Lambskin or sheepskin - sheep intestine.
Lambskin or sheepskin condoms will only protect against unplanned pregnancy, whereas latex and polyurethane condoms, if used properly, will protect against unplanned pregnancy and STDs, including HIV. (Note: it is still better to use a lambskin condom than to use nothing at all). There are, however, no guarantees and below are some examples when a condom may leave you unprotected.
- The condom may be punctured when opening the package, especially if the teeth or fingernails are used.
- The condom may slip off if it is put on incorrectly - the reservoir tip is not pinched and air bubbles are left under the condom or the condom is not rolled down to the base of the penis.
- The condom may break if there is not enough lubrication.
- The condom may break or slip off if it is being re-used. (Note: condoms are not designed to be re-used).
- The condom may break or slip off if it is being used over a long period of time or for highly intense sexual activity.
- The condom may break or slip off if it doesn't fit properly and is either too tight or too loose.
- The condom may break if it has been exposed to extreme heat or cold or is past the expiry date.
How do you use a Condom?
A new condom should be used every time a couple has vaginal or anal sex. The condom should be put on the erect penis before the penis comes into contact with the partner's genital or anal area.
- Take the condom out of the packet being careful not to tear it.
- Place the condom on the tip of the penis when it is hard and erect, before it touches the partner's genitals. Make sure that the rolled-up condom rim faces outwards.
- With the other hand, pinch the tip of the condom to remove any trapped air. Unroll the condom to cover the penis.
- After intercourse, withdraw the penis carefully before it becomes soft. Hold the rim of the condom against the penis to make sure that semen does not spill out.
- Slide the condom off the penis, tie the open end in a knot and throw it away.
In this section:
How Can I Reduce My Risks?
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