Condom Use

What is a condom?

A condom is a thin pouch that helps prevent pregnancy if used properly. It may help if you and your partner choose to plan how many children you want, and when to have them. It also helps prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STD), such as HIV infection and herpes. It prevents a man's sperm from reaching and touching a woman's cervix. Preventing this may help stop infection from spreading between sexual partners. A condom needs to be placed on an erect penis before you have sexual intercourse (sex). It is left in place during sex until the penis is removed from the vagina after an ejaculation.

How do I choose a condom?

Choose a condom that is right for you. It may come in many shapes, colors, and sizes. You may choose from one made of latex (rubber), plastic, or lambskin. Latex condoms are commonly used worldwide. Lambskin (also called sheepskin or natural membrane) is made from a lamb's intestine. It may prevent pregnancy but not the spread of germs or infection. A condom may be lubricated with a silicone lubricant or a wet water-based lubricant. You may talk with your partner regarding the type of condom that may be best for you.

How do I use a condom?

• Put a drop or two of water-based lubricant or saliva inside the condom. Do not unroll the condom.
  
  
• Place the rolled condom over the tip of your erect penis.
  
  
• Leave a half-inch space at the tip to collect semen. If you are not circumcised, pull back your foreskin before rolling on the condom.
  
  
• Pinch the air out of the tip with one hand.
  
  
• Unroll the condom over your penis with the other hand.
  
  
• Roll it all the way down to the base of your penis.
  
  
• Smooth out any air bubbles and lubricate the outside of the condom.

How do I remove a used condom?

• Do not spill the semen. Hold the condom against the base of your penis while you pull it out.
  
  
• Pull out your penis before it softens.
  
  
• Throw away your used condom properly.
  
  
• Wash your penis with soap and water before having any further contact with your partner.

What may be the risks of condom use?

Using a condom may disrupt sexual activity when you put it on the already erect penis. Some men may complain of decreased sensation or loss of erection. You may have an allergy or irritation from the latex after using a condom. The use of lubricants may increase the risk of urinary tract infections for your sexual partner. A condom may break, leak, or slip, and may cause problems if not used properly.

What can I do to prevent condom breaks, leaks or slips?

Common reasons for condom breaks or leaks include rough handling or use of oil-based lubricants. Poor storage or usage after the expiration date may also cause a condom break. Too much lubricant inside the condom will increase the risk of slipping. To prevent condom breaks, leaks, or slips, do the following:

• Check the date of expiration before using your condom.
  
  
• Find the closed end (teat) of the condom. Squeeze the teat using your forefinger and thumb to remove any air. Trapped air may cause condoms to burst and break.
  
  
• If the condom does not reach the base of your penis, remove it. The condom may be inside out and needs to be replaced with a new one.
  
  
• If your condom rolls up during sex, roll the condom back down.
  
  
• If your condom slips off during sex, it should be replaced with a new one immediately.
  
  
• Use just enough lubricant when using the condom during sex. If it is used for anal (rectal) sex, use more lubricant to help stop the condom from breaking.
  
  
• When removing the condom from the packet, take care not to damage it.

What do I do if my condom breaks, leaks, or slips?

If your condom breaks, leaks, or slips, emergency contraception can be used by your female partner. This can decrease the risk of a possible pregnancy. This may be taken as soon as possible after a condom accident. Tests for STD may be done if there is any concern about infection. Ask your caregiver for more information about emergency contraception.

What other things should I keep in mind?

• Keep a condom with you at all times and check your supply often. It is best to store them in a cool, dry place. Do not keep them in wallets or a pant pocket for a long period of time. This will prevent damage from heat.
  
  
• Latex condoms are better at stopping infections than condoms made from lambskin.
  
  
• Throw away your used condom in a trash bin. Do not flush it down the toilet as it does not dissolve in water.
  
  
• Use a new condom every time you have sex (oral, vaginal, and anal). It is for one time use, and not washable or reusable.
  
  
• Use a condom with other forms of barrier methods, such as a sponge, cervical cap, or spermicides. These may provide better protection for you and your sexual partner. Ask your caregivers for information about other barrier methods of contraception.
  
  
• Use the proper type of lubricant for the type of condom you are using. Water-based lubricants work well with latex condoms. Avoid using petroleum jelly, cooking oil, mineral oil, lotion or saliva. These may damage and weaken your condom.
  
  
• You and your sexual partner should wash your hands and genitals thoroughly after sexual contact.

Where can I find more information?

Contact any of the following:

• Family Health International
  PO Box 13950
  Research Triangle Park , NC 27709
  Phone: 1- 919 - 544-7040
  Web Address: http://www.fhi.org
  

• Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  1600 Clifton Rd.
  Atlanta , GA 30333
  Phone: 1- 800 - 232-4636
  Web Address: http://www.cdc.gov/std
  

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.