HOW to Use a Condom

Condoms are easier to use with practice, so don't be shy have a try when you are on your own.

• Open the individual packet carefully tear (NOT with your teeth) the foil along one short side and the condom will slip out.


• Put the condom on BEFORE there is ANY CONTACT between the vaginal or anal area. A good idea is to have opened the packet just before you start making love and leave it within easy reach so that you don't need to fumble with the packaging at the crucial moment.


• Place the rolled condom on the end of the erect penis, making sure it's the right way up, and squeeze the "nipple" end to expel any air trapped inside. Use your other hand to gently unroll the condom down the whole penis.
  After intercourse, the penis should be withdrawn before it goes soft, holding the condom firmly at the base to prevent any fluid leaking


• Tie a knot in the end of the condom, wrap it in tissue and put it in a dustbin, not down the toilet.


• Use a condom after each withdrawal which is why a supply of them is important.

Only use a condom with a British Kite mark or the new European CE mark which is a safety standard. There is a higher risk of breaking with condoms that have not reached the safety standard. Some novelty condoms such as "glow in the dark" ones are not suitable for sexual intercourse. Others are only advisable for oral sex e.g. "minty" which will cause vaginal abrasions if used for intercourse.

If you don't get on with one type of condom - try another - there are condoms for those who are allergic to the spermicide such as "Durex allergy" or "Jiffy Silhouette" Durex gold for example might suit a man who finds others too tight. Femidom is the name of the condom for women.

Condoms DO NOT provide 100% protection against PREGNANCY. They offer 85% - 98% against pregnancy depending on how they are used. Do seek medical advice about other forms of contraception and unless you know your partner's HIV status ALWAYS use a condom as well as other methods of contraception.