Tips for using condoms

How to choose your condoms

• Thick or thin?

  With penetration more strain is placed on the condoms. You can use stronger condoms (which are thicker) but standard condoms are just as effective as long as they are used correctly with plenty of lubricant.

• Big or small?

  If the condoms are too small for you, you may feel uncomfortable and it can break more easily. If the condoms are too big, they could slip off. Therefore you need to use condoms that are right for you. Condom size is normally presented as the width of the condom at the base or ring when it is laid flat, which is half the circumference (girth).

  • If you need smaller condoms, look for those called "slim" or " fit"
  • If you need wider or longer condoms, look for those called "XL" or "Magnum"
• Latex or non-latex?

  Most condoms are made using latex and some men are allergic to them. If this happens, you can purchase condoms made from polyurethane instead of latex.

Before getting them on

• Store condoms out of direct sunlight and away from heat.
• Check the expiry date before use.
• Use condoms for oral and anal sex, and on shared sex toys.
• Choose condoms that suit your taste. Condoms come in various sizes, shapes, textures, tastes, and colors. For anal sex, use extra-strength condoms. For oral sex, try flavored condoms.
• Lubricated condoms are less likely to break than un-lubricated ones. Use water-based lubricants instead of the oil-based ones since the latter such as oil, hand lotion, or vaseline will cause the condom to break.
• There is no evidence to suggest that condoms containing nonoxynol-9 (N-9) provide additional protection against STI and HIV transmission. On the contrary, it may cause irritation to the skin resulting in allergic reaction.

Getting them on

• Do not use more than one condom at a time.
• Be careful not to rip the condom and avoid using your teeth to open a packet.
• Avoid scratching the condom with your nails when handling it.
• Hold the tip of condom to squeeze out the air, leaving some room for the semen.
• Wear the condom only when the cock has turned hard.
• Roll the condom down the full length of the cock to the base, without stretching it.
• Although most condoms are already lubricated, it's usually not enough for anal sex. More lube means more slippery fun.
• If the condom breaks, stop and slip a new one on.

After fun

• Hold on to the condom at the base of the cock while pulling out after ejaculation and before the penis softens.
• Never reuse condoms, use a new condom for every new partner.