Proper Condom Use

Using a Condom the Right Way

The primary reason that condoms fail to prevent HIV/STD infection or pregnancy is incorrect or inconsistent use, not failure of the condom itself. Consistent use means using a condom with each act of anal, vaginal, or oral sex. Correct condom use includes all of the following steps:

• Use a new condom for each act of vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
• Use the condom throughout sex- from start to finish.
• Put on the condom as soon as erection occurs and before any vaginal, anal, or oral contact with the penis.
• Hold the tip of the condom and unroll it onto the erect penis, leaving space at the tip of the condom, yet ensuring that no air is trapped in the condom' s tip.
• Adequate lubrication is important to prevent condom breakage, but use only water-based lubricants, such as glycerine or lubricating jellies available at any pharmacy. NEVER use oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly, cold cream, hand lotion, or baby oil, which can weaken the condom.
• Withdraw from the partner immediately after ejaculation, holding the condom firmly to the base of the penis to keep it from slipping off.
• Condom users should make sure that the condom expiration date has not passed or the manufacturing date does not indicate the condom is too old (if the package is not opened, condoms are good up to 5 years after the manufacture date).

Condoms Users Have Plenty of Options

There are several types of condoms. Nearly all types offer protection against HIV and other STDs.