Download CONDOM BASICS

CONDOM BASICS
Condoms can be bought without a doctor’s prescription at any drug store or family planning clinic.
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Always use condoms for vaginal, oral or anal sex.
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Always place the condom on an erect penis before the penis comes into contact with the vulvar
area.
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Use water-based lubricants such as birth control foams, creams, or jellies: “Probe”, “Astroglide” or
“K-Y Jelly” are brand names of some water based lubricants. Saliva is a good lubricant, but it dries
quickly. Never use oil-based lubricants, such as vaseline, lard, Crisco, mineral oil, cold cream or
lotion, as they will cause latex to breakdown.
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Proper storage: Don’t store condoms near excessive heat, like radiators, hot air ducts, strong
direct sunlight, in a glove compartment, or a wallet. Heat will break down latex. If the package
seems worn, wrinkled or faded, throw it away.
How to USE a Condom:
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Open the package carefully. Rough and long or jagged fingernails can damage the condom.
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Lubricate: A generous dab of a water based lubricant in the tip of the condom can greatly increase
sensation without slippage.
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Gently press the air out of the condom tip. Air bubbles can cause condoms to break. Plain end
condoms need a half-inch free in the end to collect sperm and decrease breakage.
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Unroll the condom so it covers the entire erect penis before genital contact or penetration. If
uncircumcised, pull back the foreskin before rolling on the condom. Smooth to eliminate any air
bubbles.
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Extra water-based lubrication can be applied on the outside of the condom before entry. If the
condom is dry, it could tear or pull off. If the condom begins to slip, fingers held around the base will
help it stay put.
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After ejaculation, hold the base of the condom to avoid spillage. Withdraw gently, and shortly after
ejaculation.
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If the condom tears or comes off in the vagina, insert contraceptive foam or jelly immediately.
Emergency contraception pills should always be considered.
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Throw the used condom away.
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NEVER USE A CONDOM TWICE. Wash your hands.
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When used consistently and correctly, male latex condoms are effective in preventing the sexual
transmission of HIV infection and can reduce the risk for other STIs (i.e., gonorrhea, chlamydia, and
trichomonas). However, because condoms do not cover all exposed areas, they are likely to be
more effective in preventing infections transmitted by fluids from mucosal surfaces (e.g., gonorrhea,
chlamydia, trichomoniases, and HIV) than in preventing those transmitted by skin-to-skin contact
(e.g., herpes simplex virus [HSV], HPV, syphilis and chancroid).
DHHS/NRH 22 4/09