Male Condom
What are they?
Condoms are a barrier method of contraception that can prevent unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection by containing the ejaculate (come) and preventing it from entering the vagina. They are placed over the erect penis before sex takes place. There are many types of condoms including a variety of shapes and sizes, flavoured and textured and also latex free.
How to use it
Use a new condom each time you have sex. The condom should be put on before the penis touches the genital area or penetrates the vagina
Things to check first:
- Check for British Standard Kite Mark-CE Mark as there are sub standard condoms on the market
- The expiry date on the packet
- Check that the packaging is intact, carefully take the condom out of the packet making sure not to damage it with fingernails or jewellery.
Gently squeeze the teat (closed end) between your finger and thumb to get rid of any trapped air. If the condom does not have a reservoir tip, pinch the tip enough to leave a half-inch space for semen to collect.
While pinching the teat, place the condom against the top of the penis (once the penis is erect [hard]) and before any contact is made between the penis and any part of the partner’s body), unroll it all the way to the base of the penis.
- Put lubricant on the outside, if required but remember:
- If you are using lubricants (lubes) only use water based ones such as KY Jelly or a recommended one.
- Oil based lubes such as lipstick, vaseline, baby oil or even ice cream will damage the condom.
- Sex takes place and the man comes/ejaculates.
- After ejaculation and before the penis becomes soft, hold the rim of the condom at the base of the penis and withdraw from your partner
- As the man withdraws his penis, he holds the rim of the condom to ensure that no semen spills out.
- Gently remove the condom from the penis, avoiding any spillage of semen.
- Tie the open end in a knot and wrap it in a tissue, throw it in the bin. Do not put it down the toilet!
- Do not put your penis back inside your partner without using a new condom.
- Condoms need to be stored in a cool dry place.
- Do not use more than one condom at a time as it does not offer extra protection and may cause the condom(s) to split.
Always check the condom after sex for breakages/bursts as your partner may need emergecy contraception if not using another method of contraception.
Remember drugs and alcohol can affect your judgement, so that you may forget to use a condom. They may even affect your ability to use a condom properly.
Reasons to use condoms
Condoms are the only contraceptive that help prevent both pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections (including HIV) when used consistently and correctly.
Condoms do not have medical side-effects like some hormonal contraception may have. Latex free condoms are available for people who have a latex allergy.
Condoms are available in wide range of shapes, colours, flavours, textures and sizes to suit most people.
Condoms are widely available from a variety of places and are free from contraception & sexual health services, youth drop-ins and your GP.
Condoms are only needed when you are having sex unlike some other contraceptives which require you to take or have them all of the time.