What About Condoms?

Condoms come in lots of colors, textures, lengths, widths, and thicknesses. There are also female condom options that are inserted into the vagina. The most important thing when choosing a condom is that they are made of latex or polyurethane (plastic). Animal skin (or “natural”) condoms do not offer the same degree of protection.

• Check the label of the condom before using it and don’t use it if it is past the labeled expiration date, or if it is over five years past the manufacture date. Also check the appearance of the condom. If it’s ripped or looks dry or brittle use another one.
• If not already pre-lubricated, applying a small amount of water-based lubricant outside the condom can help prevent rips. Oil-based lubricants (for example petroleum jellies, body lotions, mineral or vegetable oils) should NOT be used with latex condoms because they can cause the latex to break down, and reduce or eliminate the condom’s effectiveness.
• Open the package, tear gently on the side (not with teeth or scissors, which could rip the condom itself).
• Pull the condom out slowly (with care) to prevent ripping.
• Place the rolled condom over the head of the penis when it is hard.
• Pinch the tip enough to leave a half-inch space for semen to collect.
• Holding the tip, unroll the condom all the way to the base of the penis. The condom should fit snugly – but not too tight – so that it won’t slide off or break during intercourse.
• If you start to put on a condom inside-out, don’t use it. Throw it away and use a new one. You’ll know it’s inside out because it won’t roll down the length of the penis easily.
• If the condom rips at any time, throw that one out and use a new one.
• Immediately after ejaculation, hold the base of the condom (so it stays in place and semen cannot spill out), and slowly withdraw the penis – while it is still hard. The condom should be wrapped in tissue and thrown away in the garbage (not in the toilet as it may clog).

Keep your condoms in a cool, dry place to prevent breakage or leakage. Don’t store condoms in a location that can get very hot, like in your car. If you keep a condom in your wallet or purse, replace it with a new one every few months. Re-check the expiration date and condition before you use it.