How to use a condom

Condoms are the best way of preventing most STIs. However, they don’t always prevent STIs that are spread through close skin-to-skin contact. Worn on the penis during vaginal, anal or oral sex, the condom provides a barrier which catches semen and stops the transfer of bodily fluids between partners.

Condoms also help prevent unplanned pregnancies during vaginal sex.

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A condom is the only form of contraception that works to both prevent pregnancy and protect against the spread of sexually transmissible infections (STIs). The external (male) condom is a thin latex rubber or polyurethane (a type of soft plastic) covering which is rolled onto an erect (hard) penis before having sex.

There are a number of steps to putting on a condom correctly.

	Gain consent – don’t forget to ask!
	Check the expiry date – it’s usually found on the back of the condom packet.
	Carefully open the condom packet (do not use your teeth or scissors). Once open, check the condom is the correct way up.
	Pinch the tip of the condom with one hand (this removes the air and makes space for any semen/cum).
	While still pinched, place the condom on the head of the penis when it’s erect (hard). With your other hand roll the condom down to the base of penis.
	Put some water-based lube on the outside of the condom if you like (recommended during anal sex). You are now ready to have sex – check the condom doesn’t break.
	Hold the base to remove. After sex, while the penis is still hard, carefully withdraw the penis while holding the base of the condom. Remove the condom slowly so it doesn’t spill or turn inside out.
	Put the waste in the bin. Wrap the condom in a tissue and put it in the bin (not down the toilet).

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• Condoms should be put on when the penis is hard
• Condoms can only be used once. After a condom has been used it should be put in the bin
• Condoms should be kept in a cool and dry place. They can be kept in wallets, but only for short periods of time
• Never use two condoms at the same time. Using two condoms at one time can make the condoms break
• Use a water-based lubricant to help stop the condom from breaking