What is a condom? When should I use a condom?
A condom is a thin piece of synthetic material that fits Use a condom:
over the penis (external or male condom) or inside the
*
vagina or anus (internal or female condom) during sex. during vaginal, anal and
oral sex
When used correctly, condoms prevent HIV and
other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as
preventing pregnancy.
Condoms
every time you have sex
Condoms are usually made of latex but some people
are allergic to latex. Polyurethane or polyisoprene
& HIV
condoms are also available. on shared sex toys; put
a new condom on for
each partner
How do condoms work? Remember to:
Sexual fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids and blood use a new condom each time
Condoms are the best way to prevent can transmit HIV and other STIs. Using a condom you have sex
HIV infection and other STIs. stops these fluids entering the other person’s body
Find out how to use them correctly and during sex. The main entry points for HIV are the: always use extra water-based
how to have great sex with them. lubricant during anal sex.
vagina
Some STIs are transmitted by
skin-to-skin contact – condoms
* anus
can’t protect you from these.
penis (urethra)
mouth Know your rights
(only if someone has large open sores
Follow us @avertaids or bleeding gums). You have the right to:
Help us empower people through knowledge insist on using a condom
by donating to www.avert.org/donate Remember to put on a condom
before you start any penetrative refuse sex if your partner
Last review: May 2018
Next review: May 2021
sexual activities. doesn’t agree to use a condom.
Sources:
www.avert.org/fact-sheet-sources
Condom types What do you do if the What is lubricant and when
Internal condom External condom
condom splits? should I use it?
If this happens during sex: Lubricant (or lube) is a water-, silicone- or oil-based
substance. Many condoms are covered in some
withdraw the penis immediately and lubricant.
use a new condom Use extra lubricant:
It’s also called the It’s also called the male
on the outside of external condoms and inside
female condom and it’s condom and is usually access emergency contraception if not of internal condoms
made of polyurethane. made of latex and it’s using other contraceptive methods
It’s wider than the the most common type; to make using a condom more comfortable
external condom with it fits over the penis. and fun
a flexible ring at either both partners should get tested for
to reduce the risk of a condom breaking,
end; it fits inside the HIV and other STIs
especially during anal sex
vagina or anus.
inside and around the vagina or anus.
You can also protect yourself during oral sex by access emergency HIV treatment if
using a dental dam which is a small sheet of latex. you think you’ve been put at risk of Stimulating (e.g. warming or tingly)
Or, try a flavoured condom cut open! HIV infection. and flavoured lubricants are available
in some places.
External (male) condom shapes and sizes: To reduce the risk of a condom
Never use oil-based lubricants
splitting:
(e.g. massage oils or Vaseline)
standard condoms have straight sides
don’t use two at the same time! with latex condoms as the oil can
fitted condoms are indented below Using an external condom at the same break down the latex.
the head of the penis time as an internal condom can cause
friction and the condoms will be more
some condoms are wider over the
likely to split.
head of the penis
don’t double up on the same types either. Why talk about condoms?
extra strong condoms are thicker – Talking about condoms isn’t saying
important for anal sex. If you need any more information you can get you don’t trust your partner.
advice from a sexual health professional. It’s about being in control of your
health – and will make you more
Internal (female) condoms come in
relaxed and able to just enjoy sex.
different shapes, sizes and flavours.
If your partner refuses to use a condom, don’t feel
pressured into having unprotected sex.
How to put on the external (male) condom
For condoms to be effective you need to use
them correctly. It can help to make them a
natural part of foreplay – a little creativity and
a positive attitude are all it takes!
You might like to practice putting them on –
you’ll then be able to use them correctly when
it really matters.
Always put the condom on before the penis
touches a woman or man’s genitals or mouth.
You’ll find full instructions on the condom
packet, but here are the basics: 4. Place the condom on the top of the erect 6. You’re ready to go!
penis and pinch the teat at the end of the
condom. This squeezes out any air bubbles
and ensures there’s space for the semen
(cum).
7. After sex, withdraw the penis before it
gets soft. To do this, hold the condom on
exp 10/19
at the base and gently take it off, wrap it
in tissue and throw it in the bin (not down
1. Check the expiry date; don’t use the the toilet).
condom if the date has passed.
8. Even if the man hasn’t ejaculated (cum)
2. Make sure the packet is in good condition there can still be semen on his penis
and has a certification mark on it 5. Roll the condom down to the base of the (pre-cum). So remove the condom carefully
(FDA, CE, ISO or Kitemark). penis; if it’s on correctly this will be easy. and throw it away.
If you’ve started putting it on the wrong
3. Open it carefully – don’t use scissors way or you’re not sure then take it off 9. Don’t try to reuse condoms. Use a new one
or sharp objects to open. If you rip the and try again. each time you have sex.
condom, don’t use it.
How to use an internal (female) condom
Internal condoms are an alternative to external
condoms. Instead of going on the penis, they go
inside the vagina.
Some people prefer to use an internal condom
as it means not having to rely on their partner to
wear a condom. If you’ve never used an internal
condom it’s good to try one out! They are easy
to use with a bit of practice.
3. Sit, squat, lie or stand in a position you 6. Make sure the penis inserts into the
find comfortable, as if you’re going to condom – it can be helpful to guide your
insert a tampon. partner into you.
exp 10/19
1. Check the expiry date on the packet,
that it’s in good condition and that is has
a certification mark on it (FDA, CE, ISO,
Kitemark).
2. Open it carefully – if you rip it, don’t use it.
4. Squeeze the smaller ring at the closed end 7. After sex, twist the large ring to prevent
and insert it into your vagina as far as it will semen from leaking out and gently pull
go. Make sure it doesn’t twist. The large the condom out and throw away.
ring at the open end covers the area around
the vaginal opening outside your body. 8. Because the internal condom doesn’t rely
on an erection to stay in place you can
5. You’re ready to go! take your time after ejaculation!
9. You can insert an internal condom ahead
of time (up to 8 hours) – so you can be
prepared and enjoy the moment.
