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Sex and Sexuality
Condoms 101
Keep condoms handy at all times and talk with your partner(s) about using a condom before having sex. It removes anxiety and confusion to know that condoms are to be used at the point of intercourse and will make all parties feel more confident and relaxed.
When should I use a condom?
You should use a condom every time you have sexual intercourse. Never use the same condom twice. Put the condom on after the penis is erect and before any contact is made between the penis and any part of the partner's body. If you go from anal intercourse to vaginal intercourse, or change partners you should change the condom.
How do you use a condom?
If you are new to condoms, the best way to learn how to use them is to practice putting them on by yourself or your partner. It does not take long to learn how to use a condom correctly and will make it easier when you are ready to use it.
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| Open package at one corner, being careful not to tear into the condom... sharp fingernails or rough handling can damage the latex. Be sure the package and condom appear to be in good condition. Check the expiration date if it has one.
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| Squeeze the tip of the condom. This is to eliminate air bubbles as you unroll it onto an erect penis. Leaving the tip empty helps reduce the chance of breakage and allows room for the ejaculation fluid (cum).
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| Unroll the condom fully, to base of penis, if possible. The proper fit is important and there are a lot of different styles and sizes available. If you are having problems with the fit see the information to the right to help find the size and shape that might suit you better.
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| After intercourse, withdraw while the penis is still erect, and hold onto the base of the condom to prevent contents from spilling.
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What do you do if a condom breaks?
If a condom breaks during sexual intercourse, then pull out quickly and replace the condom. Whilst you are having sex, check the condom from time to time, to make sure it hasn't split or slipped off. If the condom has broken and you feel that semen has come out of the condom during sex, you should consider getting emergency contraception such as the morning after pill.
What condoms should you use for anal intercourse?
With anal intercourse more strain is placed on the condom. You can use stronger condoms (which are thicker) but standard condoms are just as effective as long as they are used correctly with plenty of lubricant. Condoms with a lubricant containing Nonoxynol 9 should NOT be used for anal sex as Nonoxynol 9 damages the lining of the rectum increasing the risk of HIV and other STI transmission.
How do you dispose of a used condom?
All condoms should be disposed of by wrapping in tissue or toilet paper and throwing them in the bin. Condoms should not be flushed down the toilet as they may cause blockages in the sewage system and pollution.
How long is a condom good?
Stored properly, condoms are good 3-5 years from the date of manufacture. Heat and light deteriorate latex condoms, increasing the likelihood of breakage during use. So, for best results, do not store condoms near heat vents, light fixtures, or in direct sunlight. Other places to avoid storing condoms are the glove compartment of a car and in your wallet.
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Types and Shapes
Condoms come in a variety of shapes. Most have a reservoir tip although some do have a plain tip. Condoms may be regular shaped (with straight sides), form fit (indented below the head of the penis), or they may be flared (wider over the head of the penis).
Ribbed condoms are textured with ribs or bumps, which can increase sensation for both partners. Condoms also come in a variety of colours.
It’s up to you which shape you choose. All of the differences in shape are designed to suit different personal preferences and enhance pleasure. It is important to communicate with your partner to be sure that you are using condoms that satisfy both of you.
Some condoms are flavoured to make oral sex more enjoyable. They are also safe to use for penetrative sex as long as they have been tested and approved.
Sizes
Condoms are made in different lengths and widths, and different manufacturers produce varying sizes.
There is no standard length for condoms, though those made from natural rubber will in addition always stretch if necessary to fit the length of the man's erect penis.
The width of a condom can also vary. Some condoms have a slightly smaller width to give a "closer" fit, whereas others will be slightly larger. Condom makers have realised that different lengths and widths are needed and are increasingly broadening their range of sizes.
Brands
Brands are different in each country, so you will need to do your own investigation of different names to find the ones you like best. There is no particular best brand of condom it is a matter of opinion.
Condom-USA offers a variety of independent condom reviews as well as the major brand condoms for discreet ordering to help you find the style and type of condoms you like best.
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