The condom is a latex, plastic, or natural membrane barrier that fits over the man's penis. It prevents sperm (semen or "cum") from entering the vagina and reaching a woman's egg.
Getting Started with Condoms
Condoms are very effective when they are used correctly, and every time you have sex. To get the most positive, worry-free start with condoms, take some time now to learn how to use them correctly.
How to Put On a Condom
- Pinch the tip of the rolled up condom. This squeezes out the air and leaves room for the semen ("cum").
- Place the condom over the head of the man's erect penis or "hard on".
- Keep holding the tip with one hand, and use the other hand to unroll the condom all the way to the base of the penis, where the pubic hair starts.
How to Take Off a Condom
- After ejaculation ("cumming"), hold onto the base of the condom and pull out of the vagina while the penis is still hard.
- Take off the condom away from the vagina. Slowly roll it towards the tip of the penis, and pull condom off.
- Throw the condom in the trash, not the toilet.
TIP: Try putting some water-based lubricant on the outside of the condom. This helps prevent it from breaking during intercourse, and also increases pleasure for both partners.
Common Side Effects
Most people can safely use condoms with no side effects. A small amount of people have allergies to:
- the rubber used in latex condoms
- the spermicides or lubricants used with some brands of condoms
If you feel burning or itching after using a condom, try using condoms without spermicide or lubricants, or try switching brands. If the problem continues, contact your health provider or clinic.
TIP: If you find out that you are allergic to latex, you can try using a plastic condom instead. Because plastic condoms are not as effective as latex condoms, they are mainly recommended for people who can't use latex condoms.
The latex condom offers better protection against sexually transmitted infections than any other
Condom Do's and Don'ts
- Do store condoms in a cool, dry place
- Do check the expiration date on the condom package
- Do open a condom package gently
- Do use plenty of water-based lubricants
- Don't leave your condoms in the sun -- sun light breaks down latex
- Don't leave your condoms in a wallet or glove compartment -- heat breaks down latex, too
- Don't use a condom that has expired, or is brittle or sticky
- Don't open the condom package with your teeth
- Don't use oil-based lubricants like baby oil, massage oil, lotion or Vaseline - oil breaks down latex
Benefits of Condoms
When used every time and correctly, condoms are a good option for some people. Here are some reasons why both women and men today choose the condom:
- Protects against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STDs)
- Very few side effects
- Low-cost and easy to get
- Does not require a prescription
- Can be used as a back up when starting a new hormonal method (like the Pill or Depo)
- Can help a man stay hard (erect) longer, and come less quickly
The latex condom offers better protection against sexually transmitted infections than any other birth control method.
Some Disadvantages: What You Should Know
While the condom continues to be a popular choice for many men and women, it isn't the best fit for everyone. The list below will help you to understand why condoms may not be the best choice for some people:
- You need to have condoms close at hand to use them, and you have to remember to use them.
- You need to use a new condom each time you have sex.
- Some couples worry that condoms "break the mood" during sex.
- Some men worry about staying "hard" enough (erect) to use a condom.
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