male condom

What are condoms?

Condoms are a barrier method of contraception that can prevent unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections by “catching” the ejaculate (cum) and preventing it from entering the female. A condom is placed over the erect penis before intercourse. There are many types of condoms including flavoured, ribbed, dotted, trim, large, non latex and strong. There is a condom to fit most men and variations of condoms for vaginal, oral and anal sex. Condoms should also be used to cover sex toys to prevent passing on sexually transmitted infections

How to use a condom

Condom demo from NHS Highland on Youtube

• Use a new condom each time there is penetration and a condom should be put on before the penis touches the vagina / mouth / anus
• Check for British Standard Kite Mark-CE Mark  as there are sub standard condoms on the market
   
• Check the expiry date on the packet
• Carefully take the condom out of the packet making sure not to damage it with fingernails or jewellery.
• Gently squeeze the teat (closed end) between your finger and thumb to get rid of any trapped air. If the condom does not have a reservoir tip, pinch the tip enough to leave a half-inch space for semen to collect. Wash your hands before doing this as there may be oil on your fingers. E.g. after eating chips or using massage oil etc.
• While pinching the teat, place the condom against the penis (once the penis is erect [hard] and before any contact is made between the penis and any part of the partner’s body) and unroll it all the way to the base.
• If you are using lubricant (lube) only use water based ones such as KY Jelly or a recommended one.
• Pinch out any air left in the end.
• Intercourse takes place and the man comes/ejaculates.
• After ejaculation and before the penis gets soft, grip the rim of the condom and withdraw from your partner
• As the man withdraws his penis, he holds the rim of the condom so that no semen spills out.
• To remove the condom from the penis, pull it gently off, being careful semen doesn’t spill out.
• Tie the end in a knot and wrap it in a tissue, throw it in the bin. Do not put it down the toilet!
• Do not put your penis back into your partner without using a new condom.
• Condoms need to be stored in a cool dry place so its not a good idea to store in your wallet or car glove compartment for months on end.
• Do not use more than 1 condom at a time.
• Finally, beware of drugs and alcohol! They can affect your judgement, so that you may forget to use a condom. They may even affect your ability to use a condom properly.
• NB: If you feel a condom break while you are having sex, stop immediately and pull out. Do not continue until you have put on a new condom.

What to do if a condom bursts

It may be advisable to seek emergency contraception

Reasons to use condoms

1. Condoms are the only contraceptive that help prevent both pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections (including HIV) when used properly and consistently.
2. Condoms can be up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy but only if they are used properly and consistently. The failure rate with typical use tends to be significantly higher than this.
3. Condoms have none of the medical side-effects that some other contraceptive methods may have.
4. Condoms are available in various shapes, colours, flavours, textures and sizes to suit most people and  to increase the fun of making love with condoms.
5. Condoms are free and  widely available across Dumfries and Galloway – free from Sexual Health clinics. You don't need a prescription or have to visit a doctor.
6. Condoms make sex less messy.
7. Condoms are user friendly. With a little practice, they can also add confidence to the enjoyment of sex.
8. Condoms are only needed when you are having sex unlike some other contraceptives which require you to take or have them all of the time.

Where to get condoms

Free condoms and lubricant by post is a project available only for those living in Dumfries & Galloway who may find it difficult to access free condoms and lubricant.

Confidence tips

• Keep condoms handy at all times. If things start getting steamy, you'll be ready. It's not a good idea to find yourself having to rush out at the crucial moment to buy condoms - at the height of the passion you may not want to.
• Don’t be embarrassed asking for condoms. If anything, be proud as it  shows that you are responsible and confident and when the time comes it will all be worthwhile. 
• Talk with your partner about using a condom before having sex. It removes anxiety and embarrassment. Knowing where you both stand before the passion starts will make you a lot more confident that you both agree and are happy about using a condom.
• The best way to learn how to use them if you are new to condoms, is to practice putting them on yourself at home. It does not take long to become a master. ‘Practice makes perfect.’
• Try introducing condoms into your lovemaking if you feel that condoms interrupt your passion. It can be really sexy if your partner helps you put it on or you do it together.

Negotiating skills

It can be difficult  and embarrassing to talk about using condoms but you shouldn't let  this become a health risk. The person you are thinking about having sex with may not agree at first when you say that you want to use a condom when you have sex. These are some examples of excuses you may hear and some of the answers you may give