Learn more about condom
Condom is a flexible sheath. It prevents direct contact of mucosal membrane of one's body with the body fluid (semen, secretions before ejaculation and vaginal fluid) and blood of another person during sex. Most condoms are made of latex. A variety of sizes, shapes, colours, texture and flavours are available to cater the needs of individuals.
Condom size
Condoms come in different sizes.
If the condom is too small, you won't feel good and the condom may break. If it is too large, it may slip off during sex and cannot protect you from sexually transmitted infections or HIV.
You should find a condom that fits you most. Some condoms may only indicate either their diameters or widths.You may need to put them on and use them before you can find the most suitable one.
Steps for proper use of condom
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Use a new, good quality latex condom and check the expiry date before use.
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Put the condom on before the penis touches the vagina, mouth or anus.
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With care, hold the condom by the tip to squeeze out the air; this allows room for the semen.
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Put the condom on the end of the erect penis, unroll it all the way down to the hair.
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Use water-based lubricants; oil-based lubricants can cause the condom to break.
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After ejaculation and before the penis gets soft, grip the rim of the condom and carefully withdraw.
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Gently pull the condom off the penis, making sure that semen doesn't spill out.
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Wrap the condom in a tissue and throw it in the trash.
Condom tips
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Check the expiration date. If the expiration date has expired the condom is no longer going to work.
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Don't store condoms near heat sources because they might break.
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Don't test a condom for defect before use. You may damage the condom in doing so.
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Be prepared. Keep condoms on hand. If they are easy to get you are more likely to use them.
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Try different brands and sizes. Find one that you like and feel comfortable with.
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Make condoms a part of having sex and a regular part of sexual intercourse. Put the condom on your partner or have your partner put the condom on you --this will help keep the "mood".
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Put condoms on as soon as the penis gets hard. HIV can be present in pre-ejaculate ("pre-cum").
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If you feel the condom break or slip during intercourse, STOP IMMEDIATELY and put on a new one.
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Lubricated condoms are less likely to break than unlubricated ones. They give a moist, natural feeling to the skin and create greater sensation for most wears. Unlubricated condoms are used principally in oral sex.
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You can use a water-based lubricant. Oil-based lubricant such as oil, hand lotion, or Vaseline will cause the condom to break. Read the labels of any lubricants you may purchase to make sure it is compatible with a condom.
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Don't use a male and female condom at the same time. Don't use more than one condom at a time. Using more than one condom at a time would create friction and increase chance of breaking.
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Even when you use another form of birth control, use a condom to help protect against the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
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There is no evidence to suggest that Nonoxynol-9 (N-9) containing condoms provide any additional protection against STIs and HIV transmission. On the contrary, it may cause irritation to the skin resulting in allergic reaction. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Divisions of HIV/AIDS Prevention does not recommend the use of N-9 containing condoms.