Prevention

Condoms, when used correctly and consistently, can provide you with protection against most STIs and HIV. Find out more about condoms and lubricants.​

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​How to Use a Condom Correctly​


  • The condom should be on the penis before there is any exchange of body fluids. It should stay on the penis until there is no more exchange of body fluids including vaginal fluid, saliva, semen, or pre-ejaculate (clear fluid that comes from the penis before orgasm).
  • Take the condom out of the packet being careful not to tear it with fingernails.
  • Check the rolled edge of the condom is facing outwards. This way it will roll on to the penis easily.
  • Begin rolling the condom onto the erect penis. If it does not roll easily it may have been put on the penis inside out. If this happens there may be pre-ejaculate on the inside of the condom. Do not turn the condom inside out to start again as you can expose your partner to infectious fluids or sperms this way. Take the condom off and begin with a new condom.
  • Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis.
  • Apply water based lubricant on the outside of the condom and at the vaginal or anal opening before penetration.
  • After ejaculation hold the condom on at the base of the penis and remove the penis from the vagina, anus or mouth quickly. When the penis becomes soft the condom can slip off and allow exchange of body fluids.
  • Take the condom off the penis and dispose of it in the bin. Do not flush condoms down the toilet.
Lubricants

Sex without lubricant can increase friction, which puts extra strain on the condom. The use of lubricant makes it less likely that your condom will tear or slip off.​

There are different types of lubricants, mainly water-based, silicone-based and oil-based. Water-based and silicone-based lubricants are recommended to use with condoms. Do not use oil-based lubricants as they degrade latex condoms and cause them to break. 
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Keep in mind that not all lubes are compatible with all sex toys, e.g., silicone-based lube is not suitable for silicone toys as it can cause the toy to break down. 
Important Notes

Here are some important tips when handling a condom and lubricant:

  • Look after the condom - do not leave unused condoms in direct sunlight, using old condoms, leaving space or air in the condom, not using enough lubrication and be careful of tearing.
  • Use the right kind of lubricant and not oil-based lubricant for condoms.
  • Always expel any air by holding the teat of the condom between thumb and forefinger.
  • Unroll the condom all the way to the base of the penis when it is hard and before starting sex.
  • Apply lubricant over the outside of the whole condom. Re-apply during sex if necessary.
  • When pulling out, hold the condom tight to the base of the penis, to prevent leakage.
  • Never re-use a condom. Once it is used, throw it away and put on a new one if you start again.