AEGiS-Bangkok Post: Getting The Most Out Of A Condom: If you didn't know already, here's how to use one properly

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2009. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Getting The Most Out Of A Condom: If you didn't know already, here's how to use one properly

Bangkok Post - August 27, 2009
Dr. Dittakarn Boriboonhirunsarn

The major advantage of condoms over other birth control methods is they can prevent sexually-transmitted disease, especially HIV/Aids. But they are only effective when used correctly and consistently.

Most men think using a condom is easy: just put it on, have sex and throw it away. But, in fact, there are important details that can be overlooked. And that can compromise the effectiveness of the use of condoms for prevention of both pregnancy and serious infections.

USE IT CORRECTLY

Sometimes, there are no instructions included when you buy condoms. The following are some details that you may want to take seriously.

1. Check the expiration date on the wrapper. Some people store their condoms for a long time due to infrequent sexual activity (and some people have never had the chance to use one before).

So, make sure it hasn't been stored in a too warm a temperature or near sharp objects that could weaken or puncture the condom.

2. Open the wrapper carefully. Squeeze the condom to the opposite side before tearing the wrapper, and do not use sharp objects to open the wrapper in order to avoid puncturing the condom. This includes fingernails and teeth.

3. Remove the condom and pinch the tip between your fingers to prevent any air from getting in the tip, which can cause the condom to break. Hold it at the tip of the penis and begin unrolling it down the shaft. Make sure the rolled-up part of the condom is on the outside, otherwise the condom is inside out.And put the condom on when the penis is fully erect only.

4. If, during the sexual act, the condom rolls back up towards the head of the penis, roll it back down immediately. If it slips off completely, do not put it back on. Instead, put on a new condom.

5. After ejaculation, prevent the condom from slipping off by holding the base of the condom while withdrawing. Then wrap it with tissue and toss it in the garbage. And do not flush it down the toilet to avoid possible plumbing problems.

6. Lastly but most importantly, never reuse a condom!! Don't risk your health to save a little amount of money.

OTHER TIPS

For more comfort and pleasure, some prefer adding lubricant either on the penis or the condom. However, if you're using a latex condom, do not use oil-based lubrication such as lotions, baby oil, or Vaseline because these products will weaken the latex. Instead, use water-based lubricants such as K-Y jelly.

But what is more important than the correct use is consistency. All sexually-active individuals who have sexual relations with anyone whose HIV status is not known to them should use a new condom for every act of intercourse.

Always remember that without protection you will never know if you get infected or not. Only one mistake can destroy your life forever. So, go protect yourself.

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