Using a condom correctly

Using a condom correctly Condoms will only provide protection from the herpes virus if they are used properly. If you are not used to handling condoms, take some time alone to practice with them - try putting it on yourself if you are a man, or on a banana or similar object if you are a woman.
Tips for condom use: Always use a new condom every time you have sex. Choose a high quality, lubricated, latex brand. Store your condoms in a cool dry place. Do not carry them in your wallet or pocket as they can be damaged by heat and friction. If you do have to carry condoms about, replace unused condoms regularly. Check the condom's expiry ('use by') date. This is stamped on the package. Put the condom on the erect penis before there is any contact with the vagina, mouth or anus. Roll the condom rim all the way to the base of the penis. If you use a lubricant, make sure it is water-based and not oil-based (petroleum jelly, mineral oil, vegetable oil and similar lubricants can damage the latex).To check whether a product is oil-based, put some on your finger and run it under hot water. If the lubricant remains oily and does not melt away, then it is oil-based. Using a spermicidal, contraceptive jelly containing nonoxynol 9 or benzalkonium chloride with a condom is a good idea, so long as it does not irritate your skin. Dispose of the condom carefully. Do not let your partner touch the used condom. Tie off the end to stop the contents from spilling and place it in the rubbish bin, not the toilet. If you use a female condom, follow the instructions on the packet carefully.

Using a condom correctly

Condoms will only provide protection from the herpes virus if they are used properly. If you are not used to handling condoms, take some time alone to practice with them - try putting it on yourself if you are a man, or on a banana or similar object if you are a woman.

Tips for condom use:

• Always use a new condom every time you have sex. Choose a high quality, lubricated, latex brand.
• Store your condoms in a cool dry place. Do not carry them in your wallet or pocket as they can be damaged by heat and friction. If you do have to carry condoms about, replace unused condoms regularly.
• Check the condom's expiry ('use by') date. This is stamped on the package.
• Put the condom on the erect penis before there is any contact with the vagina, mouth or anus.
• Roll the condom rim all the way to the base of the penis.
• If you use a lubricant, make sure it is water-based and not oil-based (petroleum jelly, mineral oil, vegetable oil and similar lubricants can damage the latex).To check whether a product is oil-based, put some on your finger and run it under hot water. If the lubricant remains oily and does not melt away, then it is oil-based.
• Using a spermicidal, contraceptive jelly containing nonoxynol 9 or benzalkonium chloride with a condom is a good idea, so long as it does not irritate your skin.
• Dispose of the condom carefully. Do not let your partner touch the used condom. Tie off the end to stop the contents from spilling and place it in the rubbish bin, not the toilet.

If you use a female condom, follow the instructions on the packet carefully.

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