If you have decided to become sexually active, using a condom is essential ! 

Condoms, used correctly, will protect you from contracting most STI's, and from possible unwanted pregnancy.  AND getting good at using condoms will really impress your partner !

Using a condom can be easy, once you know how!

Our advise is to get practising with these latex lovelies, as they could seriously protect your health and improve your sex life!

If you haven't used condoms before, or have experienced difficulties using condoms, then the best way to get good at it is to take some time on your own and practise using these easy to follow instructions.

Boys can practise using condoms whilst on their own and masturbating, (as long as you have some privacy and are not likely to get interrupted !).  Girls can practise condom use easily by rolling one down onto something, like a banana or even a hairbrush ! (again, as long as you have some privacy and are not liekly to get interrupted!).

Step By Step Guide to Condom Use

• Check that the condom foil is intact, that it is within the expiry date and that it has the BSI kitemark or CE mark.
  
  
• Tear along one side of the foil making sure that you do not damage the condom with sharp fingernails or jewellery as you squeeze the condom out.
  
  
• Put the condom on when the penis is erect, but before contact with your partner as fluid is often released in the early stages of an erection. This can cause pregnancy and pass on an infection.
  
  
• Hold the condom teat between the thumb and finger making sure the condom is the right way for unrolling. This expels air from the teat reducing the chance of it bursting.
  
  
• Using your other hand unroll the condom down the entire length of the penis, whilst still holding the teat. Make sure the condom stays in place during sex. If the condom should come off then open a new condom and put it on before continuing sex. If this happens, the female should attend for emergency contraception as a precaution against unintended pregnancy and both partners should get checked out for possible STI's.
  
  
• After ejaculation make sure you hold the base of the condom in place as you withdraw, only when the penis is completely withdrawn can you remove the condom. Make sure you keep the penis and used condom away from the vagina and anus.
  
  
• After use make sure you dispose of the condom hygienically, wrap it in a tissue and place it in a waste bin.
  
  
• Do not flush it down the toilet. Condoms can sometimes block a toilet, or come floating back up !  Needless to say neither of these are going to look good!

Important Condom Information

• Do not use oil based lubricants such as baby oil, petroleum jelly, body lotions, massage oils, butter etc, as they can damage latex condoms. If additional lubrication is required, use a water based lubricant or KY Jelly.
  
  
• Some medications applied to either the penis, vagina or anus may damage the condom, check with a doctor or pharmacist.
  
  
• Condoms used for anal sex may have increased risk of slipping off or being damaged.
  
  
• Never use a condom more than once.