She Strengthens

Safer Sex Made Easy: A Comprehensive Guide to Condoms

Are you unsure about using condoms? Do you have questions about how to put them on, choose the right size, and avoid common mistakes? You’re not alone! Many people don’t receive adequate condom education, leading to feelings of awkwardness and uncertainty. But fear not! We’re here to provide you with everything you need to know to correctly use a condom, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable sexual experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Putting on a Condom

External Condoms

External condoms are designed for penises and sex toys that are inserted into the mouth, vagina, or anus. Here’s how to put one on:

1. Check the expiration date: Make sure the condom is not expired before using it.
2. Carefully open the package: Avoid using your teeth, as this can risk tearing the condom.
3. Ensure it’s not inside out: The condom should have a reservoir tip that looks like a little hat and a rolled rim facing outward.
4. Put it on a fully erect penis: Pinch the tip of the condom and unroll it all the way down the shaft to the base.
5. Apply lubricant: Rub a generous amount of lube around the whole penis or sex toy to prevent breakage.

Internal Condoms

Internal condoms are designed for people with vaginas. Here’s how to put one on:

1. Check the expiration date: Make sure the condom is not expired before using it.
2. Carefully open the package: Avoid tearing the condom.
3. Squeeze the ring: Squeeze the ring on the closed end of the condom into an oval and push it into your vagina.
4. Push it in further: Use two fingers to push the condom as far as you can into your vagina.
5. Check the fit: The inner ring should rest on your cervix, and the condom should expand on its own.

How to Take Off a Condom

For external condoms:

1. Secure the base: Hold the base of the condom before pulling out to prevent cum from leaking out.
2. Tie a knot: Tie a knot in the condom and throw it away in a trash can.

For internal condoms:

1. Twist and slide: Gently twist the thin, outer ring of the condom and slide it out of your vagina.
2. Tie a knot: Tie a knot in the condom and throw it away in a trash can.

Choosing the Right Condom Size

Using the wrong size condom can lead to breakage, discomfort, and decreased pleasure. Here’s how to find your size:

1. Measure your penis: Measure the length, girth, and width of your penis when it’s erect.
2. Use a string: Measure with a string and then measure the string to get accurate measurements.
3. Check the size chart: Refer to the size chart provided by the condom manufacturer to find your perfect fit.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Condom Usage

Do:

• Store condoms in a cool, dry place
• Put the condom on before contact with your partner’s mouth or genitals
• Check for tears before using
• Use a water or silicone-based lube (if using latex condoms)
• Put on a new condom if it breaks or falls off

Don’t:

• Store condoms in your wallet or purse
• Use it inside out
• Use an internal and external condom at the same time
• Use with latex condoms with oils or oil-based lube
• Use more than one condom at a time
• Reuse condoms

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the condom breaks or comes off? Pull out immediately, and consider using the Plan B pill to decrease the chance of getting pregnant.

Can you still get pregnant when using a condom? Yes, there’s still a small chance of getting pregnant even with perfect use.

Do I need to use a condom during oral sex? It’s a good idea to use a condom during oral sex to prevent STIs.

What about anal sex? Use a condom to prevent STIs and make anal sex feel better.

Tips for Keeping Cool in the Moment

Practice putting on a condom by yourself to build confidence. Make it sexy by incorporating it into foreplay. Have sex with a supportive partner who makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. Remember, using a condom is a normal and important part of safer sex.