Safer sex

Using Condoms

Condoms are easy to use, especially if you both understand that you need to use them. There are several common excuses for not using condoms, but truthfully, your health and that of your partner is the most valid counter-argument you can make.

Always use a male or female condom (or other barrier method) for safer sex.

When used correctly, condoms can protect you and your partner against both sexually transmitted infections (STIs; also called sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs) and pregnancy.

Use a condom the first time and every time you have sex. Why? The condom gives protection by providing a physical barrier or shield between partners. Apply the condom before sex.

The male condom covers the penis. A female condom is a liner worn in the vagina. Both are effective but don't use both condoms together.

Use a condom for oral, vaginal, or anal sex, or when sharing sex toys. For oral sex, use a condom, a condom cut length-wise or a dental dam on the contact area.

You will feel more comfortable using a condom if you practise before you need it. This is especially true of the female condom.

Insist on safer sex even if your partner says he or she is "safe". Say no to anyone who is not willing to practise safer sex.

Where and how to get them

You can buy male condoms at many stores and supermarkets. Female condoms and male condoms are also available at drug stores without a prescription. These are usually in boxes with more than one in the box.

You can also purchase individual male condoms from vending machines in many restaurants or bars.

Some STI clinics and public health centres may offer male condoms free. Look in the telephone book under Health, Sexual Health, or Sexually Transmitted Disease.

Store male condoms away from sunlight in a cool, dry place. Female condoms need no special storage.

Always use a new condom each time you have sex.

Check the label

The most common type of condom is the latex condom, but synthetic (polyurethane) condoms also offer protection against unintended pregnancies as well as STI including HIV.

Avoid oil-based products (like petroleum jelly, vaginal cream) when using a latex condom because they can weaken the condom. (See Lube, lube, lube… which one do I choose? for more information.) Then the condom won't provide as much protection—it may even break.

Natural membrane condoms (also called "sheepskin") are not recommended for use in protection against certain viral diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.

Novelty condoms do not offer pregnancy and STI prevention.

Nonoxynol-9 is a chemical that may irritate and increase the risk of HIV transmission. Use condoms without nonoxynol-9 if possible.

Check the "Exp" or expiry date on the condom packaging. If you can't find the expiry date or the date has passed, don't use the condom. Condoms used after the expiry date may not offer protection.

Try several brands and types of condoms until you find those that are best for you. Flavoured condoms are available in some stores or clinics for oral sex.