Choices for Sexual Health

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All about Condoms

Condoms are one of the effective ways to prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

It is important to have a conversation before sexual activity. Being prepared will reduce anxiety and help keep you safe. Condom use does not have to be a dull topic. Talk to your partner about size, texture and flavour. Make the purchasing of this intimate product an event leading up to your delicious time.

How to determine that your condom is safe to use.

You should always check that your chosen barrier method is safe to use before you plan to engage in intercourse.

Make sure to:

Check the expiration date. All condoms or dams have an expiration date printed on the box or the wrapper. Don’t use the condom after this date. Expired condoms may tear or break more easily.

Look for obvious defects. If a condom feels brittle or sticky, toss it and get a new one. If a condom is discolored, has an odor, or has any unusual textures, toss it. It’s better to use a condom you can trust.

Look for signs of friction. You probably know that you shouldn’t store condoms in your wallet or purse, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. If you do this, make sure to check for signs of friction on the wrapper. If the color has rubbed off, the condom inside is probably worn down, too. This means it’s more likely to break, so toss it and get a new one.

Outside Condom

Outside condoms are a barrier method of protection. They cover the penis tip and shaft and capture ejaculate that’s released during orgasm.

An outside condom can be used for vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Not only can it protect against unwanted pregnancy, it can also prevent STIs and other bacteria, such as fecal matter, from passing between partners.

How to use an outside condom

  1. Open the condom wrapper carefully. Don’t use your teeth or scissors, both could accidentally tear or puncture the condom.

  2. Check for damage or wear and tear that might make the condom fail.

  3. Hold the rim of the condom in one hand. Pinch the tip of the condom with your thumb and forefinger with the other.

  4. Roll the condom down the penis making sure the rim is on the outside. If the rim is under and not rolling correctly, remove it, and throw it away. Precum may be on the condom, and precum may contain trace amount of semen.

  5. Apply a few drops of water-based lube to the outside of the condom if you’d like to reduce friction. Lube can also enhance sensitivity.

  6. After orgasm or ejaculation, pull out of your partner’s body while your penis is still erect. Hold the condom in place with one hand while you pull out. Holding the condom prevents slippage, which could introduce semen or fluids into your partner’s body.

Inside condom

Inside condoms are larger than outside condoms. However, most people can still use them comfortably and effectively. nside condoms are primarily used for vaginal sex, but they can also be used for anal sex.

Like outside condoms, inside condoms are highly effective at preventing pregnancy and reducing the risk of sharing STIs when used correctly.

How to use an inside condom

  1. Remove the condom from the packaging. Don’t use your teeth or scissors, as this may tear or rip the condom.

  2. Get into a comfortable position. Consider lying on your bed or propping your leg on a stool.

  3. Pinch the smaller, inner ring that’s at the closed end of the condom between your thumb and forefinger. Use your other hand to pull back the folds of your labia around the vagina. Slide the squeezed inner ring into your vagina.

  4. Slide your forefinger, middle finger, or both into the open end of the condom until you reach the closed end of the condom. Gently push the condom further into your vagina until you reach the cervix.

  5. Rest the outer ring of the condom on the external hole/vagina. Hold it in place during intercourse. If the outer ring goes into the hole/vagina during penetration, pull it back out.

  6. Insert the penis into the condom, ensuring that it goes into the hole/vagina and not between the condom and the hole/vagina.

  7. After orgasm or ejaculation, twist the condom, and gently pull it out of your vagina, being careful not to spill semen.

What to do if your condom breaks during sex

If you’re in the middle of sex when you discover a broken condom, immediately withdraw from your partner’s body. Remove the condom and replace it with a new condom. Use a new dam if it breaks or tears.

If you know the condom broke during sex or you’re worried you might have been exposed to semen, you have options to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. Visit your doctor or a health clinic and ask about emergency contraception. Also consider getting an STI test to ensure that nothing spread between you and your partner.

Sex is meant to be fun and pleasurable. Being prepared is one of the best ways to add to the overall enjoyment of your sexual experiences.

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