It's always a good idea to use a condom when you're having sex – whether its vaginal, anal or oral sex.
Follow the steps below to make sure you're using condoms the right way.
Step 1 – Get consent
Check that the other person consents to having sex with you.
Step 2 – Check the condom
Check the condom packet for the expiry date and to make sure it meets Australian Standards. Don’t use the condom if it’s out of date as it can break easily.
Open the packet carefully so you don’t damage the condom (no teeth – save the love bites for later).
Step 3 – Put it on
Hold the tip of the condom to remove any air. Put the condom on the head of an erect penis and roll it down to the base (or sex toy if you’re using one).
If it’s hard to roll down, the condom may be inside out. If that happens, it’s best to throw it away, get another and start again. Don’t re-use that one – it could already have genital fluids on it.
Step 4 – Use lube
Put some water-based lube on the outside of the condom. This helps prevent the condom from breaking and makes sex more pleasurable. Don’t use oil-based lubricants such as coconut oil or Vaseline – these can cause condoms to break.
If the condom rolls up during sex, stop and roll it back down. If the condom comes off or breaks during sex, replace it straight away with a new one.
Step 5 – Take it off
When you’re finished, make sure the penis is withdrawn while still erect. Hold onto the base of the condom as you pull out to stop it slipping off.
Step 6 – Put it in the bin
Remove the condom, wrap it up in tissue and put it in the bin.
To learn more about using condoms, watch the video below.
Before using a condom, check that it has not passed its expiry date.
As you open the packet, do so carefully so you do not damage or make a tear in the condom.
When the penis is erect, pinch the air out of the tip of the condom and roll it down over the penis.
Water-based lubricants should be used on the outside of the condom to make the experience more pleasurable and to reduce the risk of the condom tearing.
Never use oil-based lubricants such as massage oil or Vaseline as they can weaken the condom.
After ejaculation, hold onto the base of the condom as the penis is pulled out so it does not stay behind.
Tie a knot in the condom and put it in the bin. Avoid putting it down the toilet as this can cause a blockage in the plumbing.
Remember to always use a new condom each time you have sex, or change from having one type of sex to another.