| Negotiating Condom Use How to talk with your partner about condoms and safer sex “I don't have any kind of disease! Don't you trust me?” “Of course I trust you, but anyone can have an STI and not even know it. This is just a way to take care of both of us.” “I don't like sex as much with a rubber. It doesn't feel the same.” “This is the only way I feel comfortable having sex but believe me, it'll still be good even with protection! And it lets us both just focus on each other instead of worrying about all that other stuff…” “I'm [or you're] on the pill.” “But that doesn't protect us from STIs, so I still want to be safe, for both of us.” “I didn't bring any condoms.” “ I have some, right here.” “I don't know how to use them.” “ I can show you – want me to put it on for you?” “Let's just do it without a condom this time.” “It only takes one time to get pregnant or to get an STI. I just can't have sex unless I know I'm as safe as I can be.” |
| PROPER CONDOM USAGE Check the Expiration Date Check for Rips or Tears Check For Air Pockets Slide Condom to One Side and open from the Other Side Take out The Condom and Hold the Tip Make certain that either the condom is lubricated to avoid a condom break, it is almost always due to lack of lubrication. Vaseline should not be used for lubrication, as this product has a deteriorating effect on rubber. Put the condom on as soon as erection is achieved. The condom should be rolled onto the erect penis all the way to the base of the penis. The condom will only unroll in one direction, so it is important to notice which way the open end of the condom is facing. When withdrawing, hold the ring of the condom against the body. This will insure that no sperm leak out of the open end of the condom. Condoms with reservoir ends are preferable for the reason; they catch the sperm in a convenient pocket. Tie The Condom In A Knot (Optional) And Dispose (Don't Flush Down The Toilet) Condoms should be used only one time. Always use a condom during sex. |
| Abstinence or Celibacy "Protected" vaginal or anal intercourse (use of condoms and spermicides) Discussing with your sexual partners previous sexual history Demand using a new latex or polyurethane condom every time with sexual partners for safer sexual practices. Ask potential sexual partners about their use of drugs and steroids, especially their use of needles. |
