Safe Sex IQ - The Dos and Donts of Condom Use and Care

  • Added:
    Jan 05, 2014
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Safe Sex IQ - The Dos and Donts of Condom Use and Care Photo by John Dugan

When it comes to safe sex, most men believe they can just "roll it on and go," but the truth of the matter is, there is more to safe and appropriate condom use than just sliding one on. In fact, improper condom use can actually increase the risk of unwanted pregnancy and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. Check out these simple and straightforward do’s and don’ts for using and storing condoms to ensure maximum effectiveness and protection. After all, a man can never be too careful about maintaining a healthy penis!

Condom Do’s & Don’ts

1. Do open the condom carefully using the easy-tear edges (the zig-zag side).

Don’t use scissors or teeth to rip open the package, as this could tear the condom.

2. Do store condoms in a temperature-controlled, dry place.

Don’t leave condoms in the glove box or bathroom where extreme temperature and humidity can damage the latex.

3. Don’t carry condoms around in a wallet as the pressure and folding on the condom can damage it.

Do check the expiration date before use and discard any that are expired.

4. Don’t ever reuse condoms - even if they appear as though no bodily fluid is in them. Once the sexual activity is over, discard the used condom in the trash can.

Do change condoms if switching between different types of sexual activity (i.e. from vaginal to anal sex) to prevent infection and the spread of E. coli.

5. Do use condoms during oral sex, as certain infections can be passed from the penis to the mouth and vice versa.

Don’t use condoms that do not fit properly. Condoms that are too loose or too tight can tear or slip off inside a partner. If the size is incorrect, purchase a different brand and size.

6. Don’t attempt to put a condom on a flaccid penis, as it is likely to fall off or fit improperly.

Do ensure there are no baggy or loose spots on the condom, smooth out any air bubbles to ensure a proper fit.

7. Don’t apply an oil- or petroleum-based lubricant to a latex condom, as it can compromise the material.

Do select a water or silicon-based lubricant, which is safe to use with latex condoms.

8. Do remove condom immediately after sex and discard.

Don’t allow the penis to become flaccid before withdrawal from one’s partner, as the condom may accidentally fall off inside.

9. Do use a condom during each and every sexual encounter.

Don’t skip the condom, ever, for any reason, except in a committed, monogamous relationship.

Other safe sex tips:

  • Check which way the condom unrolls before attempting to place it on the penis. Attempting to unroll it incorrectly can cause a rip to form, in which case the condom needs to be discarded. If the condom is placed on the penis inside out at first, it should also be discarded as "pre-cum" may have gotten on that portion of the condom. Simply turning the condom around may increase the chance of pregnancy.
  • A small drop of lube placed inside the condom tip can make it easier to apply over an uncircumcised penis and reduce the chance of tearing. Only use a small amount, so that the reservoir still has room to catch semen, and only use the appropriate kind of lube based on the type of condom.
  • When putting the condom on, pinch the tip of the condom shut to eliminate the air pocket before carefully rolling it down over the erect penis.
  • If one or both partners has a latex allergy, try polyurethane condoms instead.
  • One can often get condoms 100% free of charge at local health clinics, so the cost of obtaining condoms should never be a factor for not using them.
  • To maintain proper hygiene and prevent bacterial infections, it is always a good idea to hop in the shower after sex. The combination of body fluids and lubricant can also cause itching, irritation and odor. After getting out of the shower, apply a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) containing vitamin A to keep bacteria at bay and keep the penis fresh and clean.

Author's Profile

Visit www.man1health.com for more information about treating common penis health problems, including soreness, redness and loss of penis sensation. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.


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