Male condoms

Male condoms are made of plastic, animal membrane, or more commonly latex, and are rolled over an erect penis to prevent semen from entering a woman’s vagina during and after intercourse. This is also one of the most effective methods to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

How to use condoms?

1. Use the Easy-Tear Edge – Use the zig-zag edge, known as the easy-edge, to open the condom wrapper. It is designed to open quickly and easily. Avoid using scissors, machetes, teeth, or any other sharp instrument to open the package, as you may risk damaging the condom in the process.
2. Determine where the condom rolls – This can be difficult in some cases, especially when you are in a dark place. The best thing to do is to feel which way it is supposed to roll with your fingers. Otherwise, keep in mind that most regular lubricated condoms only lubricate on the outside, which means you should be able to determine which direction you are pointing by finding the lubricated side of the condom.
3. The penis must be fully erect – Condoms should always fit snugly, but not too tight, without wrinkles in the condom. If it is rolled over a penis that is not yet fully erect, it can fall off or break during intercourse.
4. Check for damage or breakage – Check the condom periodically. If you notice that it is loose or has broken during sexual intercourse, it should be replaced immediately. Use emergency contraception, such as pills, to prevent pregnancy and avoid fertilization. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate or be afraid to consult your doctor.
5. Take off the condom after ejaculation – Remove the condom by grasping it at the bottom, to prevent it from spilling or slipping. This will also prevent the condom from entering the vagina.
6. Dispose of properly – After removing the condom, tie its open end and consider wrapping it with toilet paper or tissue paper. Dispose of the condom by throwing it away.

Female condoms

A female condom is used before having sex by inserting it into the woman’s vagina. It is usually made from a synthetic rubber called nitrile. Like male condoms, it also serves as a barrier to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

How to use?

1. Gently remove the female condom from your pocket. Do not open the package with your teeth or any sharp material to avoid damage.
2. The smaller ring of the condom should be squeezed at the closed end and then carefully inserted into the vagina.
3. The penis must fit into the female condom.
4. Gently remove the condom immediately after sex to prevent semen from leaking out.
5. Throw the condom in the trash and remember not to flush it down the toilet.

How does it work?

The main function of condoms is to prevent semen (sperm) from reaching the egg. It serves as a barrier to ensure that fertilization does not occur. Condoms for men can have lubrication and spermicide that will kill sperm quickly and efficiently.

To use the condom effectively, it is recommended that the condom is always used before sexual intercourse, as sperm is likely to appear even before the man’s ejaculation or climax.

In addition to preventing pregnancy, condoms help stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Remember to always use condoms, even when having oral sex, as it can be a route for STDs. Condoms must be rolled up properly before sex and removed immediately after ejaculation.

Benefits of using condoms

A condom is the easiest way to prevent pregnancy and much more effective than other contraceptive methods that are available to couples. Here is a list of the main benefits, when used correctly.

• Protects and prevents the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
• Prevents unwanted pregnancies.
• It is a reliable and efficient method when used correctly.
• It can be used by all couples.
• It is not a hassle to use and easy to take with you wherever you go.
• It is easy to use and can enhance pleasure (depending on the type of condom).
• You do not need an exam or prescription.
• It is almost available anywhere and is very inexpensive.
• It is harmless and safe for health, unlike birth control pills.
• It has no side effects for men or women.

Important things to remember when using condoms

• Avoid breaking the condom while opening it from its wrapper.
• Using a condom is highly recommended whenever you have sex.
• It is not recommended to use male and female condoms simultaneously. Either should be enough.
• Condoms must be used before having sex.
• Use a new condom every time you have sex.
• Remove the condom while the penis is still erect.
• The effectiveness of using a condom depends on how well it was put on and used.
• Always use condoms, especially when engaging in sexual activities that can transmit sexually transmitted diseases.
• Checking the expiration date of the condom is very important, because over time its material can easily degrade and break if used after the expiration date.

Where to get or buy a condom?

Condoms are commonly available at pharmacies and family health clinics. But you can also get them in supermarkets and buy condoms online for convenience. An example could be finding them on Amazon and saving them to a wish list if you want to buy them later, or you can order them right away (example: http://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/1SD6WX3W2GXZY/). Sometimes condoms can be purchased from a vending machine, and many family planning clinics are now giving away condoms.

When should it be used?

Condoms should and can be used every time you have sex with your partner. The effectiveness of the condom depends on its proper use. Both partners are responsible for using a condom during intercourse.