Sexual Health
Slideshow: Condom Use & Tips
Slideshow: Condom Use & Tips
When condoms don't work, it's mostly due to improper use. Approximately two percent of condoms tear during use. Nearly all of these condom failures are caused by human error, like not using enough lube or by creating tears with long, sharp or jagged fingernails.
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Store Condoms ProperlyJust like Grandma always kept her potatoes stored someplace dark & cool, that's where condoms should be kept -- away from heat and sunlight. Even more important is to never store them under pressure, like in your back pocket or wallet. They'll degrade that way. -
Pinch Air Out of the TipThe average male ejaculates at approx. 28 miles per hour. That's faster than MUNI. If your wad hits an air pocket, it could blow a hole through the end of the condom. To prevent this, be sure there is no air trapped in the condom before rolling it on to the penis. Do this by pinching the end with your fingers, which also leaves space for semen to collect. -
Use it Only OnceEven though everyone is all eco-conscious these days, with condoms, it's not a good idea to recycle. Use each condom only once. If the condom slips off during sex, do not put it back on. When playing in groups, use only one condom per partner. -
Condoms Have a Shelf LifeJust as condoms have an expiration date, they're also only meant to last for only 20 minutes of rigorous use. For extended play, take a break and begin with a fresh one. This is especially important information for guys using crystal meth during sex, where it's easy to lose track of time. A tip to watch the time: if porn is part of your background ambience, remember that the average scene in a porn movie lasts about 20 minutes. -
It's all about the FitBe honest about your size, despite what your online profile says. A condom that's too small for your dick might break during sex. Likewise, a condom that's too big can fall off, and even fall into your partner's hole. If someone says that they can’t get hard with a condom on or that they are too big for a condom, try different brands. Larger condoms, snugger fit condoms, and synthetic non-latex polyurethane condoms are all available at our Outreach Office on 207 Sanchez Street. -
Lube is ImportantEspecially with condoms, friction can cause tears in the anal tissue. For latex condoms, use only water or silicone-based lube. Don't use oils of any sort - baby oil, Crisco, cooking oil, Vaseline or other petroleum-based products with latex, as the condom will easily break. Some petroleum-based lubes are great for beating off but at the same time are like Kryptonite to condoms. -
Dispose of Condoms ProperlyTie the end into a knot and toss it in the garbage. Don't flush condoms down the toilet, as they can clog pipes and other plumbing.
