Condoms are invaluable tools for protecting yourself and your partners from STIs, BBVs and pregnancy, but they are only effective when used properly. For a guide on how to safely and effectively put on a condom, see our guide, but here are some additional do’s and don’ts that you may not be aware of!
DO
- Practice condom use before sex
- Know where to get the condoms
- Get consent
- Check the expiry date
- Check for punctures in the packet
- Use water based lube
- Remove condom immediately after use
- Keep away from damage
- Change condom between partners
- Try out different sized condoms
- Communicate with partner about condom use
- Store below 40°c
DON’T
- Use scissors to open the packaging
- Use teeth to open the packaging
- Pin the condom packet to anything
- Leave in a car
- Wear more than 1 condom at a time
- Use a condom that’s too big or small for your penis
- Use non-water based lube
- Re-use a condom
- Make your own condom
- Flush down the toilet
- Keep in direct sunlight