Choosing the Right Condom
Some people think that using a condom makes sex less fun. Other people have become creative and find condoms sexy. Not having to worry about infecting someone will definitely make sex much more enjoyable!
If you are not used to using condoms: practice, practice, practice.
Thick or thin?
Gay men used to be advised to use thicker condoms for anal sex because they would provide more protection. Thicker condoms were sold as ‘extra strong’ or ‘ultra strong’, but research now shows regular strength (thinner) condoms are no more likely to break than thicker condoms. This is good news because thinner condoms give the person who is wearing one more sensation when having sex. Regular strength condoms are also sold and given out for free in many more businesses, establishments and local health clinics. In fact, if a condom breaks it’s usually because it wasn’t used properly, not because of how thick or thin it was. When a condom does break, it is usually due to user error, such as not putting it on correctly or having sex that is too rough, instead of a manufacturing malfunction. Click here for how to avoid condoms breaking or coming off.
The right size
All men are born differently. Some are tall, while others are short. Our differences also include the size of each man's penis. Men's penises come in different shapes and sizes – and so do condoms. While using a condom in the past, has it slipped off or been too tight? If you can answer this question, ask yourself this one. Are you using the right size? If a condom is too small for you, the condom can split and feel restricting and uncomfortable. If the condom is too big it could slip off. Therefore you need to use a condom that is just right for you and fits you correctly.
* When you purchase condoms in a store, the packet usually gives measurements of the condoms inside.
* If you want or need smaller condoms, look for those called ‘trim’ or ‘snug fit’.
* If you want or need wider or longer condoms look for those called ‘XL’ or ‘Magnum’.
To view places in Wake County to get free condoms CLICK HERE
Many times, it can be easier finding different size condoms online than in shops.
If you are not used to using condoms: practice, practice, practice.
Thick or thin?
Gay men used to be advised to use thicker condoms for anal sex because they would provide more protection. Thicker condoms were sold as ‘extra strong’ or ‘ultra strong’, but research now shows regular strength (thinner) condoms are no more likely to break than thicker condoms. This is good news because thinner condoms give the person who is wearing one more sensation when having sex. Regular strength condoms are also sold and given out for free in many more businesses, establishments and local health clinics. In fact, if a condom breaks it’s usually because it wasn’t used properly, not because of how thick or thin it was. When a condom does break, it is usually due to user error, such as not putting it on correctly or having sex that is too rough, instead of a manufacturing malfunction. Click here for how to avoid condoms breaking or coming off.
The right size
All men are born differently. Some are tall, while others are short. Our differences also include the size of each man's penis. Men's penises come in different shapes and sizes – and so do condoms. While using a condom in the past, has it slipped off or been too tight? If you can answer this question, ask yourself this one. Are you using the right size? If a condom is too small for you, the condom can split and feel restricting and uncomfortable. If the condom is too big it could slip off. Therefore you need to use a condom that is just right for you and fits you correctly.
* When you purchase condoms in a store, the packet usually gives measurements of the condoms inside.
* If you want or need smaller condoms, look for those called ‘trim’ or ‘snug fit’.
* If you want or need wider or longer condoms look for those called ‘XL’ or ‘Magnum’.
To view places in Wake County to get free condoms CLICK HERE
Many times, it can be easier finding different size condoms online than in shops.
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Image provided by Florida Department of Health 'We Make The Change' Campaign.
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Condom quality
Condoms last about 5 years inside their protective wrappers. Check the expiration date on the condom wrapper - after this date it’s more likely to break (although any condom is better than no condom). Heat, sunlight, damp environments and condom packets getting pressed and crushed all weaken condoms so try not to keep them in the sun, near warm objects or in trouser pockets for a long period of time. Latex or non-latex? The majority of condoms are made using latex and some men are allergic to the latex condoms are made from. If this is the case, you can also purchase condoms made from polyurethane instead of latex. To view places in Wake County to get free condoms CLICK HERE |
Using Female Condoms for Anal Sex
Some men may even want to try using Female Condoms for anal sex. When you open the female condom packet make sure to take out the inner ring of the female condom before you insert the condom inside the anus. Once the condom has been inserted then you will be able to start having anal sex. Make sure that you insert the penis inside the female condom and not between the female condom and the wall of the anus.
Remember
Condoms with the spermicide Nonoxynol-9 are NOT recommended for STD/HIV prevention. Nonoxynol-9 (N9) irritates rectal walls, which increases the chance of HIV infection if infected body fluids do come in contact with them.
Remember that condoms do not provide 100% protection against all STDs —but you are ALWAYS safer using a condom! You can get certain STDs, like herpes or HPV , from contact with your partner's bare skin, even if one of you is wearing a condom. But condoms lessen the risk of infection even for those types of STDs.
To view places in Wake County to get free condoms CLICK HERE
Reminder: Never use a condom more than once
Quick Condom Guide: Pinch it, Roll it, Lube it, Do it
To learn more about how to use a condom correctly, see the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Tips For Using Condoms And Dental Dams .
Some men may even want to try using Female Condoms for anal sex. When you open the female condom packet make sure to take out the inner ring of the female condom before you insert the condom inside the anus. Once the condom has been inserted then you will be able to start having anal sex. Make sure that you insert the penis inside the female condom and not between the female condom and the wall of the anus.
Remember
Condoms with the spermicide Nonoxynol-9 are NOT recommended for STD/HIV prevention. Nonoxynol-9 (N9) irritates rectal walls, which increases the chance of HIV infection if infected body fluids do come in contact with them.
Remember that condoms do not provide 100% protection against all STDs —but you are ALWAYS safer using a condom! You can get certain STDs, like herpes or HPV , from contact with your partner's bare skin, even if one of you is wearing a condom. But condoms lessen the risk of infection even for those types of STDs.
To view places in Wake County to get free condoms CLICK HERE
Reminder: Never use a condom more than once
Quick Condom Guide: Pinch it, Roll it, Lube it, Do it
To learn more about how to use a condom correctly, see the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Tips For Using Condoms And Dental Dams .
A Condom For EveryoneWatch this video to see just how many different types of condoms are available to use. There are all types of shapes, colors and flavors of condoms, just like there are many different types of people. Try out all the different types of condoms and discover the ones that fit you and work the best for you. |
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Tests:
Find places where you can get free HIV/STD testing in Wake County.
Condoms: Find places where you can get free condoms in Wake County.
For general information about Wake County’s HIV/STD program and testing, please call 919-250-3950.
Do you have questions about HIV/STDs that you want answered? E-mail questions to: std.program@wearemembersofthiscommunity.org
To see all other resources in Wake County, North Carolina & the United States, CLICK HERE to return to our resources and links page.
Condoms: Find places where you can get free condoms in Wake County.
For general information about Wake County’s HIV/STD program and testing, please call 919-250-3950.
Do you have questions about HIV/STDs that you want answered? E-mail questions to: std.program@wearemembersofthiscommunity.org
To see all other resources in Wake County, North Carolina & the United States, CLICK HERE to return to our resources and links page.
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This education awareness project is sponsored by the
LGBT Center of Raleigh . Created and designed by Luke Keeler . |
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