Your Hands-On Guide to Using Condoms for Safe and Pleasurable Sex
Share
Condoms are one of the most effective tools we have for preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While they are simple to use, knowing how to use them correctly for different types of sex—whether you're in a heterosexual or homosexual couple—is key to ensuring both your safety and your pleasure.
This guide will walk you through the proper steps for using condoms in various scenarios, making every experience a confident one.
1. The Basics: How to Put on an External Condom
This is your foundation for all types of sex involving a penis.
* Check the expiry date. Make sure it’s not past its use-by date.
* Open the wrapper carefully. Tear at the designated notch. Be careful not to use your teeth, which can rip the condom.
* Determine the direction. Place the condom on the tip of the erect penis, making sure the rolled rim is facing outwards, ready to roll down.
* Pinch the tip. Pinch the very tip of the condom to squeeze out any air. This prevents air bubbles that can cause the condom to break and leaves space for semen.
* Roll it on. Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis. If it doesn't unroll, you may have it on backwards. Discard it and use a new one.
* Add lube. Once the condom is on, apply a generous amount of water-based or silicone-based lubricant to the outside for added comfort and to reduce friction.
* Remove promptly. After ejaculation, and while the penis is still erect, hold the base of the condom against the penis and withdraw from your partner. This prevents it from slipping off and spilling semen.
* Dispose properly. Wrap the used condom in a tissue and place it in the bin. Do not flush it down the toilet.
2. Condoms for Different Forms of Sex
While the basic steps are the same, different types of sex have unique considerations for safety and pleasure.
* For Vaginal Sex: Use a standard latex or non-latex external condom. Apply a generous amount of water-based or silicone-based lube to the outside of the condom to ensure comfort and reduce the risk of tearing. Remember, proper lubrication is a game-changer!
* For Anal Sex: This is where lubrication is absolutely critical. The anus does not produce its own lubrication, so friction is much higher. Use a very generous amount of silicone-based lube and reapply as needed. Silicone lube is especially great for this, as it lasts longer and doesn't get sticky. External condoms work perfectly for anal sex.
* For Oral Sex (on a penis): To prevent the spread of STIs, a condom is a good idea. Consider using a flavoured condom to make the experience more enjoyable for the receiving partner. Always use a new condom for this, and do not reuse it for vaginal or anal sex.
* For Oral-Vaginal or Oral-Anal Sex: An external condom won't work here. Instead, you should use a dental dam, which is a thin sheet of latex or polyurethane. Place it over the vagina or anus to create a protective barrier during oral contact. If you don't have one, you can also carefully cut open a latex condom (non-lubricated) to create a makeshift square barrier.
3. Understanding and Using Internal Condoms
The internal condom (formerly known as a "female condom") is an excellent alternative for all couples. It is a pouch with flexible rings at both ends that can be inserted into the vagina or anus.
* How to Insert: Squeeze the smaller inner ring and insert it deep into the vagina or anus. The larger outer ring remains outside.
* Advantages: The internal condom offers protection for the person receiving, and it can be inserted well before the sexual activity begins, which can be a spontaneity-booster.
* Removal: Simply twist the outer ring and pull it out gently.
Key Takeaways for Safe and Fun Sex
* One and Done: Always use a new condom for each sexual encounter. Never reuse a condom.
* Lube Up: For all forms of sex, especially anal, use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant to enhance comfort and reduce friction.
* Shared Responsibility: Using a condom is a joint decision and a shared act of care. Communication with your partner about what feels good and what feels safe is the ultimate key to a great experience.