Condoms are an effective way to prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Here's a comprehensive guide on how to correctly use a condom for both men and women.
1. How to Use a Male Condom
Male condoms are worn on the penis during sexual activity. Here's how to use one correctly:
Step 1: Check the Expiry Date and Packaging
- Why: Expired or damaged condoms may break or be less effective.
- How: Look at the expiry date on the packaging and check for any tears or damage to the wrapper.
Step 2: Open the Condom Package
- Why: Opening carefully prevents damage.
- How: Tear open the package along the edge using your fingers. Avoid using sharp objects like teeth or scissors, as they could tear the condom.
Step 3: Determine the Correct Side
- Why: Putting the condom on the wrong way can make it difficult to roll down and may lead to breaks.
- How: Place the condom on the tip of the erect penis. The condom should resemble a small hat with a rolled rim. If it doesn’t unroll easily, it’s probably inside out.
Step 4: Pinch the Tip of the Condom
- Why: Pinching the tip removes air and leaves space for semen, reducing the risk of breakage.
- How: Pinch the tip of the condom (about 1/2 inch or 1 cm) between your fingers.
Step 5: Roll the Condom Down
- Why: Rolling the condom down ensures it covers the entire penis.
- How: While pinching the tip, use your other hand to roll the condom down the length of the erect penis until it reaches the base.
Step 6: During Intercourse
- Why: Condoms are most effective when used throughout the entire sexual act.
- How: Ensure the condom stays in place during intercourse. If it starts to slip off or break, stop immediately and replace it with a new one.
Step 7: After Ejaculation
- Why: Removing the condom carefully prevents spillage.
- How: After ejaculation, hold the condom at the base of the penis as you withdraw to prevent it from slipping off. Do this while the penis is still erect.
Step 8: Remove and Dispose of the Condom
- Why: Proper disposal is important for hygiene and the environment.
- How: Carefully slide the condom off the penis, making sure no semen spills. Tie the open end in a knot, wrap it in tissue, and dispose of it in a trash bin. Do not flush it down the toilet.
2. How to Use a Female Condom
Female condoms are worn inside the vagina. They create a barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Here’s how to use one:
Step 1: Check the Expiry Date and Packaging
- Why: Expired or damaged condoms are less effective.
- How: Check the expiry date on the package and ensure there are no tears or damage.
Step 2: Open the Condom Package
- Why: Careful opening prevents damage.
- How: Tear open the package using your fingers along the edge. Avoid using sharp objects that could tear the condom.
Step 3: Understand the Condom’s Structure
- Why: Proper understanding ensures correct insertion.
- How: The female condom has an inner ring at the closed end, which is used for insertion, and an outer ring at the open end, which remains outside the vagina.
Step 4: Insert the Condom
- Why: Correct insertion ensures the condom stays in place and provides effective protection.
- How:
- Step 4.1: Squeeze the inner ring at the closed end to make it narrow.
- Step 4.2: While in a comfortable position (sitting, squatting, or lying down), gently insert the squeezed inner ring into the vagina. Push it up until it reaches the cervix (the ring should sit just above the cervix, similar to a tampon).
- Step 4.3: Make sure the outer ring remains outside the vaginal opening. It should cover the vulva.
Step 5: During Intercourse
- Why: Ensuring proper placement prevents the condom from being pushed inside the vagina.
- How: Guide the penis into the condom's open end, ensuring it stays inside the condom and doesn’t slip between the condom and the vaginal wall.
Step 6: After Intercourse
- Why: Careful removal prevents spillage.
- How: After intercourse, twist the outer ring to keep the semen inside, then gently pull the condom out.
Step 7: Dispose of the Condom
- Why: Proper disposal is important for hygiene and environmental reasons.
- How: Wrap the used condom in tissue or its original wrapper and dispose of it in a trash bin. Do not flush it down the toilet.
Conclusion
Using condoms correctly is essential for effective contraception and STI prevention. Always check the packaging and expiration date, follow the steps for proper application, and dispose of the condom appropriately after use. Whether you're using a male or female condom, practicing safe sex ensures both you and your partner are protected.
