Used correctly and consistently, condoms can be one of your best protections against pregnancy and STIs.

BY ROXANNE POON, RN, BS, CPHQ

When used correctly, condoms significantly reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy, HIV, and a host of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Here are some key points you and your partner should know about proper condom use:

Before the Action
• Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat or direct sunlight or even fluorescent light. Despite convenience, your wallet and/or car’s glove compartment are poor choices to store condoms.
• If the condom is beyond the expiration date, throw it out.
• Inspect the wrapper, making sure the package is not torn, then carefully open the package, taking care not to tear the condom.
• Using lubricants can reduce the risk of condom breakage. Only use water-based lubricants. Oil-based lubricants can weaken the latex.

Applying the Condom
• Before any sexual contact, always apply the condom to an erect penis. If you are not circumcised, pull back the foreskin. Put the condom over the tip of the penis before unrolling the condom all the way down the penis, leaving a little room at the tip for the ejaculate.
• Always use a new condom for each sexual act.

After the Action
• After ejaculation, while withdrawing your penis from your partner, hold on to the base of the condom to prevent the condom from slipping off or leaking ejaculate.
• Should the condom break or come off during sex before ejaculation, stop immediately and pull out. Speak to your healthcare provider for advice if there is breakage after ejaculation.

Sex certainly may be fun and natural, but the consequences of having unprotected sex are serious for you and your partner. Be smart, be consistent, and be responsible.

Roxanne M. Poon is a Registered Nurse who works as a quality improvement specialist at a major teaching hospital in New Jersey.

For more on condom use, CLICK HERE.