Condoms

I’m ending AIDS
with Condoms

Condoms have been around forever and are still one of the best ways to reduce your risk of pregnancy, HIV and other STIs. With a vast selection of different styles and sensations, they can make intercourse even more fun and pleasurable! Yes, you’ve heard that before, but it really is true.

There are ‘female’ condoms in addition to the more common ‘male’ condom. Female condoms are a small pouch that can be inserted into the vagina before sex to form a barrier, and they, like male condoms, protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, as well as unexpected pregnancies.

You should NOT use a female condom and a male condom at the same time, as this can cause them to break – either one or the other is enough!

Why Use a Condom?

  1. Condoms preserve your health and give you control over your body.
  2. Condom prices vary; however, some clinics and health centres provide them for free.
  3. Condoms are widely available in supermarkets, gas stations, and ka ntembas, among other places.
  4. Condoms can help a male partner maintain stamina for longer.
  5. Condoms assist in the prevention of unplanned pregnancies, and the transmission of HIV and other STIs.

Which Type of Condom Should I Use?

Male and female condoms have both advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately which one you decide to use is an individual preference. Here are a few things to think about when assessing your options:

  • Effectiveness:
    Both male and female condoms are equally effective when used consistently and correctly.
  • Interruptions:
    Unlike male condoms, which are put on just before sex, you can insert the female condom ahead of time (up to eight hours before sex, or just before having sex). This means no interruptions once you decide to have sex.
  • Latex or No Latex:
    While most (but not all) male condoms are made of latex, female condoms are made from a soft plastic material called nitrile. This is hypoallergenic, meaning female condoms won’t irritate sensitive genital skin.
  • Lubricants:
    Male condoms can’t be used with oil-based lubricants as they may cause the latex to break. Female condoms can be used with any type of lubricant – whether oil, water or silicone.
  • Size and Variety:
    Female condoms are larger than male condoms and don’t fit snugly around the penis, so one size fits all. Male condoms come in a variety of flavours, sizes and textures.

How Do I Use a Condom?

Practice makes perfect!
Practise putting on a condom a few times before you use it for the first time. This will help you feel more comfortable, and the more comfortable you feel around them, the more enjoyable intercourse will be. Always check the expiry date on the packet and read the instructions. Be careful not to rip the condom when removing it from the packet; use your fingers (don’t use anything sharp like scissors or your nails).

Putting On a Male Condom

  • Put the condom on the erect penis the right side up. If the condom is inside-out, it won’t unroll easily like it should. Throw away the condom if inside-out and use a new one.
  • Make sure to squeeze any air out of the tip of the condom before putting it on.
  • Use plenty of water-based lubricant on the outside of the condom, and on the genitals. This will reduce rubbing and minimise the chances of the condom tearing.

Removing a Male Condom

  • Hold the condom at the base of the penis.
  • Pull the condom off slowly, making sure no semen spills out.
  • Throw away the used condom immediately.

Inserting a Female Condom

  • Sit, squat, lie or stand in a position you find comfortable, similar to how you would insert a tampon. Squeeze the smaller ring at the closed end of the condom and insert it into your vagina as far as it will go, making sure that it doesn’t twist. The large ring at the open end of the female condom will cover the area around the vaginal opening – it is normal for this part to sit outside your body.
  • When you have sex, the penis should enter into the female condom, rather than between the condom and the side of your vagina. You can help guide your partner to ensure it goes in the right place.

 Removing a Female Condom

  • After sex, twist the large ring to prevent semen from leaking out, and gently pull the female condom out.

Remember to always use a new male or female condom every time you have sex.  For any more advice or information, feel free to chat with your healthcare worker.