Condom Facts
Condom Facts
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If you are going to have sex, ya gotta use condoms!
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How do I use a condom?
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DO:
- Use a new condom every time you have sex.
- Carefully open the package so that you don't damage the condom with a fingernail or other sharp object.
- Place the condom on the head of your erect (hard) penis. Carefully roll the condom down over the length of your penis. If it will not roll, turn the condom over and start over.
- Once the condom is unrolled, it should cover all or most of your penis. Squeeze out any air bubbles trapped inside the condom.
- Apply a few drops of a water-based lubricant to the outside of the condom if needed.
- After you have an orgasm, hold the base of the condom and withdraw your penis while it is still hard.
- Wrap the condom so that semen can not leak out and then dispose of the condom. Do not flush the condom down the toilet.
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DON'T:
- Don't carry a condom around in your wallet. Condoms should be stored in a cool place. Condoms are usually good for 5 years after the manufacturing date; condoms lubricated with spermicide are good for about 2 years.
- Don't inflate the condom like a balloon. This can lead to leakage.
- Don't use an oil-based lubricant. Oil-based products such as Vaseline, cooking oil, baby oil, etc. will break down the latex and cause it to tear or break.
Where can I get condoms? The local Health Departments offer free condoms, all you have to do is ask! At the Whitfield County Health Department these may be picked up at the Women's Center or the Medical Access Clinic. For more information call your local health department. Local health department numbers are listed in the right column on this page.
What kind of condoms should I get? Always make sure that LATEX is on the box. Lambskin or natural condoms are made of animal intestines. These are NOT effective against the spread of HIV. Condoms come lubricated and non-lubricated. For vaginal and anal sex, lubricated is the best choice. For oral sex, non-lubricated condoms are better. Some non-lubricated condoms come in flavors for use in oral sex.
What if one of us is allergic to latex?If you or your partner is allergic to Latex, there are polyurethane or synthetic condoms that are effective protection against STDs, HIV and pregnancy.
The Teen Health Program website is funded through the Georgia Department of Public Health - Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program.