What is a condom?

The condom is available in several sizes and can be made of thin natural rubber or polyurethane rubber. It is shaped like a long sheath. The condom is rolled onto the stiff penis before intercourse. Upon ejaculation, the condom collects the sperm and thus protects against pregnancy. The condom also protects against sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia and HIV.

How to use the condom

A condom must be worn throughout intercourse, because semen can come from the penis before the actual ejaculation - and semen can make a girl pregnant. The condom also does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases if it is not on from the start.

1. When the penis has become erect, the foreskin is completely pulled back from the head of the penis (if you are not circumcised)
2. If the condom has a reservoir (a small spout at the end), hold the reservoir so that no air gets in, see fig. 3
3. Roll the condom down over the penis as smoothly as possible. There must be no air in the condom, see fig. 4
4. When the condom reaches the foreskin, you push the foreskin forward a little before rolling the condom all the way down to the root of the penis (if you are not circumcised)
5. When intercourse is over, or immediately after ejaculation, the guy must hold the condom at the root of the penis and pull out while the penis is still a little stiff. That way, the sperm stays inside the condom without running out
6. Tie a knot on the condom before throwing it in the waste bin. The condom must not be flushed down the toilet, as it can block the sewers.
7. Check whether the condom is broken before you throw it away after intercourse.

Download a visual condom gudie

Practice rolling the condom on

A condom must not be turned over if you have turned it the wrong way and started rolling it on the penis. Sperm cells may have gotten on it. Throw it away and get a new one. A condom can only be used once.

It is a good idea that you practice rolling on a condom before you have to be with a partner. Then you avoid some of the things that can lead to problems with the condom. Using a condom is a shared responsibility – so maybe you can do it as a part of your foreplay by taking turns putting on the condom.

Condoms and sharp objects do not go well together. Pay attention to how the condoms are handled and stored: sharp nails, jewelry and piercings can damage the rubber. Also, avoid keeping the condom in your purse or pocket.

Advantage

• If the condom is used correctly, there is 97% certainty of avoiding unwanted pregnancy
• The condom protects you both against infection with sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and HIV
• The condom rarely causes side effects
• Anyone can buy condoms - regardless of gender or age

It is not necessary to talk to a doctor before you start using a condom. Condoms can be bought at all pharmacies, in supermarkets, at petrol stations, in kiosks, via the internet etc. Condoms come in different shapes, sizes and colors. You can try different kinds, and that way find the type that you like best.

If you are going to travel, it is best to bring condoms from home.

Disadvantages

• Many guys thinks that the sensitivity during intercourse is reduced when they use a condom
• The condom can slip off during intercourse if not used correctly
• Semen can leak out of the condom if it is not used correctly
• The condom can break if it is subjected to special stress or if it is not used correctly
• Few people experience being hypersensitive to natural rubber

Condom along with other contraception

If a condom is used together with birth control pills or other contraception, the risk of unwanted pregnancy is theoretically excluded. At the same time, you have secured yourself against being infected with a sexually transmitted disease.

Condom and lubricant

If there is a tendency to dryness in the vagina, or if a condom is used in connection with anal sex (intercourse in the rectum), the use of a water-based or silicone-based lubricant together with the condom is recommended.

Water- or silicone-based lubricant is also recommended for intercourse with a condom during menstruation, because menstrual blood can dry out the rubber.

The water- or silicone-based lubricant significantly increases safety in relation to sexually transmitted diseases because it strengthens the durability and elasticity of the condom.

Oil-based cream, such as petroleum jelly or body lotion, dissolves the rubber and increases the risk of the condom breaking. At the same time, perfumed cream can also cause allergies if it is used in and around the genitals. Water- or silicone-based lubricant can, for example, can be bought at the pharmacy.