How To Use a Condom The Right Way

Before an erect penis goes anywhere near your partner’s mouth, vagina, vulva, butt, or anus, put on a condom. Here’s how:

1. Open the box or wrapper carefully. Avoid using scissors or even teeth, so you don’t damage the condom. (Click here for some must-know condom tips)

2. Check how the condom is positioned. It needs to look like a small hat with the rim on the outside. If you unwittingly put it inside-out, just get a new one. 

Note: If you have lubricated condoms, feel free to use additional lube. Condom lubrication is a great way to take your sexual activity up a notch.

How do you lube a condom correctly? Read our detailed guide.

3. Next, grasp the tip of the condom with two fingers and put it on the head of the penis. Be sure to keep a small gap at the top to collect the semen.

Note: If the penis is uncircumcised, push the foreskin back before putting the condom on for a more comfortable experience.

4. Unroll the condom from tip to base and have fun!

5. Right after ejaculation and while you’re still hard, grasp the rim of the condom and pull out of your partner’s body.

6. Step away from your partner and carefully remove the condom before tossing it in the trash (never flush it down the toilet!).

And that’s it! Pretty easy, right?

Pro Tip: Spice things up by adding a sex toy to the mix. And, yes, you can use one with a condom.

Want better intimacy? A lubricant can help you get there.

Condom FAQs

Are condoms effective at preventing pregnancy?

Condoms have a 98% effectiveness at catching sperm and preventing unplanned pregnancy. However, it may be best to use an alternate form of contraception (see below) in case of condom failure. 

How well do condoms help protect against HIV infection?

If you use a male condom consistently for both oral and penetrative sex, there’s a 90-95% chance of protection against the virus. 

Will using a condom only some of the time offer any protection from STIs (HIV included)?

If you or your companion have multiple partners, you must use a male condom (or a female condom) every single time. It’s the best way to have a higher chance of protection against a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV.

Will using condoms reduce the risk of STI transmission during anal sex?

Absolutely! It is riskier to have unprotected anal sex than it is to have unprotected vaginal intercourse, so definitely put one on before going through the back door for safer sex.

Are synthetic condoms effective at preventing STIs?

Yes, they are. A polyurethane condom (synthetic) and a latex condom are made to offer the same protection, but there’s no comprehensive research on either.

What can men and women do to lower the risk of pregnancy and STIs if a condom breaks or slips during sex?

• If you run the risk of pregnancy, get emergency contraception in the form of a pill.
• If you run the risk of HIV transmission, antiretroviral medications can help reduce transmission. But, it’s best to first see your doctor.
• If you’re worried about an STI, see a doctor or health professional who can suggest presumptive medication. 

Avoid vaginal douching—It won’t prevent pregnancy, and it will only increase your chances of catching an STI or yeast infection and cause inflammation. 

Can a man put two or three condoms on at once for more protection?

More than one condom can cause friction. Plus, it will increase the likelihood of condom breakage, so avoid doing this.

Will condoms make a man impotent or unable to have an erection?

Impotence can be a result of physical and emotional issues, but using condoms is never the cause. 

However, some men have trouble maintaining an erection with a condom. This may be because they think a condom will dampen the sensation of sex. Using a lubricant with a self lubricating condom can help stimulate an erection. 

You can also use a vaginal lubricant like Coconu’s coconut water based lubricant to massage the penis and give it a boost. 

Shop the all-natural Coconu Personal Lubricant range right here. It includes a water based lube, an oil based lubricant, and a Hemp body oil (that can also double as an oil based lube) — lubrication at its best!

Is latex allergy common?

Not at all. A latex allergy is very rare. But, if you do develop a reaction such as redness, rash, itching or swelling when your skin meets the latex, stop using it immediately and consult your doctor. 

Does sex lube have a shelf-life? Discover if your fave lube expires here.

Must-Know Condom Tips

• Store condoms properly—preferably in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and sharp items. And, no, your wallet, car, or bathroom aren’t ideal places as too much moisture and heat can break, tear, or weaken the condom.
  
  
• Carefully check the condom before usage. Look for:
• The expiry date
• Potential holes in the packaging
• Air bubbles
• Dry, torn, stiff, or sticky condoms
  
  
• If you’re uncertain about using a condom, a little practice never hurts. Men can practice on themselves, and women can substitute with a suitable fruit (banana) or vegetable (gherkin)!
  
  
• If you’re sexually active on the regular, keep a stock of condoms so you can keep the good times going - uninterrupted!
  
  
• Consult your doctor for an alternate form of contraception in the event the condom fails. Aside from the female condom (internal condom), some forms of birth control are:
• Oral contraceptive pill (commonly known as The Pill)
• Implant
• Intrauterine Device (IUD)
• Vaginal ring
• Contraceptive injection