Abstinence is the only 100% effective way to prevent pregnancy and STDs. If you choose to have sex, condoms are the only method that protects against pregnancy AND STDs! That is why it is smart to use a condom every time you have sex. Do you know how to use a condom correctly? Find free condoms and learn how to use them correctly:
Picking a condom
External condoms come in lots of colors and textures (like ribbed) these days but all condoms, even if they are free, are effective! Just remember, they should be made of plastic or latex because animal skin condoms do not protect against STDs, only pregnancy. Condoms also come in a variety of sizes. Someone may find a specific size more comfortable but in general, all condoms stretch. If a condom is too big, it can be more likely to slip off.
Storing and opening a condom
Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent breakage. When you go to use a condom, make sure you inspect it before opening. Condom packages show an expiration date. If a condom is past the date, or looks dry, brittle, stiff, or sticky, it shouldn't be used. Keeping a few spares on hand is a good idea in case the package gets damaged or you put it on incorrectly. Condoms, like bags of chips, have an air bubble. Push the condom to the side and see if you can feel an air bubble. This is a good way to know that the package does not have any small holes in it.
Using condoms with other forms of birth control
Many people also use an additional form of birth control, such as the Pill, IUD, or implant in addition to the condom. These methods of birth control do not protect against STDs so it is always a good idea to use a condom. Condoms can be used with other methods of birth control but two condoms should never be used together- even if one is a male/external condom and one is a female/internal condom.
Allergies
Some people are allergic to latex. If someone is allergic to latex, there are many other types of condoms they can use, or even consider the internal condom! Just remember, animal skin condoms should not be used because they do not protect against STDs.
Putting a condom on correctly
The condom should be put on before intercourse begins. Make sure a condom is going on the right way. The rolls of the condom should be on the outside like a hat, if the rolls are on the inside, like a beanie, the condom will not be able to roll down. If someone accidentally puts a condom on the wrong way, that’s ok! Just be sure to throw it away and grab another one. Flipping the condom over will make the condom less effective. The rolled condom should be placed over the head of the penis after it is hard and erect, leaving a half-inch of space at the tip to collect semen. (Pinching the air out of the tip with thumb and forefinger can help to prevent breakage). Next the condom should be unrolled over the entire length of the penis down to the base. The condom should fit snugly and not look like it will slide off during intercourse.
Removing a condom
Immediately after ejaculation, the penis should be withdrawn slowly before it softens. The base of the condom should be held against the penis to avoid spilling the semen as it's withdrawn. The condom should be wrapped in tissue and thrown away. Remember, condoms are one time use only!
Choosing the right lubricant
Using a pre-lubricated condom, or applying a water-based lubricant-such as K-Y jelly or Astroglide - both inside and outside the condom - can help prevent rips. Oil-based lubricants (like Vaseline, body lotions, coconut or vegetable oils, and food products) should not be used because they can cause the condom to dissolve.
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