5 Things You Need to Know About Condoms

1. Provides Protection From STDs

A condom keeps semen, blood and vaginal secretions from passing from one partner to the other. Simply put, when the man ejaculates the semen remains in the condom and doesn't pass into the woman's vagina, preventing pregnancy. This not only prevents pregnancy but also protects against HIV, AIDs and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Use a condom for vaginal, oral and anal intercourse for consistent protection against STDs.

2. Lube Them Up

Many condoms come pre-lubricated (or even flavored), but always lubricate plain condoms before using them. Lubrication feels more pleasant and also prevents condoms from breaking during intercourse, When adding lubricant on your own always use a water based lubricant made specially for personal lubrication or use with condoms, like Astroglide or KY Jelly. Using oil based lubricants or baby oil weakens latex and can cause infection and make condoms break easily.

3. Wrap Up Unplanned Pregnancies

Although condoms remain one of the safest and most convenient forms of birth control, use them correctly and consistently every time you have sex to prevent pregnancy. Despite old wives tales to the contrary, condoms rarely break and are one of the few birth control methods without side effects. An occasional user may have an allergic reaction to the latex but they can use a lambskin condom instead.

4. Add Extra Protection to Your Condoms

To increase protection against pregnancy, use a barrier method like a contraceptive sponge or diaphragm. If that's too much extra baggage, try a spermicide capsule, jelly or foam containing nonoxynol-9 along with the condom.

5. Slow Down and Do It Right

Store the wrapped condom according to the manufacturer's directions. Tear open the package gently, with your hands, not your teeth. Take a quick look at it to make sure it's free of holes or tears. Always take care to put the condom over the penis when it's fully erect, not sooner. You can leave a bit of space at the tip of the condom to collect semen. If the condom tears while opening the package or putting it on, use another one. Make sure the condom fits securely. It may tear if it's too tight or slide off if it's too loose.