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Reality check: Most contraceptives provide little to no protection against HIV and other STDs. Although they aren't 100% effective, consistent and correct use of latex condoms by those who are sexually active can substantially reduce the risk of sexual transmission of HIV. Consistent and correct use of condoms can also reduce risk of transmission of other STDs, including gonorrhea and chlamydia. The most important thing to remember about condoms is that in order to protect yourself, you need to use a new condom each and every time you have intercourse. To be extra safe, use one even when you're using another form of birth control.
Decisions, decisions: Condoms come in lots of colors and textures these days but only two things matter: condoms should be made of polyurethane or latex (which are way more reliable than animal tissue condoms) and if you are using the male condom, they should fit snugly. (Yes, they do come in different lengths, widths, and thicknesses.)
Inspection: Condom packages show an expiration date. If a condom is past the date, is ripped, or looks dry, brittle, stiff, or sticky, it shouldn't be used. Keeping a few spares on hand is a good idea in case one rips while being opened or put on.
Handling: Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent breakage or leakage. To open, the package should be torn gently on the side (not with teeth or scissors, which could tear the condom itself) and pulled out slowly.
Choosing the right lubricant: Using a pre-lubricated condom, or applying a small amount of water-based lubricant - such as K-Y jelly or Astroglide - inside and outside the condom can help prevent rips. Oil-based lubricants (like Vaseline or other petroleum jellies, body lotions, mineral or vegetable oils) should not be used with latex condoms because they can cause the latex to break down, reducing or eliminating the condom's effectiveness.
Putting a condom on correctly: The condom should be put on before intercourse begins. 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 down the entire length of the penis until it reaches the base. Be sure to smooth out any air bubbles along the way. The condom should fit snugly so that it won't slide off during intercourse. If you start to put on a condom inside-out, don't use it - throw it away. You'll know it's inside out because it won't roll down the length of the penis easily.
Removing a condom: Immediately after ejaculation, the penis should be slowly withdrawn before it loses its erection. The base of the condom should be held against the penis to avoid slippage or spilling any semen as it's withdrawn. The condom should be wrapped in tissue and thrown away in the garbage (not in the toilet, or it may clog).
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