A condom is one of the best ways to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). But condoms are only effective if you know how to use them properly, so I’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to use a condom. The following instructions are only for the male condom; I’ll provide a step-by-step guide for the female condom in another post. 

Step 1: Opening the condom

Before opening the condom, check the expiry date. An expired condom is likely to break. If the condom is not expired then it’s safe to use. Also check that there are no holes in the condom package. You can do this by running your fingers down the middle of the condom package to see if a bubble forms. If the condom forms a bubble (indicating there there is no hole in it) then it’s safe to use. Once checked, open the condom by tearing it along one of the sides with your fingers (as shown in the image).

DO NOT:

• Use your teeth
• Use a knife
• Use scissors

Using anything sharp can tear the condom. Click here to find out other mistakes you shouldn’t make when using a condom.

Step 2: Rolling the condom on (part 1)

For the condom to fit on properly, the penis needs to be erect. Pinch the top of the condom (to get rid of any air bubbles). Make sure that the condom is not inside out. The condom should resemble a little hat, with the rim facing outside (and not turned inside). If the condom is inside out, simply throw it away and start over.

Step 3: Rolling the condom on (part 2)

Roll the condom down all the way down the shaft of the penis to the base. At this point you can put on a bit of lubrication (which can help prevent the condom breaking). Just make sure you don’t use oil, lotion or petroleum jelly (Vaseline). The safest lubrication to use is usually found in the condom section in a store. But you can also find out from any health care practitioner what safe lubricants are available to keep you and your partner safe.

Step 4: Removing the condom

After ejaculation, the penis should be withdrawn while the penis is still erect (so the condom doesn’t slip off and bodily fluids don’t slip out). Hold the base of the penis when withdrawing so that the condom doesn’t slip off. Carefully roll the condom up the shaft of the penis to remove it.

Step 5: Discarding the condom

Once the condom has been removed, tie a knot to the open end, roll it in a bit of tissue and throw it in the bin.

DO NOT:

• Flush the condom down the toilet (this could cause the toilet to block)
• Throw the condom on the floor

The best and safest place for a used condom is the bin.

When used correctly, a condom is 99.9% effective! Be safe and use a condom every time Choma.

Choma, if you have more questions about condoms and STIs (or if you or a friend just needs advice) you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).