Safe Sex
- 3 min read
It’s A Wrap: Why And How To Use A Condom
Worried about getting sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections? Better safe than sorry.
Why Use A Condom?
Did you know that sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) are on the rise in Canada? It’s true, and sexually active young people are at the highest risk of getting them. Sex can be fun, but chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, syphilis, HPV and HIV? Not so much. Using condoms correctly and consistently every time can help protect you – and your partner – from both STBBIs and unwanted pregnancy.
How To Put On (And Take Off) A Condom
- Carefully open and remove condom from wrapper
- With the roll outside, squeeze condom tip
- Place on erect penis
- Roll down to the base
- After orgasm, pull out before penis goes soft
- Hold open end to avoid spillage when pulling out
- Throw used condom in garbage
Condom Dos And Don’ts
DO use a condom every time you have sex
DO read the instructions
DO check the expiration date
DO look for tears or defects
DO use water or silicone-based lubricants if needed
DO keep them in a cool, dry place
DO NOT store condoms in your wallet or where they can be damaged by heat or friction
DO NOT use with oil-based lubricants, oils or lotions
DO NOT use more than one condom at a time
DO NOT use a condom more than once
DO NOT flush used condom down toilet
Safe Sex Can Lead To Great Sex!
Talk to your healthcare provider or sexual health educator about preventing, testing and treating STBBIs.
Sources:
Information for Teens: Staying Healthy and Preventing STDs, 2017. Centers for disease control and prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/life-stages-populations/stdfact-teens.htm
Right way to use a male condom, 2016. Centers for disease control and prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/condomeffectiveness/male-condom-use.html
