Aim: How can properly using a condom lower the risk of pregnancy and infection?
Class notes: Using a condom
Condoms can provide good protection from pregnancy and infection when used correctly and consistently during vaginal, anal or oral sex.
How condoms prevent HIV or other Sexually Transmitted Infection: Condoms block the discharge of semen. It protects the wearers partner from semen, which can carry the infection. Condoms also protect the wearer from a partner’s body fluids which can carry infection. Condoms made from sheep membranes do not provide the same degree of protection as latex condoms.
When buying condoms, people should:
*Make sure the condom is made of latex
*Make sure the condom has FDA approval. The box must say the condoms are for “STD/STI prevention” or “disease prevention”. Some novelty condoms (glow in the dark) are not meant for disease or pregnancy prevention.
*Check the expiration date on the condom package.
When storing condoms:
*Do not expose the condoms to heat, sunlight, or ozone
*Do not store in a wallet, pocket or car glove compartment
When condoms don’t work:
The rate of breakage ranges from .6% to 6% during vaginal intercourse. Most condom failures probably result from incorrect use. Condoms can be broken or damaged during sexual activity by:
-Being torn by fingernails, jewelry or other sharp objects during unwrapping.
-Being ripped or broken because of pulling instead of rolling onto the penis.
-Being pulled on too tightly with no room left at the tip.
-Leaving air at the tip of the condom or having air bubbbles in the condom.
-Not holding the base of the condom when removing the erect penis from the vagina (the condom could roll up and it's contents spill into the woman's vagina).
-Use of oil based creams or lubricants.
When using male condoms people should:
-Open the package carefully.
-Determine which way the condom unrolls but do not unroll the condom before putting it on.
-Hold the tip of the condom to squeeze out air and leave some extra room for the semen.
-Put the condom on the end of the erect penis before there is any contact between the penis and the vagina, anus or mouth. While still holding the tip, the condom is unrolled onto the penis all the way down to the pubic hair. Users should not pull at the condom while unrolling it.
-Using a water-based lubricant can prevent friction and possible breakage but is not necessary.
-After ejaculation, the wearer should hold the base of the condom before removing the penis. Remove the penis while it is still erect.
-Move the condom away from the partner and remove gently.
-Dispose of the condom correctly; do not flush a condom.