How to put on a condom
- Check: There are 3 things you need to look out for:
- Expiration date
- Rips or holes in the pack
- A BSI (heart-shaped) or CE mark on the package. This means that the condom has been tested for durability
- Feel: Before opening, feel for the rib of the condom inside the packaging. Push it to the side so that it doesn't get damaged when you tear the packaging open. Check which way to roll it down before it touches the penis. Never flip the condom if you've tried to put in on the wrong way around.
- Pinch & Roll: Make sure the condom is put on the penis as soon as it is erect (hard), before it goes near anyone's mouth, vagina or anus. Pinch the tip of the condom between your thumb and forefinger to get rid of any air and allow for a space at the top for cum to collect in. Use your other hand to roll the condom down the penis all the way to the base.
- Remove: When you are finished, withdraw the penis before it gets soft, holding the condom at the base until the penis is withdrawn from your partner’s mouth, vagina or anus, and then take it off, wrap it in toilet paper and throw it in the bin (not down the toilet as condoms don't flush).
- Remember:
- Never reuse a condom.
- Never use two condoms together as this increases the chances of them splitting or tearing.
- Using lubricant is a great idea, but only if it's water-based. Other products such as moisturiser, baby or massage oil, sun cream, etc. have oil in them and will damage latex condoms, making them much likely to split.
- Condoms are free on the NHS for young people, and available from different outlets such as your doctor, pharmacies, clinics or local social services.
