The male (external) condom is a thin latex rubber or polyurethane (a type of soft plastic) covering which is rolled onto an erect (hard) penis before having sex.
How does it protect against STIs?
Worn on the penis during vaginal, anal or oral sex, the male (external) condom provides a barrier which catches the guy’s semen and stops the transfer of bodily fluids between partners.
Using a water-based lube on the outside of a condom makes it slippery, and also helps stop the condom from breaking – particularly when used for anal sex.
Condoms are the best way of preventing most STIs; however they don’t always prevent STIs that are spread through close skin-to-skin contact.
Where can I get male (external) condoms?
- Family Planning NSW clinics
- Sexual health clinics
- Supermarkets
- Pharmacies / chemists
- Vending machines in some public toilets
- Online stores
The average speed guys ejaculate is 45kms/hour!
Tips
- The condom should be put on an erect (hard) penis before any contact between the penis and partner’s genitals, mouth or anus.
- There are many brands, sizes and flavours of condoms, so find some that are comfortable and enjoyable for you and your partner.
- Never put two condoms on at once, as they will be more likely to break.
- Each condom can be used once only.
- Use a new condom when changing between vaginal, anal and oral sex.
- If the condom breaks call Family Planning NSW Talkline 1800 658 886 for advice on STI testing and emergency contraception.
Always ask for consent from your partner before you have sex.
Find more information about condoms as well as answers to common questions here.
How to use a male (external) condom
- Gain consent (don’t forget to ask!).
- Check the expiry date.
- Carefully open the condom packet (do not use your teeth or scissors).
- Check the condom is the correct way up.
- Pinch the tip of the condom with one hand (this removes the air and makes space for the semen/cum).
- While still pinched, place the condom on the head of the penis when it’s erect (hard).
- With your other hand roll the condom down to the base of penis.
- Put some water-based lube on the outside of the condom if you like (recommended during anal sex).
- You are now ready to have sex – check the condom doesn’t break or slip down during sex – if this happens, stop and put a new one on.
- After sex, while the penis is still hard, carefully withdraw the penis while holding the base of the condom.
- Remove the condom slowly so it doesn’t spill or turn inside out.
- Tie the condom in a knot to keep the fluid inside it.
- Wrap the condom in a tissue and put it in the bin (not down the toilet).
