WHAT IT IS A latex or
polyurethane sheath fitting snuggly over a penis or dildo or—in the
case of the “female condom”—into the vagina. Science shows that condoms
are the most reliable prevention tool. They’re used during penetrative
sex to prevent passing HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases
(STDs). Condoms can also prevent pregnancy by blocking semen from
entering the vagina.
BUYER’S GUIDE Male
condoms are easy to find and inexpensive to buy at pharmacies and
convenience stores. They come in a range of styles, from ribbed and
flavored to contoured and microthin. Check the expiration date! Use
condoms with a water-based, as opposed to oil-based, lubricant, as
these corrode the latex, defeating their protective purpose.
USER’S GUIDE Start
gently: Don’t open the package with your teeth, or you’ll risk tearing
the condom. Instructions for the male condom: Wait till the penis is
erect, and then pinch the tip of the condom to squeeze the air out,
leaving room for ejaculate. Unroll the rest of the condom down the
shaft of the penis. If the penis is uncircumcised, push back the
foreskin before putting on the condom. When removing, hold the base of
the condom to prevent spillage of ejaculate. Click here for more about
the female condom. http://www.avert.org/femcond.htm
INSIDE A CONDOM
2%
The breakage rate of condoms. INSIDE THE BEDROOM A study
of serodiscordant couples found that among 123 couples who used condoms
regularly, none of the uninfected partners got HIV. In contrast, among
122 couples who used condoms only now and then, 12 of the HIV negative
partners became infected.
