CONDOMS and LUBE

Using condoms is as much about protecting you as it is about protecting your partner(s).

Condoms, when used correctly, offer the best protection against transmission of most Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV.

Condoms come in different sizes. The width measurement of the base of a condom is usually shown in millimetres on a box of condoms. Try different sizes to find the one that fits you best.

Condoms can be latex or non-latex (polyurethane). For those who may not be comfortable using latex condoms, it may be useful to try a non-latex condom. They can be sensitive and pleasure-enhancing, and are also ideal for those who are allergic or sensitive to latex.

Good quality condoms display a kite mark and/or CE mark.

Condoms go out of date; always check the expiry date.

Lubrication (Lube)

Using lube is a great way to maximise your (and your partners) pleasure during sex.

When using lube with latex condoms, use only water-based or silicone-based lube, and use plenty of it.

Latex condom-friendly lubes include: ‘Wet Stuff’, ‘Pasante TLC’, ‘Liquid Silk’, ‘K-Y Jelly’, and many more.

Put lube outside and all over the condom, and in and around the anus. Apply more lube during long periods of sex.

Never use saliva/spit as a lubricant; this increases the risk of a condom splitting because it dries quickly.

 

Never put lube on the penis before putting the condom on. This can increase the risk of the condom slipping off.

Oil based lubricants such as vaseline, baby oil, and massage oil will damage latex condoms and should never be used.

(Note: If using non-latex condoms (polyurethane) oil based lubricant can be used with these.)

Using CONDOMS

Using condoms during masturbation is a great way to practice putting condoms on correctly.

• Ensure penis is hard before putting on a condom.
• Open the packet (with your hands), being careful with nails and jewellery to avoid damaging the condom.
• Check that the roll of the condom is on the outside, and hold the tip (closed end) of the condom, squeezing out the air to make room for semen.
• Unroll the condom over your penis all the way to the base.
• Apply plenty of water-based or silicone-based lube on the outside of the condom and in and around the anus.
• During sex, check to make sure the condom is still on correctly..
• If you are having penetrative sex for more than 20 minutes, the risk of condom failure increases, so it’s advisable to change the condom if you are having sex for longer than this.
• As you are pulling out, hold onto the base of the condom so that it doesn't slip off .

TIPS when using CONDOMS

You can reduce the risk of condoms splitting or slipping off by following these simple steps:

• Only use each condom once.
• Never use two condoms together. This can cause friction between both condoms increasing the risk of them splitting or slipping off.
• When opening a condom do not use teeth and be careful of nails and jewellery.
• If you put a condom on incorrectly (e.g. inside out), throw it away and use a new condom
• Store condoms in a cool dry place; condoms stored for long periods in pockets or wallets can be damaged over time.
• The risk of condom failure increases after about 20 minutes of penetrative sex, so it’s advisable to check the condom during sex, and replace it with a new one if you are having sex for longer than 20 minutes.
• Never use saliva/spit as a lubricant; this increases the risk of a condom splitting because it dries quickly.
• When using lube, use only water-based or silicone-based lube and use plenty of it (such as ‘Wet Stuff’, ‘Pasante TLC’, ‘Liquid Silk’, or ‘KY’).
• Put lube outside and all over the condom, and in and around the anus. Apply more lube during long periods of sex.
• Never put lube on the penis before putting the condom on. This can increase the risk of the condom slipping off.
• Try flavoured condoms for oral sex. Some flavoured condoms should not be used for penetrative sex; always check the packet for details.

CONDOM Mishaps

If you feel you have been exposed to HIV through unprotected sex, or if a condom tears or slips off during anal sex, there is a treatment option available that may prevent HIV infection.

Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) involves taking a combination of at least two anti-HIV drugs for four weeks and aims to prevent HIV replicating itself in the body.

PEP must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of exposure to HIV, but the earlier the treatment starts the better.

PEP is only available by prescription from Hospital Accident and Emergency (A&E) Departments, and some sexual health and STI clinics. Not everyone will be prescribed PEP. There are guidelines for prescribing and each person is assessed based on the information provided in relation to the potential risk of exposure to HIV.

If you and/or your partner find yourselves in such a situation, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Click here for more information on PEP, and where to go for advice and assistance.

Free CONDOM Packs

The volunteer peer action group, Johnny, distributes safer sex packs (supplied by GMHS) at gay social venues throughout Dublin on a weekly basis. The ‘Get It On’ packs contain Pasante dual-pleasure combined condom and lube sachets. You will find the free packs in Pantibar, The George, The Dragon, Outhouse LGBT Community Centre, the Gay Men’s Health Service, and a range of other venues. Pick one up today and enjoy safer pleasurable sex!