Condoms

If used correctly both male and female condoms will help to protect against HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, cervical cancer and unwanted pregnancy.

The male condom
The male condom is available in a variety of different styles, shapes and sizes, some have a hypoallergenic lubricant and ranges include flavoured, ribbed, flared, contoured, extra fine and extra strong. Most condoms are made from hypoallergenic natural rubber latex but you can buy ones made from polyurethane if you're allergic to latex.

Which type you choose is dependant on the sort of sexual activity you like and engage in; at UNISEX we recommend certain condoms for vaginal sex, oral sex and anal sex, and we feel it is important that you have a choice of condoms to try out for these different sexual activities. We offer a Condomscheme, where you can buy good quality condoms at 5 for £1! You can get these from the drop-in at Sussex Uni (Falmer House). In addition, all Brighton Uni and Sussex Uni Student Union shops sell condoms at 3 for £1.

Research has shown that using a water based lubricant with condoms is the best way to prevent condoms from splitting. Always use plenty of water based lubricant for anal sex and for vaginal sex, when extra lubricant is preferred. Sexual intercourse will be more pleasurable if both of you are well lubricated and will increase sensitivity by increasing heat exchange through the condom. Gel charging, which involves placing a small drop of lubricant (the size of a small pea) on the inside of the unrolled condom before you put it on, will also increase sensitivity and help to give a more natural feel. (However, don't use too much or the condom may slip off)

Never use oil based products such as baby oil or Vaseline because they severely weaken rubber and may cause the condom to split. It is worth remembering that some foodstuffs such as margarine, chocolate and cream also contain oil and shouldn't be used with condoms. At UNISEX we have a choice of water based lubricants for you to try.

Spermicidal lubricant is less widely used in condom manufacture now. This is because there is growing evidence that spemicide damages the cells of the vaginal and anal wall making it easier for infections to be transmitted. Many people find that they are allergic to spemicide.

A condom can sometimes split or slip off, so check it now and then during sex and keep a spare one handy!!

How do I put a condom on?

1. Tear along one side of the foil making sure that you do not damage the condom with sharp fingernails or jewellery as you squeeze the condom out.
2. Put the condom on when the penis is erect, but before any pre-cum is released.
3. If you have one, pull the foreskin back over the head of the penis before you put the condom on. It should sit behind the head of the penis fairly easily when it is erect.
4. Hold the condom teat between the thumb and finger making sure the condom is the right way for unrolling. This stops any air being caught the teat otherwise the condom could burst.
5. Using your other hand unroll the condom down the entire length of the penis, while still holding the teat. Ensure the condom does not come off during sex.
6. After ejaculation make sure you hold the base of the condom in place as you withdraw, only when the penis is completely withdrawn can you remove the condom.
7. After use make sure you tie a knot in the condom, wrap it up and put it in the bin. Don't flush it down the loo.

The female condom
The female condom can be inserted into the vagina several hours before sex and removed safely afterwards. It is made from polyurethane and is non-spermicidally lubricated, making it more suitable for use by women who are allergic to spermicides or rubber. You can buy them for 75p from the UNISEX drop-in.

How do I put a condom on?

1. Hold the 'closed' end of the female condom (the tip), feeling the ring inside it.
2. Squeeze the ring between your fingers, in preparation for insertion.
3. With your other hand, open up the lips of your vagina.
4. Now push the squeezed ring inside, and up to the top end of your vagina. There's a diagram on the leaflet that shows you how to do this.
5. Next, put two fingers inside the female condom and use them to push the inner ring as far into the vagina as it will go - so the whole vaginal cavity is snugly lined.
6. Ensure that the outer ring now covers the opening of your vagina. The top of this ring should be approximately over your clitoris something that a number of women have reported favourably on.
7. Guide the man's penis in through this outer ring - so he is inside the condom. Take care it is easy to mistakenly put the penis outside the condom.
8. After sex, remove the female condom by twisting the outer ring and pulling it out gently.
9. Wrap and dispose of it (in a bin). Do not try and use it again.

ALWAYS:

Keep condoms cool
Check the expiry date
Check for the kite mark or CE mark
Open the packet carefully to avoid damaging the condom
Make sure it's not inside out
Use a condom each time you fuck
Use a water-based lube for anal sex or gel charging (placing a small amount of lubricant inside a flared or contoured condom to increase sensitivity for the wearer and prevent the condom from splitting)