Safer Sex

What is safer sex?

Safer sex is any sexual activity that doesn’t exchange body fluids. In other words, neither you nor your partner must come into contact with semen, blood or vaginal secretions. Whatever contact you have must be without exchange of bodily fluids.

Safer sex allows you to obtain pleasure without exposing yourself to the risk of infection.

Male Condoms

Facts about the condom

  • If used properly, the condom will provide protection against some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
  • The condom acts as a barrier to prevent the exchange of body fluids such as semen (cum, break) and vaginal secretions.

The right way to use a male condom

  1. Always use a latex condom. 
  2. Never keep a condom in a warm place, like your wallet, your pocket or the glove compartment of your car.
  3. Make sure the condom is lubricated or use a water-based lubricant (KY Jelly) with it.
  4. NEVER USE AN OIL OR PETROLEUM-BASED LUBRICANT.
  5. Open the package carefully, and do not use your teeth to open it.
  6. Put a condom on an erect penis.
  7. Hold the end of the condom tightly while rolling it on, leaving space at the tip for the semen.
  8. Squeeze out air by smoothing out the condom as you roll it on.
  9. Roll the condom all the way to the base of the penis, so it stays on.
  10. After discharging, the condom must be removed while the penis is still somewhat erect. The top (rim) of the condom should be held firmly while withdrawing to avoid spilling the semen.
  11. Tie a knot in the used condom and throw it away carefully.
  12. Unused condoms should be stored carefully out of reach of children who may mistake them for balloons.
  13. Never use a condom more than once.

Female Condoms

The right way to use a female condom

  • Always store condoms in a cool place until ready for use.
  • The open end (outer ring) covers the area around the opening of the vagina.
  • The closed end (inner ring) is used for insertion and to hold the condom in place.

To insert a female condom:

  1. Hold inner ring between thumb and middle finger
  2. Spread legs or squat.
  3. Squeeze the ring until the rim meets.
  4. Then insert the condom as far as it will go - it is in the right position when you cannot feel it.
  5. Push up to ensure that the condom is not twisted.
  6. Make sure the outer ring covers the mouth of the vagina.
  7. You may need to guide the penis into the condom.
  8. Water-based lubricant can be used as needed.

To remove a female condom

  1. Squeeze, twist and pull gently the top of the condom.
  2. Be careful not to spill semen. 
  3. Dispose of condoms responsibly. Do not dispose of the condom in the toilet.
  4. Condoms should be used once only.
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