Condom and Safe Sex Facts

The Bare Facts of Condoms

Statistics show that one of the major reasons why a condom fails is because the user puts it on upside down or the condom is damaged while opening the package. Here are some useful facts to keep in mind:

  • There is a right way and a wrong way to wear a condom. If it doesn’t unroll smoothly from the rim on the outside, it’s upside down.
  • There are basically three sizes: standard, contoured, and large (2 mm larger than standard)
  • Only latex condoms provide the best protection against STDs.
  • Condoms have a shelf life: three years with spermicide, five years without spermicide. Make sure you check the expiration date.
  • The worst place to carry a condom is in your back pocket; a shirt pocket or protective case is better.
  • Never open the package with your teeth, use the tear strip.
  • Leave room at the tip. If there isn’t a “reservoir end,” squeeze the tip.
  • Use only water-based lubricants, anything else will damage the latex.
  • If you feel a condom break, stop intercourse, and withdraw immediately.

How to Use a Condom

Believe it or not, there really are some important things to remember when using a condom:

  • Use a new condom before each sex act.
  • Use only latex condoms or our new polyisoprene synthetic condoms. (Lambskin provides no protection from STDs.)
  • Open the package carefully. Never bite it or use scissors.
  • Put on a condom when the penis is erect, but before sexual penetration.
  • Hold the condom by the tip and unroll it so it covers the entire erect penis.
  • If the condom doesn’t have a “reservoir end,” squeeze tip of condom to remove air.
  • If the penis is uncircumcised, pull the foreskin back before putting on the condom.
  • After ejaculation, hold the condom close to the base of the penis and carefully withdraw.
  • Immediately throw away used condoms.
  • If you feel a condom break while having intercourse, stop and withdraw immediately.

Visit us online or call 1-800-883-3434 for details about our condoms and how to use them.

For more information about STDs, talk with your doctor.