Using condoms

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Make sure you;

• Check the use by date when you buy condoms
• Always open a condom wrapper carefully, in good light, so that you won't tear the condom
• Pinch the end of the condom and roll it carefully all the way down the shaft of the erect penis to make sure it is on safely
• Use plenty of lubricant, especially for anal sex because sex without lubricants may cause the condom to tear
• Do not use oil based lubricants like petroleum jelly, moisturiser, massage or cooking oils. They can weaken the latex
• Only use water based lubricants like KY, Muko, Lubrafax or Wet Stuff
• Do not use spit as a lubricant
• Always make sure the penis is withdrawn before the erection is lost so that the condom does not slip off
• Hold the condom in place while withdrawing the penis to prevent spills
• Condoms are designed to be used once only. When finished, wrap used condoms in toilet paper and put them in the rubbish bin, not down the toilet
• Do not use two condoms at once
• Only use well known brands and beware of gimmick condoms that could be of low quality and tear.

Published by Public Health Division
Victorian Government Department of Human Services
Melbourne Victoria
July 2001
Copyright State of Victoria 2001
For further information, contact:
Health Protection Services
Department of Human Services
GPO Box 4057
Melbourne 3001
Telephone: (03) 9637 4000

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Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 9 Jun 2009