Condoms are a barrier that prevents skin to skin contact and the transfer of body fluids. Condoms should be used every time you have sex. There are two types of condoms:
Did you know that condoms can protect you from both unplanned pregnancy (for types of sex that can result in pregnancy) and sexually transmissible infections (STIs)?
When they’re used correctly, they’re over 98% effective but it’s easy to make mistakes that could result in condoms slipping, breaking, or coming off during sex.
To protect yourself and your partner from STIs it’s time to brush up on your condom skills and follow the dos and don’ts of how to use them. Getting to know how to use condoms is all part of looking after your sexual health and putting your health and wellbeing first.
Using condoms correctly is important so that they keep you safe from STIs and unplanned pregnancy. Follow these steps to use a condom. It’s a good idea to practice, so you feel comfortable using them in the moment.
You can buy condoms from your local supermarket, chemists or pharmacies, convenience stores, petrol stations. They’re also available for free at Youth Health Centres, Sexual Health Clinics and some GPs. But if you’d prefer something more discrete or are looking for a bigger range, be sure to look online and get them delivered.
A lot of university campuses and some health services have condoms for free. If you’re under 30, you can even get condoms for free through Family Planning NSW’s Freedom Condom project. It’s a new service that makes it easy for young people to get free condoms across the state. Simply head to a clinic or service that displays the Freedom Condom posters and ask for your own Freedom Condom card.
If you use condoms correctly, then the chance of them breaking is low. If a condom your using does break, don’t worry, following these steps.
It’s recommended that you get an STI test every 6-12 months, when you change partners, or if you show any symptoms.
Bonus tip: If you’re sharing sex toys (such as vibrators or dildos) it’s a good idea to use condoms on these too, as sexual fluids and STIs can easily be transmitted between partners.
Do you have questions about condoms or sexual health? Ask our Sexual Health Nurse today!
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