Sexually Transmitted Infections
Male and Female Condoms
The only true safe sex is no sex at all...but "safer" sex can be achieved by using protection. Both male and female condoms are still the best protection (short of abstinence) against sexually transmitted infections and HIV.
You can practice safer sex by always using condoms no matter what or by being tested for STI/HIV and then being mutually monogamous - that is, you don't have sex with anyone except your partner, and your partner has sex with no one but you. Consider the following suggestions:
- Use a condom for all types of sexual activity, at all times with all partners.
- Talk to your partner about safer sex, STI/HIV testing, and the boundaries of your sexual relationship.
- Engage in sexual activities that do not necessarily include intercourse.
- If you have any suspicion that you or your partner might be infected, practice safer sex until you are absolutely sure.
- Do not share needles for drugs.
Masturbation alone or with a partner is safe. Avoid any exchange of blood or body fluids, especially if there are any openings in the skin.
Oral sex is safe only if both partners are free of STI and HIV.
Don't share sex toys! Wash them with soap and water after each use.
Learn More about Male Condoms
How to use a female condom
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Carefully remove the condom from its package. |
One end of the condom will have an opening for the penis to enter. This end will remain outside the vagina. |
Squeeze the flexible inner ring at the closed end of the condom. |
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Some women find it comfortable to insert the condom while standing with one leg raised, |
or you may find it more comfortable to insert the female condom while squatting or lying down. |
While squeezing the ring, insert the closed end of the condom into your vagina. |
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Placing your index finger inside of the condom, gently push the inner ring into your vagina as far as it will go. Be careful not to twist the condom. |
The outer ring of the condom should remain outside of the vagina. Placing lubrication inside of the condom may help keep it in place during sex. |
Make sure his penis enters inside the female condom, not to one side. The female condom should not be used with a male condom. |
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When removing the condom after sex, twist the outer ring so that no semen leaks out during removal. |
Throw the used female condom into the garbage. Do not flush it down the toilet. Do not reuse the condom. |
Learn More about Female Condoms
