Key points at a glance
🛡️ Protection during sex
Condoms protect against HIV and reduce the risk of various sexually transmitted infections.
📏 The right size
A condom should fit snugly so that it doesn’t slip off so easily.
💧 Choosing the right lubricant
Oil-free lubricant can help to reduce friction and protect the condom.
✅ Use correctly
Tested quality, careful opening and correct fitting are important for reliable protection.
What is a condom?
A condom is rolled onto the erect penis before having sex. It is usually made of latex. For people with a latex allergy, there are condoms made of polyurethane.
Condoms protect against HIV and can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis, gonorrhoea, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
For a condom to provide reliable protection, it must fit well and be used correctly. A standard size is suitable for most penises. However, smaller and larger sizes are also available.
Using condoms correctly
For a condom to provide reliable protection, it should fit well, be undamaged and be used correctly. Before having sex, make sure you bear the following points in mind:
- Check quality: Use condoms of certified quality, for example those bearing the CE mark and a DIN test number. Also check the use-by date.
- Open the packaging carefully: It’s best to use your fingers for this. Knives, scissors, teeth or sharp fingernails can damage the condom.
- How to put on a condom correctly: Only put the condom on once the penis is erect. Pull back the foreskin and place the condom over the glans, with the ring facing outwards.
- Press the air out of the tip: Squeeze the tip of the condom with two fingers. Then roll the condom all the way down over the penis.
- Only use one condom: Wearing two condoms on top of one another can cause them to rub against each other. This makes them more likely to tear or slip off.
- Check the seat from time to time: During sex, check every now and then to make sure the condom is still in the right place.
- Hold on after ejaculation: Pull the penis out whilst it is still erect. Hold the condom firmly at the base to prevent it from slipping off.
Condoms and lubricants
Lubricant can help to reduce friction and protect the condom. You should use plenty of oil-free lubricant, particularly during anal sex and if your vagina is dry.
It is important to note that:
- Only use oil-free lubricant: Products containing oil, such as Vaseline, massage oil or body lotion, can damage condoms.
- First the condom, then the lubricant: First, roll the condom down over the penis. Then apply the lubricant to the outside of the condom.
- Do not apply lubricant under the condom: If it is applied to the penis beforehand, the condom may slip off more easily.
Did the condom break or slip off?
Even if a condom fits well and is used correctly, it may occasionally break or slip off. In such cases, the risk of HIV infection can still be significantly reduced.
Following such a ‘safer sex’ mishap, a PEP It could be one option. It is designed to prevent HIV from taking hold in the body following possible exposure.
Where can I get condoms?
You can get condoms in lots of places. These include:
- Pharmacies and supermarkets
- Pharmacies
- Sex shops
- Condom vending machines
Condoms and lubricant are also frequently available in venues for men seeking sex with men. These include, for example, saunas, darkroom bars and sex cinemas.
Frequently asked questions
How does a condom provide protection?
Condoms protect against HIV and can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis, gonorrhoea, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Which condom size is right for you?
The condom should fit snugly and not slip off. A standard size is suitable for most penises. However, smaller and larger sizes are also available.
How do I put a condom on properly?
Only put the condom on once the penis is erect. Squeeze the air out of the reservoir tip and unroll the condom fully. Only ever use one condom at a time.
Which lubricant is suitable for use with condoms?
If you’re having anal sex or if your vagina is dry, you should use plenty of oil-free lubricant. Oily products such as Vaseline, massage oil or body lotion can damage the condom.
What should you do if a condom breaks or slips off?
Even then, the risk of HIV infection can still be significantly reduced. Following such a ‘safer sex’ mishap, PEP may be an option.
