How to put on a condom

Putting on a condom correctly

1. Open carefully
   Open the condom packet gently with your fingers—no teeth, scissors, or sharp nails! You don’t want to rip the condom.
2. Check the right side
   Make sure the condom is rolled the right way before putting it on. Hold the edge between your thumb and index finger and gently feel which way it unrolls. The rolled-up side should be on the outside. Pinch the tip of the condom with your fingers to remove air – this helps prevent it from breaking.
3. Pinch & Roll
   Pinch the tip of the condom (this leaves space for semen) and place it on the erect penis. While still pinching the tip of the condom, use your other hand to roll it all the way down the penis. If it doesn’t roll down, start over with a new condom.
4. After sex
   Once you have had an orgasm, pull out before the penis goes soft. Hold the condom at the base while pulling out to keep it from slipping off. Tie a knot in it and throw it in the bin (not the toilet!).

Tips for using condoms 

Practice makes perfect

• If you’re new to using condoms, practice beforehand. Try putting one on your own penis or a banana. You can also practice on a friend’s two fingers (with their consent)

Choosing and handling condoms

• Use high-quality condoms with a CE mark (Europe) or FDA approval (United States)
• Always check the expiration date – expired condoms can break and are unsafe
• Open the condom carefully – never use teeth, scissors, or sharp objects
• Pinch the tip of the condom with your thumb and index finger while rolling it on. A handy trick is to twist the tip to ensure there’s room for semen
• Only roll the condom down when the penis is fully erect for a proper fit

Using lubricants safely

• Choose water-based or silicone-based lubricants—others can damage the condom and make it unsafe
• Avoid creams, body lotions, oils, or gels on your penis, hands, or body when using a condom

During and after sex

• Use a new condom if sex lasts longer than 15 minutes
• Withdraw your penis immediately after orgasm
• Hold the base of the condom while pulling out to prevent it from slipping off
• If you want to continue having sex after orgasm, use a new condom
• Never use more than one condom at a time – a single condom is safest when used correctly

Safe sex practices

• If switching between vaginal and anal sex, always use a new condom to reduce the risk of infections