What are condoms?

Why use a condom?

• Prevents STIs: Condoms significantly reduce the risk of most STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Read more about STIs
• Prevents Pregnancy: When used correctly, condoms are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. For extra protection, you can combine them with another contraceptive method, like the pill or an IUD.

How to prevent pregnancy

Where do you buy condoms?

You can buy condoms at:

• Pharmacies 
• Botika’s
• Supermarkets 
• Sex shops
• Fundashon Famia Plania

Sometimes people think buying condoms is embarrassing. Especially if you must ask for condoms that are located behind the counter. But there is nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, you should be proud. Your initiative is protecting you and your sexual partner from STIs or an unwanted pregnancy.

Condoms are also available at the Center for Sexual Health Curaçao (CSGC).

Tips for keeping condoms

• Store condoms in a cool, dark place. Like a bedside drawer or your wallet
• Don’t put condoms in the fridge and keep them out of the sun
• Keep condoms away from keys or anything else that’s sharp. That could damage them

Advantages and disadvantages of condoms

Advantages:

• Using a condom reduces the risk of an STI 
• You don’t have to go and see a doctor first
• It’s not something you have to think about unless you’re going to have sex (but make sure you’ve always got some with you)
• You can buy condoms in lots of places
• They might help you have sex for longer before you have an orgasm
• No semen gets into the vagina or anus

Disadvantages:

• If you don’t put a condom on properly, it could tear or slip off. Then it won’t protect you properly against STIs or pregnancy 
• Some people don’t like having to stop during sex to put one on
• You need one every time you have sex
• Some people feel less during sex