A condom is a thin covering that fits over the penis. It catches semen that comes out of your penis during sex. Rubber (latex) or polyurethane condoms help protect you from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They can also help prevent pregnancy.
Here's how to use it: Open the condom wrapper and place the condom on the tip of the penis. Squeeze the tip of the condom to remove air and create a space to collect semen after ejaculation. Roll the condom down to the base of the penis.
In addition:
-
If you use a lubricant, make sure it’s water based. Don’t use petroleum jelly, oil, or hand cream. They can make the condom break.
-
Use a new condom every time you have sex.
-
You can buy condoms in a drugstore or supermarket. Keep them wrapped until you use them.
-
To prevent pregnancy, condoms work best if you use them with spermicide, also available in the drugstore or supermarket.
-
Keep condoms on hand. Store them in a cool place. Don’t keep them in your wallet or in your car.
Featured in
Related Articles
Helping Your Teen Cope with Chronic Illness
Your teen has recently been diagnosed with a chronic illness. There are things you can do to help you and your teen cope.
Sleep Deprivation in Teens: A Common Problem
Teens on average need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep at night. But most don't get the amount of sleep they need. School, friends, homework, activities, television, and the computer may all have a higher priority for a teen than sleep. Sleep deprivation can have serious consequences for a teen's health and well-being.
Determining Body Mass Index for Children and Teens
Although it is not a perfect measure, BMI gives a fairly accurate evaluation of how much of your child or teen's body is made up of fat.
For Teens: Deciding About Sex
Making the decision to have sex is a complex choice. In school and around friends, you may be feeling pressure about it. But before you make a decision to have sex, make sure you think about what’s at risk.
