Condoms

What are condoms?

Condoms are thin rubber barriers which are rolled onto a man’s penis before having sex.

How do condoms work?

Condoms stop sperm, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV passing between sexual partners. They collect the man’s sperm inside the condom so that it does not enter the woman’s vagina.

If used correctly every time you have sex, condoms are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. However in an average year, 15% of women will get pregnant when using condoms for contraception.

How do I use a condom?

Condoms come with instructions on the packet. Your doctor or sexual health nurse can also give you information about how to use a condom.

You should always use a water-based lubricant such as KY Jelly when using condoms, especially during anal sex. This helps prevent the condom from breaking.

Where can I get condoms?

You can get condoms from your GP or sexual health clinic. These may be free – ask your doctor or nurse. To find a GP (doctor) clinic or sexual health clinic in Hawke’s Bay, click here.

You can also buy condoms from the supermarket, dairies, petrol stations and pharmacies. You are legally allowed to buy condoms no matter what your age.

What are the benefits of condoms?

• They are easy to get
• Condoms help prevent the spread of STIs and HIV
• Condoms have no side effects

What are the disadvantages of condoms?

• Condoms can slip or break during sex
• Some people feel embarrassed or don’t like using condoms.

For advice on how to talk to your partner about using condoms, click here.

How do I stop condoms from slipping or breaking?

To reduce the chance of your condom slipping or breaking:

• Make sure you always put it on correctly, leaving room at the tip for the semen
• Be careful not to pierce the condom with sharp objects such as of fingernails, jewellery or teeth
• Use plenty of water-based lubricant
• Always hold the base of the condom on the penis when pulling out after sex
• Check the expiry date on the condom before using
• Don’t keep condoms in a warm place like your car
• Prolonged or very vigorous sex can cause condoms to slip or break
• If the man’s penis goes soft before he withdraws, the condom may slip.

If your condom does break, it is important to see your doctor or nurse as soon as possible (within 3 days) so that you can get the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP for short).

Do condoms protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Yes, condoms help protect you against STIs and HIV. You should use a condom every time you have sex.