How to Properly Use a Condom

Step 1: Check the back to make sure the condom is not expired.



Expiration Date

Step 2: Gently squeeze the condom wrapper to feel for an air bubble. If you cannot feel an air bubble, do not use the condom. (It could have a hole in it or be damaged)

Cut the condom from base to tip

Step 3: Slide the condom to the side of the package and carefully open the package with the pads of your fingers. Never use teeth, nails, scissors, or anything sharp.

Cut the condom from base to tip

Step 4: Take the condom out of the package and make sure it looks like a ‘sombrero’ and not a ‘beanie’ before putting it on the tip of a penis. If a ‘beanie’ touches the penis (and it will not roll down), get another condom.

Cut the condom from base to tip

Step 5: While pinching the tip and holding it with the pads of your fingers; roll the condom down to the base, making sure that no air bubbles are trapped inside the condom. Then ENJOY!

Cut the condom from base to tip

Step 6: Immediately after ejaculation, pull out away from your partner and slide condom off from the base to avoid spilling.



Step 7: Tie condom in a knot and throw away in the trash, never in a sink or toilet.



Most condoms break due to improper usage. Condoms are the best form of contraception against pregnancy and STIs, but are not 100% effective (many STIs are transmitted by skin-on-skin contact). Using a condom is 10,000 times more effective than using nothing at all. The Sex and Relationship interns endorse the use of more than one form of contraception and most importantly good communication before engaging in sexual activity (oral, anal, or penile-vaginal).