HOW TO HANDLE CONDOMS

Handling condoms gently and storing them properly (in a cool, dry place) are important. Those using condoms should also apply a drop or two of lubricant (unless using the kind that are prelubricated).

It is important to bear in mind that oil-based lubricants can damage latex; these, which are to be avoided, include petroleum jelly (Vaseline), butter, cold cream, and mineral and vegetable oils.

Storing condoms in a glove compartment, wallet, or pocket can damage them, thus rendering them ineffective.

When a user opens a condom package, he or she should take care not to tear it, and in instances when a condom seems brittle or sticky, do not consider it safe for use.

A drop of lubricant should be put inside if the condom is unlubricated. To put a condom on, an uncircumcised user should pull back his foreskin before rolling it on.

For the circumcised, this is not a consideration. The man should place the rolled condom over the tip of the hard penis, with a half-inch left at the tip for semen collecting. With one hand, he should pinch the air out of the tip (most condom breaks are caused by friction against air bubbles).

He should use his other hand to unroll it over the penis, rolling it all the way down the base. Next step: he
smoothes out air bubbles and lubricates the outside.

As far as proper placement, a condom should be put on before the penis touches the vulva because males
leak fluids before and after ejaculation that can carry sperm and germs that might cause STDs. A condom
is good for one use only.

Also, the expiration date on the package should be checked. After a condom has been used, correct removal is also important; the man should pull out of the vagina before the penis softens, and the condom
should be held against the base of the penis to prevent semen spillage.

After disposing of the condom, the man should wash his penis with soap and water before reinitiating contact or cuddling.