Safer Sex Three?

Proper Use of Barrier Methods

Male Condoms
To maximize protection and to minimize chances of condom breakage or slippage:(a)

• Use condoms made of latex or polyurethane.
• Use each condom only once.
• Store condoms in a cool dry place that is out of direct sunlight.
• Do not use any condom that is in a damaged or obviously aged (brittle, sticky, or discolored) package. Check expiration dates on condom packaging before use.
• Handle condoms carefully to avoid puncture.
• Ensure that no air is trapped in the tip of the condom once it is in place.
• Place condom on an erect penis before any genital or anal contact. Hold the tip of the condom between two fingers and unroll it onto the penis. Leave a space at the tip (without air in it) to collect semen.
• Ensure adequate lubrication. If extra lubrication is needed when using a latex condom, use only water-based or non-oil-based lubricants. Examples of oil-based lubricants that are unsafe to use with latex condoms include mineral oil, petroleum jelly, cooking oils (eg, vegetable oils or vegetable shortening), or body oils.
• Withdraw the penis while still erect after ejaculation. Grasp the base of the condom and hold it before and during withdrawal of the penis to ensure the condom does not come off.
• If a condom breaks or slips off during sex, replace it with a new condom immediately.

Female Condoms
Guidelines for vaginal use of female condoms are as follows:(b)

• Insert the condom into the vagina 8 hours or less prior to intercourse.
• Use additional lubrication, if necessary.
• Use each female condom only once.
• Squeeze the inner ring and insert the closed end of the condom into the vagina as far as it will go.
• Using the index finger, check that the inner ring is just past the pubic bone.
• Leave the outer ring and about 1 inch of the sheath lying against the labia, outside of the vagina.
• Ensure that the penis is inserted inside the sheath (not underneath or beside the sheath).
• Ensure that the outer ring is not pushed into the vagina during intercourse.
• If the penis slips under or beside the sheath, remove the condom and insert a new one.
• Squeeze and twist the outer ring to keep sperm inside the sheath during removal.

Dental Dams

• Hold the latex square over the vaginal area or anal area prior to and during the time of oral contact with that area.
• Use each dental dam only once.