Sex is one of the greatest pleasures of life, but sadly (as is the way of everything in this world) with the highs come the lows.

If precautions are not heeded sex can end in a list of unwanted diseases, infections, unwanted pregnancy and a break of trust between people. Of course safe sex can be practiced easily.  With more knowledge comes greater pleasure!

So, how do you go about it?

The two major, most talked about problems are STI’s, which can be passed between bodily fluids, and unwanted pregnancy.

First off, you need to consider front-line protection. That is a condom (available for men and women) or dental dam specifically for oral sex. In both cases these items provide a barrier between your bodily fluids, a simple concept really!  According to Planned Parenthood, condoms have the highest success rate of all contraceptives at 98%.  What also makes the condom so popular is their accessibility, inexpensiveness, and there is no medical reason why someone can’t use a condom, due in a large part because they are a hormone-free birth control.  Even people with latex allergies can use them as there are latex free condoms.

Additionally, you can use water based lubricants to reduce the chances of barriers from breaking and spermicide to stop any sperm living if any gets a chance to try and find it’s way to egg!  However, studies have shown that there are health risks for females associated with the spermicide Nonoxynol-9.  According to the CDC, regular use of N-9 may cause inflammation of the vagina and cervix, and damage layers of the cell walls. This can render females more susceptible to infection by various sexually transmitted diseases. They may also make it easier for her to transmit STDs to her partner.

That is why we recommend using N-9 free lubricants and non-spermicidal condoms.

Proper use of condoms, including getting your condom size correct, ensuring it is on properly, storing safely, as well as making sure all products are in date are all essential.

Sex toys need to be kept clean (instructions for cleaning are normally enclosed) or protected with condoms that are changed after every use.

Now, all this may sound very un-sexy, but a sexually transmitted disease is zero sexy! Still, how do you go about breaking the moment to reach for a condom or dental dam?

• Talk with your partner about safe-sex and how important it is before you start.
• Keep all items close by and have them at hand! A 15-minute run to the late night pharmacy could break the moment.
• Don’t allow yourself to feel awkward, knowing how to put condoms on and use other items will help keep things flowing.
• Know the products you are using and be comfortable with them before you find yourself needing them.

Various forms of sex have different levels of potential danger and foreplay including mutual masturbation, fondling and kissing is generally considered much safer. Intercourse both vaginal and anal are the most risky, but danger is low if you follow through on safety advice.

Don’t get yourself worried about it. Just learn how to be safe and enjoy!

More information can be found on Planned Parenthood’s section about Safer Sex.

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The procedure is very simple and once you have done it a few times it will be second nature. I would even advise doing it alone at home if worried about being embarrassed in the crucial moment!

A condom is an amazing thing but is also very delicate. So be careful to store the condom where it cannot be pierced. Make sure it is not past it’s expiry date adn when opening ot be careful to not rip a hole through the condom… For these reasons always carry a spare or two!

It’s also worth knowing that some types of lubricant can damage the normal latex condoms so only use lubricants that are water based. KY and Astroglide are perfect. Oil-based lubricants such as butter, vegetable oils or petroleum jelly often damage latex and can make a condom ineffective.

How to Put on a Condom

Every package of condoms is supplied with detailed instructions for care and use. Always read these and always check the expiry date. Never use condoms that are past their expiry date.

1. Put the condom on before your penis touches your partner’s vagina or anus. Fluid (pre cum) can be excreted before and after you ejaculate. This fluid could potentially pass on sexually transmitted infections and could cause pregnancy.

2. Never ever use a condom more than one time. Always use a new one from the packet for each time you get erect and peach time you ejaculate. It is always worth having more condoms than you think you need…. some nights end up that way !

3. An average condom is rolled into a ring shape. They are sealed in plastic or foil. Do not tear the condom whilst removing from it’s wrapper. If it is brittle, torn or stiff or anything seems wrong throw it away immediately and start fresh with a new one.

4. Before you start to put your condom on, squeeze a few drops of lubricant inside the condom (some condoms may be sufficiently lubricated, see individual instructions).

5. If you are uncircumcised, Pull back the foreskin before starting to roll on the condom.

6. Place the rolled condom over the tip of your hard penis.

7. Leave approximately half an inch of space at the tip to collect your semen.

8. Gently pinch the air out of the tip with one hand while placing onto your penis.

9. Unroll the condom over your penis with the your other hand.

10. Roll it all the way down to the base of your penis.

11. Smooth out any air bubbles. (Friction against air bubbles can cause condom breaks.)

12. Lubricate the outside of the condom (some condoms may be sufficiently lubricated, see individual instructions).

You may want to direct your partner to these instructions. Putting on a condom can be integrated into foreplay and can be something that your partner can do for you.

It’s also advised to watch the video below so that you can see visually how to put a condom on.

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