HOW TO USE A CONDOM
By: A. Neal

Condom Meltdown: Most experts agree about the dangers of using condoms that have passed their expiration date: The condoms could break. Condoms pass "water leak and strength tests" before they are allowed to be placed on the open market but their reliability falters over time if left unused. Lubricated condoms last for approximately 3 years after the date of manufacturing. Spermicially-lubricated condoms last for approximately 3 years after date of manufacturing because the spermicide breaks down more quickly than the condom itself, according to Richard Kline of Carter-Wallace, the makers of Trojans brand condoms. Condoms breakdown also can be accelerated by improper storage conditions such as broken seals, exposure to air, moisture, sunlight, and extreme high and low temperatures. Store condoms at room temperature. Oil-based lubricants (such as Crisco, Vaseline, mineral oil, cold cream, baby oil, and hand cream, etc.) will weaken the condom and cause it to break down as well. If the condom is "sticky" or brittle, looks "aged" or damaged in any way, DO NOT use it! Better to postpone pleasure than to risk your life! Condoms are primarily intended for use in vaginal penetrating sexual activities; other uses can increase the potential for breakage. "Natural" or lambskin condoms do NOT protect against the HIV infection.

1. Use a new condom for each sex act (a new condom for each person and a new one if you alternate between anal and vaginal sex), squeeze the tip of the condom to remove air (trapped excess air could cause the condom to break). Putting a drop of a water-based lubricant in the tip of the condom increases the sensitivity and coating the condom (once on the erect penis) on the outside helps keep from tearing body tissue, as tearing increases risk of infection. Lubricant also keeps the condom from breaking, too.

2. When the penis is erect (and before any sexual contact), place the condom on the penis tip and roll the condom over it toward the base of the penis. If the penis that the condom is being placed over is uncircumcised, pull the foreskin back, squeeze the air out of the condom, and roll the condom downward over the penis.

3. If the condom breaks, comes off, or if semen spills over the top, you and your partner(s) should immediately wash away bodily fluids

4. After use, after ejaculating, withdraw the penis from the condom while the penis is still erect. Hold on to the rim of the condom so semen will not escape. Withdrawing the condom-covered penis from the vagina or anus before ejaculating also decreases risk of transmission of diseases. Avoid further sexual contact with your partner(s) until all parties involved wash their genitals and any other parts of the body which might have come in contact with bodily fluids. If you or your partner(s) sense burning or itching, discontinue the use of the brand of condoms you had. Try another type of condom. Ask a physician for a reference.

WARNING:  Avoid alcohol and drugs prior to engaging in sexual activities as they may impair judgment, influence decision-making processes, and may reduce ability to negotiate and practice safer sex. Just a reminder... Please, don't drink and drive!

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