Nowadays, our health is threatened from many directions, and one of them is our own sexuality. In this post we will learn a few things about protecting us from STD (sexually transmittable diseases) by properly using a condom. We will learn what is a condom and how should we use a condom, as well as learn a few interesting facts about the “rubber”.

So… what is a condom?

It is a sack-shaped item made from latex, which has to be placed on an erect penis. If used properly, this very cheap and nice item can prevent STDs and unwanted pregnancies with an efficacy of up to 98%. It does this by: a) collecting the semen and forbidding sperm’s contact with the female’s genitalia; b) preventing direct contact of the male’s and female’s organs.

OK, then. How to properly use a condom?

Properly using it could be your life saviour, if we are to exaggerate things a little (and it’s best to be more careful usually). Here are the steps you have to respect in order to make sure you use it properly and protect your health (as well as your partner’s):

1. Make sure that the condom is in a good condition – not one you carried in your wallet for ages, not one others have played with or one that was opened on a previous occasion.
2. Carefully open the pack from one corner without using fingernails or tooth since you could damage it.
3. Make sure that yo place it on the erect penis, but before any type of contact between it and the female’s organs.
4. It can only be rolled down in one direction. Roll it on your finger a little before placing it, to make sure that you place it correctly.
5. If somehow it’s on the other side, throw it away and grab a new one (and be more careful with it!)
6. After finishing, withdraw while the penis is still erect and carefully take the condom off. Tie it with a knot and throw it away in a safe place (and never in the toilet). Never use a condom more than once!

If you do these things and respect these instructions to use the condom properly, your risks of getting a dangerous STD (including AIDS!) are greatly, greatly reduced. Always take care of your health!