LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
CAMP Safe |
by Sal Seeley |
Don't Fail Me Now
You're in the heat of the moment; you're fumbling around in the dark. Most of us have had moments like that. You hear a snap or feel a pull. The moment is temporarily delayed. For some, the moment has come and gone. Don't you hate it when you do the right thing and use a condom for sex and it either breaks or comes off? Here are seven tips for making sure that condom goes the distance: Use the right lube: Only water and silicone based lubes should be used with latex condoms. Use enough lube: Studies have shown that guys who use plenty of lube, both on the condom and in their partner have much fewer condom breakages than guys who just put lube on the condom alone. Use the right size condom for your body part: Using a condom that is too small can make it more likely to break. Using one that is too big may make it more likely to slip off. Condoms come in a range of sizes so you can find one that is right for you. Change the condom after 30 minutes: Just like you, condoms can get worn out after having sex for some time. Condoms become more likely to break the longer you use them. Roll itdon't stretch it: Rolling down from the tip puts a lot less stress on the condom, meaning it stays stronger while you are having sex. Roll the condom all the way down to limit the chance that it will come off. Just use one condom at a time: You might think that using two condoms will give you twice the protectionit won't. But it can cause friction which makes them break Store your condoms in a safe place: Condoms need to be kept away from damp, hot places and out of direct sunlight. So, don't put them in your car or keep them in your wallet. By the way, check the expiration date. Condoms don't last forever, you know! Sal Seeley is Program Director of CAMPsafe, an HIV/AIDS program funded through a contract with the Delaware Division of Public Health. E-mail salvatoreseeley@aol.com. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 17, No. 12 August 24, 2007 |