Safe Sex No Regrets

Did you know?

The use of condoms can be traced back several thousand years. It is known that around 1000 BC the ancient Egyptians used a linen sheath for protection against disease. Today condoms come in all different colours, flavours and sizes and are made of latex or polyurethane

Condoms are the best way to protect yourself and your partner from HIV, chlamydia and many other STIs. Condoms are available from chemists, supermarkets and vending machines.

If you think you are going to be having sex, know how to use condoms and keep them handy.

How to use condoms

Check the expiry date and make sure the label says it meets
Australian standards
Store condoms in a cool place. It is not a good idea to leave condoms in a car. If you do keep condoms in your wallet or purse, make sure you replace them regularly
Condoms come in different sizes. Find a condom brand and size that is comfortable for you.
Unwrap the condom from the packet but be careful not to tear the condom. Don’t unroll the condom until it’s on the penis.
To roll the condom on, make sure the penis is erect. Make sure the condom is the right way up. Squeeze the teat of the condom to remove the air bubble and then roll the condom to the base of the penis. If uncircumcised, pull back the foreskin.
Apply a water based lubricant to the outside of the condom to
increase pleasure and to reduce the risk of the condom breaking. Oil based products will weaken the condom and lead to breakage.
When withdrawing, make sure the penis is still erect and hold the condom so that it doesn’t slip off.
Dispose of the condom in the rubbish bin.
Use a condom only once.
Don’t put two condoms on for strength – they may tear more
easily because of friction.

Where can I get condoms & lubricant?

Condoms and lubricant are available at pharmacies, many supermarkets, convenience stores and vending machines in the toilets of pubs and clubs.

What do I do if the condom breaks?

If you think the condom has broken during sex pull out immediately and replace the condom. If the condom broke or slipped off during sex, you might want to consider emergency contraception, Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) or getting a sexual health-check-up.

More about PEP

If you have been exposed to HIV there is a four-week treatment that may prevent you becoming infected. It is called PEP (post exposure prophylaxis). If you think you may have been exposed, you can call the PEP Line–1300 767 161 but you need to do this as soon as possible and not more than 72 hours after exposure!