How do I use a condom?

There are 4 things you need to look for before opening the condom packet:

1. Expiry date
   If the condom has expired it might not work properly.
2. Rips or holes
   If there are rips or holes in the packaging then the condom might be damaged as well.
3. European CE mark or the UKCA mark
   If the packaging has either of these marks, this means that the condom has been tested to high safety standards.
4. Size
   Make sure you have the right size for your penis or toy. If it’s too big it might fall off, and if it’s too small it might tear. More about how to find the right condom for you

Before opening, feel for the rib of the condom inside the packaging. Push this to the side so that when you tear it open you don’t tear the condom as well. Never open a condom using scissors or anything sharp.

Check which way to roll it down before it touches the penis and unroll the condom a bit to check it is the right way round. If you put the condom on the wrong way round, get a new one and start again.

Pinch the tip of the condom between your thumb and forefinger to get rid of any air, and then place the condom on the tip of the penis.

Using your other hand, roll the condom all the way to the base of the penis. Once it is on, slide your fingers along the side to get rid of any air bubbles. You can some lube to the outside of the condom for extra pleasure.

After ejaculation, withdraw the penis before it gets soft. To do this, hold the condom on at the base until the penis is withdrawn from your partner’s mouth, vagina or anus, and then take it off (away from your partner), wrap it in tissue and throw it in the bin (not down the toilet).

Struggling to know how to talk about condoms? Read our guide to talking about condoms.