| Condoms will only provide
protection from the herpes virus if they are used properly. If you are not used to
handling condoms, take some time alone to practice with them - try putting it on yourself
if you are a man, or on a banana or similar object if you are a woman.
Tips for condom use:
Always use a new
condom every time you have sex. Choose a high quality, lubricated, latex brand.
Store your condoms in a
cool dry place. Do not carry them in your wallet or pocket as they can be damaged by heat
and friction. If you do have to carry condoms about, replace unused condoms regularly.
Check the condom's expiry
('use by') date. This is stamped on the package.
Put the condom on the erect
penis before there is any contact with the vagina, mouth or anus.
Roll the condom rim all the
way to the base of the penis.
If you use a lubricant,
make sure it is water-based and not oil-based (petroleum jelly, mineral oil, vegetable oil
and similar lubricants can damage the latex).To check whether a product is oil-based, put
some on your finger and run it under hot water. If the lubricant remains oily and does not
melt away, then it is oil-based.
Using a spermicidal,
contraceptive jelly containing nonoxynol 9 or benzalkonium chloride with a condom is a
good idea, so long as it does not irritate your skin.
Dispose of the condom
carefully. Do not let your partner touch the used condom. Tie off the end to stop the
contents from spilling and place it in the rubbish bin, not the toilet.
If you use a female
condom, follow the instructions on the packet carefully.
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