How to Put On a Condom

Make sure your condom is safe to use

First things first: never use a condom more than once, and always put it on before any penetrative play begins, including oral.

The early stages of an erection can contain sperm and organisms that can cause STIs, so make sure you wrap it up before you get going.

Make sure the condom hasn’t passed its expiry date - this should be written on the packet - and that there are no holes or cuts in the wrapper.

How to put on a condom

If you need a little help putting on a condom correctly, here are some instructions to help you through:

• First, remove the condom from its wrapper by tearing along one side and taking it out.
• Squeeze the closed (teat-like) end between your forefinger and thumb – this gets rid of any air trapped inside, which could cause it to break.
• Make sure the roll is on the outside and place the condom over the erect penis.
• Still squeezing the condom tip, roll it down the shaft.
• To make insertion more comfortable, use lube for condoms on both the covered penis and the area it’s entering.

Bonus tip: To make the experience even more pleasurable, you can place a couple of drops of lube inside the tip of the condom to increase the sensations.

Keep it in place

Make sure the condom stays in place during sex. If it rolls up, roll it back into place before continuing with your sex session.

“These feel almost the same as the real thing. My boyfriend likes these too as it feels just as good having sex without.” - Km13

If it slips off, dispose of it and put on a new one before sex continues.

Using a Condom for Oral Sex

Wearing a condom or a dental dam during oral sex is the only way to protect yourself from orally transmitted STIs.

Don’t love that rubbery taste in your mouth? Don’t blame you. Luckily the range of flavored condoms available rivals that of an ice cream store. Whether you like a minty taste or prefer something a little fruitier (blueberry cheesecake, for instance), you’re sure to find a flavored condom to whet your whistle.

Using a Condom for Anal Sex

Condoms don’t just protect you from unwanted pregnancies, they are critical in keeping you and your partner safe from STDs. This means it’s essential to wear a condom when having anal sex.

Condoms are more likely to tear or come off during anal sex, this is why its important to make sure your chosen condom is safe to use and fits you properly. You might want to go for an extra-strong option and use plenty of lube, too.

Removing a condom

After ejaculation, move away from your partner and withdraw your penis from the condom, holding gently at the teat and at the base to avoid any spillage. Then, wrap it in a tissue and dispose of it in the bin. Never flush a condom down the toilet.

Need more help?

You can contact Customer Care, who will be able to help you find the right condom. Speak to an experienced advisor via email, phone or live chat at any time of day or night. We have real human beings here 24/7 so you can get in touch whenever it is most convenient for you!

The other great place to look for people's advice on condoms is on the Lovehoney Forum, where our community is on hand with their opinions, experiences and tips.