Cambridge University Students’ Union Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender Campaign
Condoms
Condom facts
The are several key points you should remember when using condoms.
- always use condoms with a kite mark (British standard), ensuring that they are fully tested
- always check the expiry date, as condoms degrade over time
- never keep them in your wallet or pocket, as the heat and pressure will cause the condom to degrade quicker (so the expiry date will be invalid)
How to put a condom on
- squeeze the condom to one side through the foil, and tear the packet open - this way, you will avoid damaging the condom
- make sure your penis is fully erect before putting on the condom
- squeeze the teat so that there is no air left in it - this means that when you ejaculate the sperm can fill the teat (if there is air in it it might burst)
- still holding the teat, roll the condom downwards onto the penis
Lube
Latex condoms should only be used with water-based lubricants such as KY-Jelly, as they'll degrade in the presence of oil-based ones, making them useless. In particular, latex condoms will break up if used with the following:
- vaseline
- hand or body lotions
- massage oil
- butter or margarine
Note: Avanti condoms, which are made from polyurethane rather than latex, will not degrade in the presence of oil-based lubricants. These condoms are suitable for those that are allergic to latex. Some people also wear them as they don't taste of latex (so are better suited to oral sex), are looser than other condoms, and transmit heat well.
And when you've finished
Whilst you still have an erection, hold on to the base of the condom and withdraw carefully. Remove the condom, taking care not to let any semen drip out wrap the condom up in a tissue and put it in a bin.
Where to get condoms
If you are using condoms for anal sex, they need to be strong. These can be purchased from most high street chemists and supermarkets. There's no need to be embarrassed - the fact that they stock them means that other people buy them too so the staff have seen it all before. Places like Boots will also sell water based lube like KY Jelly.
As a student, you may wish to save some money: strong condoms are available at cost price from CUSU Offices Reception, Old Examination Halls, Free School Lane.
Strong condom and lube packs are often available from gay clubs and bars. The dHIVerse charity, for example, often hands out packs at the Dot Cotton, a monthly gay club night at the Junction.
Other barriers
CUSU also sells oral barriers (dental dams), lube and latex gloves, all at cost price. Go into their offices at Old Examination Halls, Free School Lane. Items such as dental dams are much harder to purchase than condoms.