Prevention

• Condoms

  There are lots of condoms on the market. Which ones work best?

  Condoms are not 100% safe, but if used properly, will reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. The condoms that have been proved best to help prevent the transmission of STDs are made of latex. Tests have shown that latex condoms can prevent the passage of the AIDS, hepatitis and herpes viruses, but natural (lambskin) condoms may not do this. Novelty condoms will not say anything about either disease prevention or pregnancy prevention on the package. They are only intended for sexual stimulation, not protection. Another kind new to the market is the polyurethane condom, sold under the name of Avanti. Read the packages. They will give you information on whether the condom:

  • Is latex, polyurethane or lambskin (lambskin could prevent pregnancy, but does not protect you from STDs.)
  • Comes lubricated (matter of personal preference between couples)
  • Contains spermicide (some people feel they are getting extra protection but the chemical could cause a reaction in some people)
  • Size (most condoms measure approximately 190 millimeters long. Some are longer and some are shorter).
  • Expiration date (must be used before date on package)

  Some helpful hints for condom use:

  • Use a new condom for each sex act (vaginal, anal and oral).
  • Handle condoms carefully. Ripping the package open with teeth, jagged fingernails, and even the wrapper can tear or put tiny holes in the condom.
  • Put the condom on when penis is erect and before any vaginal, anal or oral contact with your partner.
  • Prevent an air bubble while leaving room in the tip of the condom for semen. Squeeze the tip as you begin to unroll it all the way down the erect penis. (To increase sensitivity to the man, a drop of lubricant could be placed on the head of the penis before you put on the condom).
  • If additional lubrication is needed, be sure to use a water soluble type (K-Y Jelly, Wet, ID, Astro-Glide, Duragel, etc.). Oil based lubricants may increase the chance the condom will break.
  • To prevent the condom from slipping off, hold it firmly at the base of the penis and withdraw from your partner while the penis is still hard. Wrap the condom in a tissue and throw it in the garbage. Do not flush it down the toilet.
  • For those people who are allergic to latex, there are two options:
    1. Use the Avanti (made of polyurethane)
    2. Use two condoms, one latex and the other lambskin. Keep the lambskin next to the person who is sensitive to latex.
  • When performing oral sex on a woman, use a dental dam, latex sheath or plastic wrap to prevent contact with vaginal fluids.
  • Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If you want to keep one with you, put it in a lose pocket, wallet or purse for no more than a few hours at a time. Don't keep condoms in a hot place like a glove compartment. Extreme temperatures-especially heat-can make latex brittle or gummy, so the condom would be no good.

  What about this new "female condom"?

  This is something new on the market in the last two years. The brand name is Reality, and it is the only woman controlled contraceptive for protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD). It's made of polyurethane, which is less irritating. It can be inserted up to 8 hours ahead of sexual intercourse without interfering with normal body functions. Another benefit of polyurethane is that it conducts heat, and sensations are not dulled. This product comes with a water based lubricant, but oil based products can be used.

  The female condom does take some getting used to, but it is catching on with women. Most like the fact that they don't have to depend on someone else for protection, and by inserting it ahead of time, lovemaking is not interrupted.

  Condoms are available for the public at the
  Seminole County Health Department.