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There are two types of condoms: male and female

What is it?

Condoms are available in lots of different shapes and sizes and are made of a very thin latex (rubber) or polyurethane (plastic). Condoms are put over an erect penis to stop sperm from entering the vagina.

Remember, condoms are the only method to protect against STIs and unplanned pregnancy.

Condom tips

• It is a good idea to practice putting condoms on before having sex
• Always check for the British Kite Mark, CE mark and expiry date to make sure it is safe to use. Always buy condoms that have the CE mark and the British Kite Mark on the packet. This means that they've been tested to high European safety standards. Condoms that don't have the CE mark and the British Kite Mark won't meet these standards, so don't use them
• Make sure you put it on correctly
• Only use safe water-based lubricant because oil-based ones (Vaseline, baby oil) will weaken condoms
• Condoms should be used for oral, vaginal and anal sex

How effective is it?

Condoms are 98 per cent effective when used correctly at preventing pregnancy. This means that two out of 100 women using male condoms as contraception will become pregnant in one year.

What are the advantages?

• Condoms are available free as part of the Medway C Card scheme
• Condoms are easy to use
• Condoms help protect both partners from STIs
• Latex-free condoms are available for people who are allergic to latex

What else should I know?

Condoms may slip off or split if they are not used correctly - if this happens, seek emergency contraception immediately or visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Where can I get condoms?

Condoms are available free of charge as part of the Medway C Card scheme. You can also get condoms from contraceptive and sexual health clinics, GUM clinics and some student health clinics. Find your nearest services using our Find a Service page.

How to use a condom

It is important to put the condom on as soon as the penis is erect (stiff) and before there has been any genital contact. Skin-to-skin contact can cause the spread of STIs and pre-ejaculate contains sperm so there is a risk of pregnancy.

1. Take the condom out of the packet, taking care not to tear it
2. Place the condom over the tip of the penis
3. If there's a teat on the end of the condom, use your thumb and forefinger to squeeze the air out of it
4. Gently roll the condom down to the base of the penis
5. If the condom won't roll down, you're probably holding it the wrong way round. If this happens, throw the condom away because it may have sperm on it. Try again with a new one
6. After sex, withdraw the penis while it's still erect. Hold the condom on to the base of the penis while the penis is being withdrawn
7. Remove the condom from the penis, and be careful not to spill any semen
8. Throw the condom away in a bin, not down the toilet

For more information about contraception visit www.nhs.uk/worthtalkingabout ›