How to Use a Condom

First, check that the condom foil is intact, that it’s within the expiry date and that it carries the CE mark and the Kitemark.
If condom package is damaged discard that condom and use a new one from undamaged package. Tear along one side of
the foil taking care to handle the condom carefully, including removal from the package so as to avoid damage to the condom by fingernails, jewellery, etc. Take the condom out of its individual foil prior to immediate use.

The condom should be placed on the erect penis before any contact occurs between the penis and the partner's body to assist in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy..

Hold the condom teat between your thumb and finger making sure that the condom is the right way for unrolling
(the roll must be outside). Squeezing the teat end expels air from the condom, reducing the chance of it bursting during use.

Using your other hand unroll the condom down the entire length of the penis, while still holding the teat. Make sure the condom stays in place during sex. If you feel the condom slipping off stop and check that the condom is still in place. Check if the condom feels like it is tightening excessively onto the penis because this might lead to breakage

Withdraw the penis soon after ejaculation, while holding the condom firmly in place at the base of the penis. Only when the penis is completely withdrawn can you remove the condom. Make sure you keep the penis and used condom away from the vagina and anus.

After use make sure you dispose of the condom hygienically. Wrap it in tissue and place it in a waste bin. Do not flush it down the toilet.

We would like to thank NHS Highland for their kind permission to use this link.

Useful Information

Always handle the condom carefully and remove from the foil with care. If the condom or the foil show any visible signs of damage do not use.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Carrying condoms in your wallet or back pocket is not advisable.
Some medications applied to the penis, anus or vagina may damage condoms, so check with your doctor or pharmacist.
A condom should never be used for a second time. It will not offer the same protection against pregnancy and STIs if it has been used before and the risk of breakage is higher.
Do not use oil-based lubricants such as baby oil, petroleum jelly, body lotions, massage oils, butter, etc. as they can damage latex condoms. If additional lubrication is desired, use a water-based lubricant. It is recommended to use additional lubrication if vaginal dryness is an issue or for anal sex to minimise the risk of a condom breaking or coming off. If a condom is used for anal sex please make sure that plenty lubricant is used and the condom is changed frequently.
Please consider the environment when disposing of condoms. Condoms should be wrapped in a tissue, and disposed of in a domestic waste bin. Flushing them down the toilet may cause plumbing problems. The plastic and foil wrappers condoms are packaged in are biodegradable. However, the benefits condoms offer are widely considered to offset their small landfill mass.
If the condom bursts, rips or slips there is a risk of contracting STI's, HIV or pregnancy. Please read If You've Had Unprotected Sex which will help you think through what you need to do.