Correctly using male (also called external) condoms and other barriers like female (also called internal) condoms and dental dams, every time, can reduce (though not eliminate) the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and viral hepatitis. They can also provide protection against other diseases that may be transmitted through sex like Zika and Ebola. Using male (external) and female (internal) condoms correctly, every time, can also help prevent pregnancy.
This website provides information for both consumers and public health professionals on the correct use of male (external) and female (internal) condoms and dental dams, as well male (external) condom effectiveness for STDs, and links to additional resources.
How to Use Condoms and Other Barriers
The Right Way To Use A Male (External) Condom
Condom Dos and Don’ts
- DO use a condom every time you have sex.
- DO put on a condom before having sex.
- DO read the package and check the expiration date.
- DO make sure there are no tears or defects.
- DO store condoms in a cool, dry place.
- DO use latex or polyurethane condoms.
- DO use water-based or silicone-based lubricant to prevent breakage.
- DON’T store condoms in your wallet as heat and friction can damage them.
- DON’T use nonoxynol-9 (a spermicide), as this can cause irritation.
- DON’T use oil-based products like baby oil, lotion, petroleum jelly, or cooking oil because they will cause the condom to break.
- DON’T use more than one condom at a time.
- DON’T reuse a condom.
How To Put On and Take Off a Male (External) Condom
The Right Way to Use Female (also called Internal) Condom
Female (Internal) Condom Dos and Don’ts
- DO use a female (internal) condom from start to finish, every time you have vaginal sex.*
- DO read the condom package insert and check the expiration date.
- DO make sure there are no tears or defects.
- DO use lubricant to help prevent the condom from slipping and tearing.
- DO store condoms in a cool, dry place.
*Female (Internal) condoms can also be used for anal sex and follow the same general guidelines as those for vaginal sex outlined below.
- DON’T use a male (external) condom with an female (internal) condom, as this can cause tearing.
- DON’T reuse a condom.
- DON’T flush condoms as they may clog the toilet.
How To Insert and Remove a Female (Internal) Condom
How To Use A Dental Dam As A Barrier For Oral Sex
Dental dams are latex or polyurethane sheets used between the mouth and vagina or anus during oral sex. Ready-to-use dental dams can be purchased online.
Dental Dam Dos and Don’ts
- DO use a new latex or polyurethane dental dam every time you have oral sex.
- DO read the package and check the expiration date.
- DO make sure there are no tears or defects.
- DO put on before starting oral sex and keep it on until finished.
- DO use water-based or silicone-based lubricant to prevent breakage.
- DO store dental dams in a cool, dry place.
- DON’T reuse a dental dam.
- DON’T stretch a dental dam, as this can cause it to tear.
- DON’T use nonoxynol-9 (a spermicide), which can cause irritation.
- DON’T use oil-based products like baby oil, lotion, petroleum jelly, or cooking oil because they will cause the dental dam to break.
- DON’T flush dental dams down the toilet as they may clog it.
How To Use a Dental Dam
How To Make a Dental Dam From a Condom*
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