The condom should be placed over the tip of the erect penis, with extra space left at the tip. The condom is unrolled all the way to the base of the penis. Additional lubrication should be used if the condom is not already lubricated. After orgasm, when the man is pulling out of his partner's vagina, the condom needs to be held in place so that it doesn't come off. For maximal effectiveness, the penis should still be erect when it is removed from the vagina. Only when the penis is completely outside of the vagina should the condom be removed. It is also recommended that the penis be thoroughly washed after the condom comes off to ensure that no wayward sperm or germs make their way to the man's partner.
When bad things happen to good people
Sometimes condoms break. In the event that this happens, it is important to consult a physician about obtaining protection against pregnancy (the morning-after pill) and against sexually transmitted diseases. The good news is that studies indicate that the condom breakage rate in the United States is less than two percent. If condoms are used consistently and correctly, the pregnancy rate should be less than five percent per year. Unfortunately, many couples don't use the condom each and every time and, in these cases, the pregnancy rate will be higher.
Anal sex
It is important to remember that it is possible for either sex partner to become infected with HIV and other infections during anal sex. In general, the person receiving the semen is at greater risk of getting HIV because the lining of the rectum is thin and may allow the virus to enter the body during anal sex. However, a person who inserts his penis into an infected partner also is at risk because HIV can enter through the urethra or through small cuts or open sores on the penis.
