Correct use of condoms help prevent spread of AIDS

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Besides abstinence, using a condom is the most effective way of preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS, and other sexually transmitted diseases, if you use it correctly. Here's how:

1. Use a new latex (rubber) condom each and every time you have intercourse.

2. Open the package, being careful not to tear the condom. (Partners with long or sharp nails should pay particularly close attention here.)

3. Pinch the reservoir tip (the closed end) of the condom to keep out air, which can cause the condom to burst. If there is no reservoir tip, pinch the tip enough to leave about 1/2 inch for semen to collect.

4. Place the condom over the erect penis, and unroll the condom, smoothing out the wrinkles all the way from the tip to the base of the penis.

5. If the condom is not pre-lubricated, use a water based lubricant like K-Y jelly or MUKO. Never use Vaseline or other oil-based lubricants because they may weaken the latex.

6. After doing what comes naturally, and while the penis is erect, grip the open end of the condom at the base of the penis, and remove the penis and the condom together. Don't wait too long, and be careful to prevent semen from leaking out.

7. Throw away the condom (never reuse it) and wash your hands before making any further contact with your partner.

Here's a few more hints you may find useful:

- Store condoms in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight. Condoms exposed to temperature over 100F (38C), high-humidity, air pollution and ultraviolet rays deteriorate quickly. Condoms may tear if handled roughly or brought into contact with rough surfaces. So avoid extended storage in glove compartment or wallet. Be creative in finding places to have them available.

- Check out the instructions for use on the package.

- Putting a drop of lubricant inside the condom improves sensation.

- If one of you is allergic to latex (rubber), use two condoms: one made out of animal skin to come into contact with the allergic partner, covered by a latex one to come into contact with the non-allergic partner.

- Do not use condoms produced for novelty use only or ones made of animal skin (natural membrane). They may not meet prescribed standards set by Health and Welfare Canada.

- Use a condom even if you practice birth control. A vasectomy, the pill, withdrawal and other practices do not protect against the transmission of HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

- Spermicides with nonoxynol-9 can be used in addition to (but never instead

of) condoms. They can help kill HIV, other STD organisms and sperm. Do not use nonoxynol-9 during anal intercourse because it irritates the rectal lining, and if vaginal irritation occurs, stop using it. You can check for allergies in advance by rubbing the spermicide on your arm and seeing whether a rash develops.

- Don't be embarrassed about using condoms. People have been using them for hundreds of years.

- Consider the act of putting on a condom as an erotic opportunity. Try making that activity part of the flow of your love-making rather than an interruption.