Condoms: test your knowledge

We have all heard that condoms are the only efficient way to protect yourself and your partner against AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases.  But while condoms might be part of your weekly shopping list, sometimes you might forget a few details that are important for buying, storing, and using your condoms properly and effectively.

One of the things that few people know is that under laboratory conditions latex condoms are very effective at blocking transmission of HIV because the pores in latex condoms are too small to allow the virus to pass through.  Unfortunately, the effectiveness of condoms decreases outside laboratory conditions mainly because people do not always use them properly.

Here you will find a few questions to test your knowledge on condoms.  Please be honest when you answer and let see whether you are the King of Condoms or not.

Remember that you need to use a new condom every time you have sexual intercourse. Never use the same condom twice.

The best place to store latex condoms is in a dry and cool place. Exposure to heat, such as a back-pocket wallet or a hot glove compartment can create microscopic holes. Most male condoms can be kept in their packages for about 2-3 years.

Classic condoms can last for up to 5 years. Always check if there is an expiry date that the date has not passed.

Condoms sometimes contain a spermicide. Spermicides are chemical products that deactivate or kill sperm to prevent pregnancy. Condoms with spermicide can last up to 3 years. Always check that if there is an expiry date that the date has not passed.

The best condoms are made of Latex.  Latex condoms are more widely available and cheaper, although some people can be allergic to them, in which case a polyurethane condom may be more appropriate.

Condoms are quite simple to use, but like anything, it can take a bit of practice to get it right. The best way to put on a condom is to open the wrapping and, placing the condom at the tip of your penis, unroll it to the base. The condom should unroll smoothly and easily from the rim on the outside.

The only reason why you might not wear a condom is because both you and your partner just had an HIV test and you were both clear.

Only use certified lubricants that are recommended for your type of condom. Always use a water-based lubricant (such as KY Jelly or Liquid Silk) with latex condoms, as an oil-based lubricant will cause the latex to break.

The Morning-After Pill is an emergency contraceptive which helps to protect you against pregnancy if you’ve had unprotected sex or if your regular contraceptive has failed. To find out how the morning after pill can help you, take a free consultation today.

The emergency contraceptive pills that are prescribed today very rarely cause any side effects. Though you may feel a little sick after taking it, only 1 in 60 women are actually physically sick after using emergency contraceptive pills.