KSpot

Q&A

1. Should you use a condom when you have sexual intercourse?

Yes, because using a condom will protect both partners against becoming infected with a sexually transmitted disease.

2. How can I persuade my partner to use a condom?

It can be difficult to talk about using condoms, but you shouldn't let embarrassment become a health risk. The person you are thinking about having sex with may not agree at first when you say that you want to try and use a condom when you have sex. These are some excuses that might be made and some answers that you could try:

EXCUSE	ANSWER
Don't you trust me?	Trust isn't the point, people can have infections without realizing it
I can't feel a thing when I wear a condom	Maybe that way you'll last even longer and that will make up for it
I don't stay hard when I put on a condom	I'll help you put it on, that will help you keep it
I don't have a condom with me	I do
I'm on the pill, you don't need a condom	I'd like to use it anyway. It will help to protect us from infections we may not realize we have.
But I love you	Then you'll help us to protect ourselves.
Just this once	Once is all it takes

3. How much protection do condoms give against pregnancy? If a condom breaks what are the risks of pregnancy?

When used properly the condom doesn't split or burst, they can be very effective in preventing both pregnancy and STDs. If a condom breaks and no other from of contraception such as the birth control pill is used then there is a risk that a woman may become pregnant.

4. Regular condoms don't seem to fit me, what should I do?

All condoms are a standard length, but it is possible to buy condoms that vary in width. 'Snug fit' condoms are slightly smaller in width to give a closer fit. Slightly larger condoms are available which are 2mm wider than regular ones.

5. Using 2 condoms are better than one in avoiding pregnancy?

Using two condoms at the same time-either two male condoms or a male and female condom- is not a good idea as the friction may result in one or both of the condoms tearing. If you want to take extra precautions against pregnancy when having sex, and are concerned about the possibility of a condom breaking it is better to use another form of contraception. For example, using the birth control pill as well as a condom will ensure that you both have double protection against pregnancy and STDs.

6. If I use a condom I seem to lose my erection...

It is a good idea to get some condoms before having sex and practice using them. That way you can get use to the feel of condoms and putting them on, which should help you feel more relaxed about using when having sex and less likely to use your erection.

7. Can you use a condom under water?

If you are going to use a condom under water it is important that you put the condom on before you get into the water, Also, if the water contains chemicals such as chlorine, or additives such as soap, bath oil or bubble bath then this may affect the latex.

8. What is the best way to get condoms?

It will depend on which country you are in, but in India, anyone can buy condoms from chemists and supermarkets. In some countries condoms are often available from vending machines in public toilets or condoms are also available free or at low-cost from clinics