Condoms can help protect you from most sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but they’re not perfect. Sometimes they break. A condom can break if it’s put on the wrong way. Here’s the right way to put on a condom.
Step 1
Squeeze the air from the tip of the condom as you put it on the head of the hard penis.
Step 2
Leave some room in the tip of the condom to catch semen. Unroll the condom all the way down over the penis.
Step 3
Use only water-based lubricants with latex condoms. Using oils or hand creams can cause latex condoms to break.
Step 4
After sex, hold the condom at the base of the penis and pull out of your partner carefully. Then throw the condom away.
Condom tips
Recommendations for safe condom use include the following:
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To prevent STIs, use only condoms made of latex or polyurethane.
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If you want the condom to feel slippery, use lubricated condoms or use water-based lubricants.
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Never use the same condom twice.
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Using spermicides with condoms may help protect against some STIs. Don't use spermicide if it causes itching or pain.
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Keep condoms in a cool, dry place. Heat can damage them.
Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
Online Medical Reviewer: Heather Trevino
Online Medical Reviewer: Irina Burd MD PhD
Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
