Talking about using condoms
You had a condom in your pocket, you’d planned to use it, but once you started having sex it seemed such a hassle to discuss it. You were thinking about something completely different ... But now you’re worried that you’ve got an STI or that you’re pregnant.
Sounds familiar? Safe sex seems so easy, but how do you talk about it?
Tips for talking about condoms
- Plan in advance when you want to talk about condoms. If you’ve just met someone, you don’t want to talk about safe sex straight away. But if you wait until after you’ve had sex, it’s too late of course.
- Think beforehand how you’re going to talk with your partner about condoms and what you’re going to say. Practising in advance makes it easier to talk when the time comes.
- Be clear! Just say that you don't want to get an STI, and that you don’t want to get pregnant, or get your partner pregnant. That way there’ll be no misunderstandings.
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And:
- Just grab a condom and put it on yourself or on your partner. You don't need to say anything and it’s immediately clear what you mean.
- Ask a friend how they go about it.
- Make sure you always have condoms with you (even if you’re female!), and even if you’re not planning to go to bed with someone. You just never know.
Video: Bringing it up & putting it on
How do you start a conversation about condoms? How do you put them on properly? Watch this video and hear about other young people’s experiences.
No need for condoms because you trust each other?
Videos about condoms
6 films with young people talking about condoms. Watch their frank conversations.
What are condoms?
Only condoms protect you against STIs. What are condoms? How do you use condoms? And where do you buy condoms? Read all about condoms here on Sense!
How to use a condom
Want to know how to put a condom on correctly to make sure it protects you properly? Read these instructions to find out exactly how it should be done.
Tips for using condoms
How do you use a condom properly? You’ll find all kinds of handy tips and tricks here. The most important tip is: stick to the instructions.
Buying and storing condoms
Click here to read some handy tips about where to buy and how to store condoms. And why you should never be embarrassed about asking for them.
Types of condoms
There are many different types of condoms. Hard to choose? Read here about each kind of condom to find out which condoms are the most suitable for you.
Condoms on holiday
Take condoms with you when you go on holiday. That way, you don't have go looking for them in shops and pharmacies you don’t know. Read more on Sense.
Female Condom
A female condom is a condom that you insert into your vagina. How do female condoms work? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Read it here on Sense!