Condoms are not a new phenomenon, in fact, the first example of condom usage can be linked back to cave paintings in 10000-13000 BC. Condoms have been made out of everything from linen to tortoiseshell. Modern internal and external condoms are no longer made of tortoiseshell but they are still used to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STI). However, condoms are only effective when they are used correctly and consistently. Check out this list of do’s and don’ts from the American Sexual Health Association:

CONDOM DOs:

• Use only latex or polyurethane (plastic) condoms.
• Keep condoms in a cool, dry place.
• Put the condom on before there is any contact with a partner’s genitals.
• Use plenty of lubricant with latex condoms if you find vaginal sex is uncomfortable, or that condoms tend to rip or tear. Don’t use oil-based products with latex condoms (see DON’TS for more on this). Water-based lubes are condom-friendly but might increase the risks of STIs with anal sex. Consider using silicone-based lubricants for anal intercourse.
• Hold the condom in place at the base of the penis before withdrawing (pulling out) after sex.
• Throw the condom away after it’s been used.

CONDOM DON’Ts:

• DON’T use out of date condoms. Make sure to check the expiration date carefully. Old condoms can be dry, brittle or weakened and can break more easily.
• DON’T leave condoms in hot places like your wallet or in your car.
• DON’T use oil-based products, like baby or cooking oils, hand lotion or petroleum jelly (like Vaseline®) as lubricants with latex condoms. The oil quickly weakens latex and can cause condoms to break.
• DON’T use your fingernails or teeth when opening a condom wrapper. It’s very easy to tear the condom inside. If you do tear a condom while opening the wrapper, throw that condom away and get a new one.
• DON’T reuse a condom. Always use a new condom for each kind of sex you have.
• DON’T regularly use lubricants with spermicide called nonoxynol-9 (“N-9”) as they may cause skin irritation or tiny abrasions that make the genital skin more susceptible to STIs. 

Did you know Health Initiatives has a FREE condom availability program on campus? The Condom Availability Program at Georgia Tech provides the campus community with availability and access to a variety of condoms, lubricants, and contraceptives to help improve your sexual health. To find the most convenient location or additional information on sexual health go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/condoms.