Everything you need to know about condoms

Choosing the right condom

Condoms offer protection from STIs and unwanted pregnancy. They come in a variety of sizes, designs, colours and textures to add fun and a bit of extra pleasure to your experiences.

You or your partner may be worried that condoms reduce sensitivity during sex. If this is the case, it’s time you tried Durex Invisible - the thinnest condom we’ve ever made. 

Or one of you may be allergic to latex? If so, our latex-free condoms are just what you’re looking for.

Our condom range also includes Durex Mutual Climax Condoms which are designed to speed her and slow him down. They have Performax™ lubricant on the inside to help him last longer and ribs and dots on the outside to increase her stimulation.

Tips for using condoms

Here are a few basic tips to help make sure your condoms work as well as they possibly can:

• Read the instructions inside the condom pack
• Locate the expiry date on the pack or foil
• Keep them in a cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Push the condom down to one end of the foil before tearing the other end (don’t want to damage the condom!)
• Always squeeze the air out of the tip of the condom before rolling it on.
• Don’t use an oil-based lube or one that isn’t compatible with condoms - check the label on the lube bottle for instructions.
• Above all, make sure you use a condom every time you have sex to ensure both you and your partner are protected.

How to put a condom on

1. Push the condom down as you tear across the wiggly side of the wrapper – take care not to rip the condom inside.

2. Before you put the condom on, add a drop or two of lube to the inside. This will help the condom roll on more easily and can help you feel even more.

3. You need to make sure the penis is fully erect before putting on a condom and, if you have one, pull back your foreskin.

4. Leave around half an inch of extra space at the top of the condom by pinching out any extra air in the tip before rolling the condom down. This reduces the chances of the condom breaking.

5. As you or your partner roll the condom on the penis, smooth out any air bubbles along the way.

6. Make sure the condom is on when you start foreplay as, even before ejaculation, the penis can excrete fluid that contains sperm, called pre-ejaculation. If this fluid comes in contact with your partner, it can increase the chances of pregnancy and contracting an STI.

How to remove a condom

For maximum effectiveness, taking a condom off correctly is just as important as knowing how to put one on.

1. After orgasm, pull out immediately before the penis goes soft.
2. Hold on to the open end of the condom to avoid semen spilling out.
3. Put it in the garbage

Next time, you get together with your partner, you might want to try a condom that offers a slightly different experience. Durex sets the quality standard for condoms so be sure to check out the full range.

Remember no method of contraception works 100% against pregnancy, HIV or sexually transmitted infections. It’s good to be in the know, so read the information inside the package, especially if you are using condoms for anal or oral sex.