Consistent and correct use of condoms during sex can substantially reduce the risk of getting HIV. Use a condom - EVERY TME - for vaginal or anal sex, and barrier methods, such as a condom or dental dam, for oral sex. It is important that a new one be used correctly each and every time you have sex. A number of different types of condoms are now available. What is generally called a condom is the 'male' condom, a sheath or covering which fits over a man's penis, and which is closed at one end. There is also a female condom, or vaginal sheath, which is used by a woman and which fits inside her vagina.

Tips for Proper Use

Consistent and correct use of condoms during sex can substantially reduce the risk of getting HIV. Here are some tips to make sure the condom you're using is doing its job:

• Latex and polyurethane are the way to go - latex or polyurethane condoms are the only ones that effectively protect against HIV infection.
• Fresh condoms are good condoms - check the expiration date on the condom wrapper; if it has passed, throw out the condom. Also look at the condom itself - does it seem dry, brittle, stiff or unusually sticky? If so, don't take chances. It's better to use a different one.
• Condom condition - store your condoms in a cool, dry place so they don't get damaged. Heat and excessive wear can cause a condom to tear during sex - glove boxes, back pockets, wallets and window shelves are all bad places to keep your condoms.
• Read the instructions - make sure the condom is on correctly before getting started. Use a new one every time. The man wearing the condom doesn't always have to be the one putting it on - it can be quite a nice thing for his partner to do.
• Use lubrication - to help ensure that the condom doesn't tear or come off, use some water-based lubricant inside and outside the condom. Be sure not to use an oil-based lubricant like Vaseline or other petroleum jellies, body lotions, mineral or vegetable oils - they can cause the latex to break down. Also, studies have shown that lubricants or condoms with nonoxynol-9 (a product often used in spermicides) may actually increase the risk of HIV transmission during sex and are not recommended as an effective means of HIV prevention.