Smart Sex Workshop Outline
General Condom Use

Activity Summary:

Participants will learn what condoms are, why they are important, condom types, which type are good for what activity, lubrication, and storage issues.

There are condoms for use by both males and females. Condoms are barriers worn over the penis or inserted into the vagina that help to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections and HIV. They must be used properly to be protected during sex.

There are lots of different types of condoms available. Each person may have different preferences when it comes to condoms. Some people find certain kinds feel better or fit better for them. There are also condoms and barriers made for specific activities, such as oral sex.

Condoms should be kept close at hand, such as in a bedside table or sock drawer. They should also be kept away from heat and direct sunlight as heat damages the latex leading to breakage. Do not store condoms in your wallet for weeks or months because the body heat damages them and there is risk of puncture. Also, it is best to use name brand condoms like Durex or Trojan.

Different types of lubricant, or lube, also have different consistencies, and you can pick your personal favorite. It is important to use water or silicon based lube with condoms because anything oil based (Vaseline, moisturizer, baby oil, etc.) will break down latex and will very likely cause the condom to break.

• Female condoms – It lines the vagina and feels different than the traditional male condom. You squeeze the ring and insert it the same way as an OB tampon, leaving an inch or two outside the body. This means it offers better protection against HPV and herpes. The ring holds it in place, you add lube to the inside, and you don’t need to have an erection to put it in place, so it can be inserted ahead of time. It’s made of polyurethane, so can be used by people with latex allergies, but it’s expensive and can’t be reused.
• Polyurethane condoms (Avanti) – This is an option for those who are allergic to latex, but it’s more expensive than the traditional latex condom. It transfers heat better than latex, so some people enjoy it because they can feel their partner’s warmth better.
• Natural condoms – This type of condom is a natural membrane, often lambskin. Lambskin condoms protect against pregnancy but offer no protection for HIV and STIs.
• Non-lubricated condoms – For oral sex on a man, or if you prefer to use your own lubricant. You can use flavored lubricant for oral sex as well.
• Dental dams – For oral sex on a woman or for rimming. Available in specialty sex or condom stores. You can also make a dental dam by cutting open a glove or a non-lubricated condom. (You can demonstrate this by taking a glove, cutting off the fingers and cutting it open on the side opposite the thumb.) Place on partner’s vulva. You can place your tongue or finger in the thumb of the glove to explore inside your partner!
• Ribbed or studded or sensation tip condoms – For increased sensation and stimulation for the partner.
• Flavored condoms – The flavor is due to flavored powder on the condom. To be used only for oral sex because the flavoring can cause infection or irritation of the vagina or anus.
• Extra thin condoms - These are subjected to the same tests and are as safe as regular condoms if used properly. Some people find the thinner latex allows more feeling during penetration.
• Glow in the Dark condoms – This is a novelty item not to be used for sex. It may not have been tested for safety to be used for penetration. The liquid used for glow in the dark effect may cause irritation or infection of vagina or anus.
• Extra strong condoms – Some people prefer them for vigorous or anal sex, which can have more friction.
• Colored condoms – These are the same as regular condoms. For variety and fun!
• Latex or nitrile gloves – For safer finger or fisting, especially if someone has cuts on their hands or wants to smooth out the surface. Nitrile gloves can be used if allergic to latex.
• Water based lube – There are various formulas and brands, each with its own consistency and flavor. Silicone is generally more expensive, but it remains slippery longer than water based lube. You can’t add water to make silicone slippery again.
• Flavoured lube – This is for oral sex only because the sugar can cause yeast infections or other irritations.