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Safer Sex

When a person decides to have sex, they are encouraged to practice safer sex to protect themselves from STI's and unintended pregnancy. 

Condoms and the dental dam—methods that provide a physical barrier—give the best protection from STIs. Condoms also provide some protection from pregnancy.

Many birth control methods provide no protection against STIs. The safest way to have sex is by using a physical barrier (like a condom) combined with birth control.

Here are the basic steps to use a male condom:

Tips for Using Male and Female Condoms

Condoms are only effective if you use them properly. Use these tips to make sure you don’t get pregnant and to protect you against STIs.

  • Store properly at room temperature, in a dry place and away from direct sunlight. Don’t let them freeze or get too hot.
  • Check the expiry date. Do not use expired condoms.
  • Put the condom on before genitals touch. Condoms are effective only if they form a barrier between genitals.
  • Use extra lube to help prevent them breaking and to make it easier to use them.
  • Use a condom only once. Throw it in the garbage right away after use—not in the toilet. Use a new condom for each sexual activity.
  • Use a condom every time. Unprotected sex puts you at risk for STIs and pregnancy. Condoms create a physical barrier and the best protection against STIs.
  • Use only one condom at a time. Never use a male and female condom at the same time, or two male or two female condoms at the same time.

Some people are allergic to the latex in condoms. Signs of an allergy include burning, itching, or swelling after using a condom. If you or your partner thinks you are allergic, try non-latex condoms. Ask a nurse for help choosing the right ones.

A female condom is a pre-lubricated tube, with a ring at each end, and closed at one end. It collects sperm before, during, and after ejaculation.

Practice placing a condom in your vagina, before you use it for the first time during sex. Find a comfortable position that works for you—squatting, lying down, or standing with one foot on a chair. You can insert the condom up to eight hours before you have sex.

Tips for Using Male and Female Condoms

Condoms are only effective if you use them properly. Use these tips to make sure you don’t get pregnant and to protect you against STIs.

  • Store properly at room temperature, in a dry place and away from direct sunlight. Don’t let them freeze or get too hot.
  • Check the expiry date. Do not use expired condoms.
  • Put the condom on before genitals touch. Condoms are effective only if they form a barrier between genitals.
  • Use extra lube to help prevent them breaking and to make it easier to use them.
  • Use a condom only once. Throw it in the garbage right away after use—not in the toilet. Use a new condom for each sexual activity.
  • Use a condom every time. Unprotected sex puts you at risk for STIs and pregnancy. Condoms create a physical barrier and the best protection against STIs.
  • Use only one condom at a time. Never use a male and female condom at the same time, or two male or two female condoms at the same time.

Some people are allergic to the latex in condoms. Signs of an allergy include burning, itching, or swelling after using a condom. If you or your partner thinks you are allergic, try non-latex condoms. Ask a nurse for help choosing the right ones.

A dental dam can protect you against many STIs. It covers the vagina or anus during oral sex. Follow these easy instructions to make your own. You need a pair of scissors and a male condom.