External-use condom

Condoms are the only contraceptive method that protect against both STIs and unintended pregnancies.

External-use condoms: an overview

Condoms are the only contraceptive method that protect against both sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.

External condoms are made of latex and non-latex.

They provide a barrier to the ejaculate (come), pre-ejaculate (pre-come) and to vaginal or anal secretions.

Condoms can be used to prevent pregnancy when used alone and when used with another method of contraception.

Both external and internal-use condoms can be used for prevention of sexually transmitted infections and HIV. External condoms are the most frequently used of the two.

Condoms are a good method of contraception, if you remember to keep them with you when you think you are going to have sex. You should also be confident about putting them on, or asking your partner to put one on.

Watch this video for guidance on putting an external-use condom on.

Click here for an easy-read guide to putting an external-use condom on.

You can order free condoms from axess here.

Effectiveness
98%*
Lasts for
One use
Effect on blood cycle
None

*98% effective with perfect use. 88% effective with typical use.

Frequently Asked Questions


Can anything make condom use less effective?

A condom may be less effective if:

  • The penis touches the area around the vagina before a condom is put on
  • You have any penetrative vaginal sex before a condom is put on
  • The condom splits or comes off (if this happens, you may be using the wrong size)
  • The condom gets damaged by sharp fingernails, your teeth or jewellery
  • You use oil-based lubricants (such as lotion, baby oil, or petroleum jelly) with latex condoms, as this damages the condom
  • You are using medication for conditions like thrush, such as creams, pessaries, or suppositories - this can damage the latex condom
Will I be asked for ID when buying condoms?

No. There are no restrictions on buying condoms, or on getting free, confidential advice about using condoms or other contraception.

Do I need to use lubricant?

When using lubricant with latex condoms, a water or silicone-based lubricant is recommended.

Routine use of additional lubricant for vaginal sex is not required but can be used if preferred, or for those experiencing condom breakage.

The use of lubricant is recommended for anal sex, to reduce the risk of condom breakage.

The use of condoms lubricated with spermicide is not recommended.

Lubricant to the inside of the condoms or to the outside of the penis before using condoms is not recommended, as this increases the chance of the condom slipping off.

Why do condoms break or slip off?

Condoms breaking or slipping can often be because they do not fit properly.

There are different shapes and sizes of condoms available.

Condom breakage is the same for standard and thicker condoms, so there is no need to use thicker condoms for anal sex.

Lubricant to the inside of condoms or to the outside of the penis before using condoms is not recommended as this increases the chance of a condom slipping off.

If a condom breaks or slips off, it may be necessary to take emergency contraception. You will need to take post-exposure prophylaxis after sexual exposure to HIV. You should also get an STI test.

This should be discussed with a health professional as soon as possible after condomless sex.

The non-hormonal coil (IUD) can be used as emergency contraception up to five days after condomless sex, or 120 hours (five days) after ovulation.

Otherwise, depending on the type of pill, you need to take an emergency contraceptive pill up to 72 hours (three days) or up to 120 hours (five days) after condomless sex.