Condoms protect you from HIV and lower the risk of infection with sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea and hepatitis B and C. You should be immunized against hepatitis B if you have sex with multiple partners.
Condoms are available in drug stores, supermarkets, pharmacies and sex shops, and there are also condom vending machines. Condoms and lubricant are also available at places for men who have sex with men saunas, darkroom bars, sex cinemas.
Standard-size condoms are well suited to most men. Larger and smaller condoms are also available. Condom designs in which a special ring in the middle of the condom prevents it from slipping off are also suitable for smaller penises. Important: condoms only offer reliable protection when they are used properly. You should keep trying out condoms until you get the size and how to use them right!
If the condom ever comes off or tears , the risk of an HIV infection can still be greatly reduced see "Safer Sex accident ". In addition to our local, free telephone counselling, there is also the nationwide telephone counselling service of the Deutsche Aidshilfe. Free brochures and materials are available at the infotheque on aidshilfe. Tips for use The following should be observed when using condoms: Use condoms of certified quality identifiable by the CE-standards mark and DIN-test number, for example and make note of the use-by date.
Do not use a sharp-edged item knife or scissors or your teeth to open the wrapper. Be careful with long fingernails! Only put the condom on once the penis is erect. Pull back the foreskin and place the condom, with the ring facing outwards, over the glans. Press the reservoir on the tip of the condom together with your fingers to expel the air. Then use the other hand to roll the condom down completely.
