Sexual Health

Condoms, Personal Lubricants, and Foams & Inserts!

How to Use Condoms
Handle condoms gently. Store them in a cool, dry place. Long exposure to air, heat, and light makes them more breakable. Do not stash them continually in a back pocket, wallet, or glove compartment. Lubricate the inside and outside of the condom. (Many condoms are pre-lubricated.) Lubrication helps prevent rips and tears, and it increases sensitivity. Use water-based lubricants, such as K-Y jelly or AstroGlide, or silicone-based lubricants, such as Eros, with latex condoms. Oil-based lubricants like petroleum jelly, cold cream, butter, or mineral and vegetable oils damage latex.

Pregnancy Prevention
Studies have shown that condoms are one of the most reliable methods for preventing unwanted pregnancy. In addition to being effective, condoms are also inexpensive and are available without a prescription.

Vaginal Dryness & Lubricants
There are many uses for personal lubrication, but many people do not know the facts about Astroglide, Sliquid, and other such personal lubricants. Personal lubricants are often used for intercourse, but a new use is to treat vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness can occur at any time in a female's life, but it often occurs during pregnancy or following childbirth. It is a very uncomfortable condition and at some point in a woman's life she is likely to experience vaginal dryness. It is also sometimes caused by low estrogen levels.

Personal Lubes
There are certain personal lubricants that should be avoided. Never use cooking oils, Vasaline, or petrolium-based products. These products harbor bacteria, causing yeast infections among others, and can cause the breakdown of the latex in condoms. Never use oil-based lubricants with condoms. The more appropriate choice is to use water-based personal lubrication. Astroglide is one example of a water-based personal lubricant. Some others are K-Y Jelly, Aqualube, and Wet. These lubes are all water-based and safe to use with latex condoms.