Condoms are a type of contraception that stop sperm and STIs from passing between sexual partners. A condom is a thin rubber barrier that is rolled onto the penis before sex.  

Condoms protect against sexually transmissible infections (STIs), as well as unintended pregnancy.

Condoms are used for vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

WHERE CAN I GET CONDOMS?

You can get condoms from Family Planning. Our nurses and doctors can give you a prescription to take to the pharmacy. Condoms are free to collect, if you have a prescription. You might be able to talk with a nurse on the phone and get a prescription for condoms, without needing to come into a clinic. If you come into the clinic for a prescription, there may be an appointment fee. 

You can also buy condoms from pharmacies, supermarkets, dairies, pubs, public toilets, petrol stations, nightclubs, sex shops, and online, but it’s cheaper to get them on prescription from our clinics, a sexual health centre or a doctor. 

You are legally allowed to buy condoms at any age.

Internal condoms are also available from pharmacies and from our web shop.

WHY USE CONDOMS?

They help protect against pregnancy and sexually transmissible infections (STIs), including HIV which can lead to AIDS. Condoms let men take some of the responsibility for safer sex and contraception.

Condoms:

• Are easy to get
• Are easy to use
• Have no side effects (unless you are allergic to rubber)
• Help prevent cancer of the cervix.

How to use a CONDOM 

1. Check the condom pack to make sure the expiry date has not passed.

2. Open the packet carefully. Fingernails, rings, and teeth can tear the condom.

3. Make sure your penis does not touch your partner’s vagina, mouth, or anus before being covered by a condom.

4. Check the condom is the right way up.

5. Pinch the tip of the condom to remove any air.

6. Roll the condom on the hard penis all the way down to the base. If it doesn't roll, it means you have the condom on the wrong way and you could expose your partner to pre-cum which can result in pregnancy and/or STIs. If this happens, make sure you get a new condom and start over again. 

7. Use water-based lube.

8. After cumming and when withdrawing hold the condom on the base of the penis so that no semen is spilt.

9. Wrap the used condom in tissue or toilet paper and put it in the rubbish.

10. Use a new condom and lube each time you have sex.