Use a Condom!
Okay, so... condoms. You've probably been handed one in a health class, seen them at the pharmacy, or maybe asked Claude something about them at 1am. But somehow, with all that exposure, there's still a lot of confusion about what they actually are, what's in them, and how to use them properly.
This is your one-stop guide. We're covering everything!! How condoms work, the different types, what ingredients to watch out for, how to actually use one correctly, and how to find the right fit for your body and your sex life. No judgment, no bullsh*t. Just the stuff you actually need to know.
Each section below links to its own deeper-dive article, so you can go as far down the rabbit hole as you want.
So... What Does a Condom Actually Do?
A condom is a thin barrier that goes on or inside the body during sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy. The most common kind, the external condom, rolls onto a penis, clit, or dildo. Then there's the internal condom, which is inserted into the vagina or anus before sex. Both work by creating a physical barrier between bodies.
Used correctly and consistently, external condoms are up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy AND they're the only method that protects against both pregnancy and STIs at the same time. That's a really big deal.
The World Health Organization recognizes condoms as one of the most accessible and effective tools for sexual health globally — and unlike most other contraceptive methods, they work both ways.
The Different Types of Condoms
Not all condoms are the same, which is actually great news. There are options for different bodies, preferences, allergies, and situations. Here's the quick version. For the full breakdown, head to our article on condom types explained.
External Condoms
Roll onto a penis/cock/dick, clit, or dildo before sex. Available in latex, polyisoprene, polyurethane, and lambskin; each with different feels, allergy profiles, and lube compatibility. (Note: lambskin doesn't protect against STIs, so it's not the move if that's a concern!!)
Internal Condoms
Inserted into the vagina or anus before sex. Made from nitrile, so they're latex-free and work with any lube. They also put protection in the hands of the receptive partner, which is worth knowing and really considering!
Ultra-Thin, Textured, Flavoured...
Ultra-thin condoms offer the same protection with more sensation. Textured ones (ribbed, dotted) may add stimulation (but are a lot of marketing BS if you ask us). Flavoured condoms are designed for oral sex, PLEASE not for vaginal or anal use, since the sugars can mess with your pH.
What's Actually Inside Your Condom?
Here's something a lot of people don't think to check: condom ingredients. And it matters, because your genitals are some of the most absorptive tissue on your body. A lot of mainstream condoms come packed with additives you genuinely don't need and some that can actively cause issues...
The ones to know about:
- Spermicide (Nonoxynol-9) — marketed as extra protection but research shows it can damage vaginal and anal tissue, actually increasing STI risk with repeated use
- Glycerin — a sugar alcohol that can disrupt vaginal pH and trigger yeast infections in people prone to them
- Parabens — preservatives linked to hormone disruption and skin irritation
- Artificial fragrances, flavours & dyes — zero protective benefit, common irritants
- Nitrosamines — byproducts of latex processing, flagged as potential carcinogens in some studies
Research published on PubMed specifically found that nonoxynol-9 can increase vulnerability to STIs with frequent use — the opposite of what it's supposed to do. More on all of this in our article on how to choose a non-toxic condom.
If You Have Sensitive Skin (AND / OR Keep Getting Irritated After Sex Without Knowing Why)
Itching, burning, redness, or recurring infections after sex? A lot of people chalk this up to friction or just "how their body is." But often, it's the condom, specifically what's in it!!
Signs your condom might be the culprit:
- Itching or burning during or shortly after sex
- Redness or swelling in sensitive areas
- Recurring yeast infections or BV
- General rawness or dryness that correlates with condom use
A lot of the time this isn't a latex allergy, it's a reaction to the additives. Switching to a better condom (spermicide-free, paraben-free, glycerin-free) can make a huge difference. We get into all of it in our article on the best condoms for sensitive skin.
How to Actually Use a Condom
Using a condom correctly isn't rocket science, but there are a handful of things people get wrong that really do affect how well it works. The full step-by-step is in our article on [How to Use a Condom] but here's a cheat sheet:
- Check, Unwrap & Orient — Confirm consent, check the expiry date, and orient the condom right-side up like a little hat.
- Pinch & Place — Pinch the tip and place it on the head of the erect phallus; avoid oil-based lubes as they break down latex.
- Roll & Wet — Roll it down the shaft while holding the tip, then add lube to the outside for extra comfort.
- Have Sex — Use a new condom if you switch between types of sex or if it breaks.
- Cum — Hold the rim at the base as you pull out, then carefully remove and toss the condom in the trash.
- Keep Going — Use a new condom after every ejaculation or whenever switching partners.
Lube compatibility matters: oil-based lubes (coconut oil, Vaseline, lotion) break down latex. ONLY use water-based or silicone-lubes with latex or polyisoprene condoms.
What to Look for When Choosing a Condom
Short version: fewer ingredients, better ingredients. Here's the checklist:
- Spermicide-free — no nonoxynol-9
- No parabens or glycerin — your body doesn't need them and can lead to unwanted reactions
- No artificial fragrances, flavours, or dyes
- Lubricated with something body-safe — 100% silicone-lube is hypoallergenic and long-lasting
- FDA, Health Canada or CE certified — baseline safety testing matters
- The right fit — too tight or too loose both increase the chance of it not working properly
FAQ - Lingering Questions
Can I use two condoms at once?
Nope. Two condoms create friction against each other, which actually makes both more likely to break. One condom used correctly beats two every time!!
What if I'm allergic to latex?
Good news: you've got options. Polyisoprene feels the closest to latex and offers the same protection. Polyurethane is another solid choice. Internal condoms are made from nitrile and are latex-free too. If you're not sure whether it's latex or the additives causing issues, try a clean, additive-free latex option first before switching materials entirely.
Do condoms protect against all STIs?
They're very effective against STIs spread through fluids: HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia. For skin-to-skin infections like herpes or HPV, they reduce risk but don't eliminate it entirely since these can affect areas the condom can't cover. Still: definitely better than nothing!
Why Jems?
Jems is a female-founded sexual wellness brand redefining the category with body-safe, design-forward essentials made with transparent ingredients. We create better-for-you condoms, lubricant, and wipes that support safer sex as part of everyday wellness.
Check out our bundles if you want to stock up.
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