Using Condoms And Foam

How Do Condoms And Foam Work?

A condom is made of thin rubber or latex. It looks like a balloon and fits over the penis. It can be bought with or without lubrication. A condom prevents sperm from entering the woman's body.
Contraceptive foam contains an ingredient that kills sperm. It also helps to keep the sperm from entering the uterus.

How Effective Are Condoms And Foam?

Condoms and foam are 96% effective in preventing pregnancy. Condoms used alone are only 90% effective. Foam used alone is 80% effective.

Condoms and foam also help prevent sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, herpes, gonorrhea, AIDS/HIV and genital warts.

Where Can I Get Condoms And Foam?

Both can be bought at any drugstore without a prescription. Some clinics also provide quality condoms.

How Do We Use Condoms?

Store condoms in a cool, dry place. Avoid temperature extremes, especially heat.

• Check expiry date on the package.
• Open package carefully, along the side. (Fingernails or teeth can tear a condom.)
• Put condom on as soon as penis is hard and before it touches the vagina.
• Pinch air from tip of the condom before putting it on the penis. This leaves space to collect the sperm.
• Place condom on the end of the hard penis.
• Unroll all the way down.
• Use water-based K-Y Jelly, Lubafax, contraceptive foam, or water if lubrication is needed.
• Do not use Vaseline, oil or hand lotion, as these can weaken a condom and make it break.
• After sex, hold onto the condom and pull out. Do not wait until the penis becomes soft or the condom may fall off and leak sperm.
• Use a new condom every time you have sex.

How Do We Use Foam?

• The first package you buy should contain an applicator. Refill packages can be bought after this. Make sure you buy contraceptive foam and not a feminine hygiene product!
• Check expiry date on the package.
• Use foam before there is any contact between the penis and vagina.
• You must shake the container 20 times to make sure the spermicide is well mixed.
• Place the applicator over the nozzle on the can and press down until the applicator is full.
• Place the applicator inside the vagina as far as it will go then pull it back about half an inch.
• Push the plunger to release the foam.
• If 30 minutes have passed before you have sex, put another full applicator inside the vagina. One full applicator is needed EACH TIME you have sex.
• Do not douche or wash the foam away for 6-8 hours. Avoid having a bath or swimming.
• Store the contraceptive foam at room temperature.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call or visit one of our Sexual Health Clinic Locations In Grey Bruce.