Condoms for males are thin, stretchy sheaths that cover your penis. They are easy to use, usually cost between 50c and a dollar, and come in various sizes, colors, and textures.

• Latex condoms

  These are the most common type. Don’t use oil-based lube with latex condoms because it will cause the condom to break.

• Polyurethane condoms

  These are a good alternative for people allergic to latex. You can use oil-based lube with polyurethane condoms, and they are just as effective in protecting against STIs as latex condoms.

• Lambskin condoms

  These DO NOT protect against STIs, including HIV, and are not recommended by the FDA for this use.

• Flavored condoms

  These are great for oral sex by preventing the transmission of STIs to your throat. BUT they can be harmful for vaginal or anal sex due to the sugars on them.

The FC2 Condom is a thin, flexible film that can protect your vagina or anus (butt).

• For vaginal sex

  The FC2 fits inside the vagina and covers the vulva. The penis doesn't have to stay hard for the entire time this type of condom is being used. It helps females prevent pregnancy and STIs without having to rely on a male partner putting a condom on his penis. The FC2 is made of polyurethane, a good alternative for people with latex allergies.

• For anal sex

  The FC2 can also be used for anal sex. The FDA has approved the FC2 for anal sex as a single-use internal condom.

• Store condoms in a cool, dark, dry place—they break down faster if they are exposed to heat or cold. Also, check the expiration date before opening because expired condoms break easier.
• Use a new condom before any new genital contact and throughout the entire sex act, from start to finish.
• When you open the package, be careful not to nick or tear the condom with your fingernails or teeth.

Male condoms

1. While some condoms are pre-lubricated, you may want to add more lube inside and outside the condom, and to your partner.
2. To put the condom on, hold the tip between your thumb and forefinger. Leaving a space at the head of the penis for semen, use your other hand to add a small amount of lube to the tip of the condom, then unroll it over the erect penis shaft all the way to the base of the penis. If you accidentally put a condom on inside out, replace it with a new one. Reusing the side that touched the penis can possibly transfer an STI.
3. Smooth out any air bubbles—they can cause condoms to break.
4. To remove the condom, hold it at the base of your penis and pull out of your partner's vagina or anus while your penis is still erect, making sure that semen doesn’t spill out. Roll the condom gently towards the penis head, remove it, and then throw it in the trash. 

Tips

• Put a drop of lube inside the male condom to increase sensation.
• Pull back the penis foreskin before rolling on a male condom.
• DO store condoms at your nightstand, or in a mint tin, or the side pocket of a bag for on-the-go.
• DON’T store condoms near heat, like in your pocket, glove compartment, or wallet.
• Watch a video to see how to put on a condom

FC2 condoms

1. FC2s are pre-lubricated inside so rub the outside of the pouch to make sure the lube is spread evenly.
2. Get into a comfortable position like putting one leg up on a chair, lying on your back with your knees up, or squatting.
3. Hold the FC2 by the closed end, squeezing the inner ring between your thumb and forefinger.
4. Gently and slowly insert the inner ring into the vagina or anal canal.
5. Push into the FC2 with your index finger, further into the vagina or anal canal, making sure the outer ring is not twisted and lies right outside the vagina or anal canal.
6. Guide the penis into the vaginal or anal canal so that the penis doesn’t unintentionally slide under the outer silicone ring.
7. Stop if the penis slips outside of the FC2 during sex.
8. To remove, squeeze and twist the outer ring to gently pull out the FC2, then throw it in the trash.

Vaginal: [see p.2 of this pdf for infographics]

Anal: [see p. 2 of this pdf for infographics]

Tips

• When using the FC2 for anal sex, some people find it helpful to remove the inner ring before inserting.
• You can either insert the FC2 before things get heated and to have more control, or you can use it as foreplay!
• DO store condoms at your nightstand, or in a mint tin, or the side pocket of a bag for on-the-go.
• DON’T store condoms near heat, like in your pocket, glove compartment, or wallet.

If a condom breaks during intercourse, pull the penis out and replace the condom. If semen leaks into the vagina or anus, ask a healthcare provider about emergency contraception and/or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV within 72 hours.

You can get male and FC2 condoms, free or at low cost throughout San Francisco: 

• Here at San Francisco City Clinic: 356 7th Street, San Francisco
• Public Health Division: 25 Van Ness Avenue, 5th Floor, San Francisco

You can also buy condoms at local pharmacies and stores, including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart and Target.