Protection against STI's -Condoms

The most effective way to protect yourself and your partner(s) from the risk of infection from STIs is the use of condoms and water-based lubricant - every time when you get fucked or fuck. In the past, condoms have been made out of all sorts of materials: horn or tortoise shell for that extra sensitive gentle touch, oiled paper, linen or animal gut. Up until the 1930s rubber condoms were thick, washable and re-usable. However, the development of latex in the later 1930s meant that thinner, disposable condoms could be produced. More recently we have seen the arrival of a polyurethane condom which is said to be twice as strong as latex and it's bloody expensive! However, being thinner, sensitivity should be greater and it is the only condom which can be used with oil-based lubricants.



Different shaped condoms are designed for different shaped cocks, so experiment. Although you can get extra large condoms, most come in two widths, 49mm and 52mm, and in a variety of shapes: ribbed, straight, plain-ended, flared and contoured. Most condoms are lubricated with sensitol, nonoxynol 9 or a spermicide. There are also flavoured condoms which usually taste revolting, but you can be pleasantly surprised. Used more often for sucking they are not recommended for fucking.

Stronger condoms

These include brands like Durex Extra Safe, Mates Superstrong, HT Specials and Safeguard Special. Obviously thicker condoms will lessen sensitivity of the cock. If this is a problem for you, try using one of the thinner brands of condoms along with plenty of water-based lubricant but check it while you're fucking as there may be a greater chance of the condom tearing. Also, a drop of water-based lubricant in the condom (or placed on the end of you cock) before rolling it on may increase sensitivity. Although thicker condoms offer better protection under ideal circumstances, the benefits are probably outweighed if your dick is so de-sensitised that you have to shunt about for hours on end like an inter-city 125 before you can cum. (If you do tend to cum too quickly - a thicker condom may help delay your orgasm.)

Standards and condom failure

You should ensure that the 'CE' or 'British Standard Kitemark' is displayed on the packet, and although no condom is guaranteed not to break they will have been rigorously tested. There are two reasons why condoms fail: product failure (something was wrong with the condom when it was made) and user failure (when people haven't followed the instructions properly). Trials (involving vaginal intercourse) over several years have shown that condoms are very effective for regular users. It's unfamiliarity and poor technique which can cause problems.

Using condoms

If you're going to fuck make sure you have a pack to hand and remove all pets and ex-boyfriends from the area!

Place some lube on a finger or two and gently work it up his arsehole. He'll get more pleasure if he's relaxed and the rubber is less likely to tear. Checking the use-by date first, take the rubber out of its wrapper avoiding sharp/jagged finger nails, teeth and cheap jewellery.

With a thumb and forefinger pinch the end of the rubber as this will get rid of the air and make room for the cum. Make sure it's not upside down or you won't be going anywhere! Then, roll it all the way down your dick. A hard dick makes this easier to do but it may go soft at this point. Simply work up some steam and - using a new rubber - try again later.

Rubbers do make a difference: you can't feel as much and they can be awkward to use. But every six hours there is a new HIV infection between gay men in the UK. Using rubber and lube every time you get fucked or fuck greatly reduces the risk HIV infection. Rubbers help protect against other sexually transmitted infections including gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes, hepatitis, and NSU. Wanking with rubbers can also improve your technique and get you into the idea of using them.

Smother your dick with lube and ask him if he's ready before putting it up his arse. Enter slowly, if you go in quickly you could hurt him. Once inside, off you go... checking occasionally to see that the rubber is still in place and intact. When you've finished, hold the rubber at the base of your dick before pulling out. You don't want to lose it up his arse do you? Don't leave the rubber lying around for children to find as there is a risk of suffocation! Knot it, wrap it in a tissue or loo roll and bin it. (Not down the toilet, it will bob back up).

Now, take a break... put on the kettle... leave... start again... or fall asleep in his arms.

This online advice guide is an extract from the book TOGETHER, by kind permission of Patriic Gayle and Gay Times Books. The book itself is over 300 pages long and contains:

several chapters more useful advice and information

more in-depth information in some chapters

more pictures and tables

further contacts at the end of each chapter

a comprehensive listing of gay and health organisations

Described by Qx magazine as a 'Gay Bible', Together Book is a practical reference work no bookshelf should be without.

Available from Prowler Stores and all good bookshops, or click the link below for price and ordering details.

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