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- MENSTRUAL HEALTH
- CONTRACEPTION
- MENOPAUSE FAQSTALK MENOPAUSE


EXTERNAL
(MALE) CONDOM
- HOW EFFECTIVE ARE CONDOMS?expand_less
When used correctly, the male condom is 98% effective. But that’s not always the case - with typical, imperfect use the male condom is only 82%.
- WHAT SIZE CONDOM DO I NEED?expand_more
You should measure you or your partner for a condom. To do this, measure the penis whilst it is erect. Measure from the base of the penis (where the condom would stop rolling) to the tip of the penis. To measure girth, measure around the mid-point of the penis shaft. If you have a girth of less than 4.7″, it needs a snug fit. a girth of 4.7–5.1″ needs a regular fit. a girth of 5.1–6″ needs a large fit.
- CAN I USE LUBE WITH CONDOMS?expand_more
Condoms are pre lubricated to make them easier to use, but you can also use additional lubricant (lube). Oil-based products, such as moisturiser, lotion and Vaseline can damage latex and polyisoprene condoms, but they are safe to use with polyurethane condoms. Water-based lubricant is safe to use with all condoms.
- DO CONDOMS BREAK AND SLIP OFF FREQUENTLY?expand_more
No. When used as directed, condoms should not break or slip off. You may find that it is breaking or slipping off because it does not fit properly. There are lots of different sizes and options, so it's worth trying a few styles out.

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PP-UN-WHC-GB-0304 July 2025