Condoms

Does a condom really provide sufficient protection from HIV infection?

If it doesn’t rupture or slide off, a condom provides excellent protection from HIV infection, the cause of Aids, during intercourse. All Aids counselling services recommend the use of products with the “ok” seal of approval. When using condoms, pay attention to the following:

• right size (there are different sizes available!)
• careful storage, expiry date
• be careful when opening the package
• unroll correctly
• only use water-soluble lubricants, never oil-based substances such as vaseline, body lotion, butter, oils etc.
• when withdrawing, hold the condom at the base of the penis

The only risk with the use of approved condoms is condom failure, which is almost always caused by improper handling.

What does condom failure mean with regard to the risk of HIV transmission?

If a condom rips or slips off during intercourse, it no longer provides protection. Therefore, condom failure, just like unprotected intercourse, constitutes a risk of HIV infection.
Condom failure of quality-approved condoms is almost always caused by improper handling. It is important to pay proper attention with regard to choice, storage, opening and putting on the condoms. Don’t use oil-based lubricants, and always hold on to the condom at the base of the penis when withdrawing.

Is there a small risk if traces of vaginal secretions or sperm get on the outside of the condom?

No studies are available on this. Based on present experience however the risk of infection this way is highly improbable.

If you stick to the simple rules of safe sex, there is no need to worry about some other theoretically possible means of HIV transmission.

I want my partner to use a condom. How can I achieve this?

Tell your partner right at the beginning that you will only have sex with a condom. Don’t wait until the heat of the moment... because who is going to worry about your protection other than yourself? If he refuses to use a condom, you can always say NO! It often takes courage and self-confidence to demand the use of condoms. Your regional Aids counselling service is there to help and advise you.

When I use a condom, I don't get aroused anymore. What can I do?

Maybe you are one of those men who find the use of a condom bothersome or even a turn-off. Or you are afraid of losing your erection? In any case, condoms are still the only means of effective protection from HIV infection.
Discover the playful side of the use of condoms: It may help if you practise the use of condoms by yourself. You may also both enjoy putting it on as a sort of foreplay. Chose the approved condom that is right for you.
Aids counselling services recommend condoms with the “ok” seal of approval. Read the instructions and check the expiry date.

I have physical allergies to condoms. What can I do?

Condoms sold in Switzerland are usually made of natural rubber (latex). If you have a known latex allergy or if you suspect that you have one (localised itching, burning or pain), you can use condoms made of Duron (polyurethane), sold under the brand names Ceylor non-latex or Durex Avanti. Femidom, the condom for women, is also latex free. Ask a specialist, e.g. in a condomeria or a pharmacy, for these products. If you currently suffer from a latex irritation, let the symptoms heal before switching to polyurethane condoms.

It is often not the latex itself that causes irritation. Approximately 90% of all allergic reactions in the genital area are caused by spermicide-coated condoms containing the agent nonoxynol 9 (e.g. Ceylor Gold). Use a condom without spermicidal lubricant.
Sometimes it is also the silicone contained in many lubricants that causes problems.

In any case it is advisable to discuss any allergic reactions with your doctor.