Condoms and lube: how to use them properly for anal sex

What does a condom protect against?

According to Sexosafe, condoms protect against HIV and limit exposure to other STIs. WHO notes that, used correctly and consistently, they’re the best way to prevent chlamydia during penetration. They protect less well against what spreads through skin (herpes, HPV, syphilis if the sore is outside the covered area, mpox).

They combine very well with PrEP, testing and vaccines.

How to put on an external condom

According to Sexosafe:

1. Open the wrapper with your fingers, never your teeth or scissors.
2. Place it on the head of the penis, the right way round (it must unroll downwards).
3. Pinch the tip to squeeze out air: an air bubble increases the risk of breaking.
4. Unroll it to the base of the erect penis.
5. Add lube to the condom and the anus.

After coming, pull out before losing your erection, holding the condom at the base, tie it and bin it. A new condom for each act and each partner, and never two on top of each other (friction = breakage).

Which lube to choose?

Sexosafe details compatibility:

Lube	Safe with latex condoms?	Good to know
Water-based	yes	not greasy, rarely allergenic, needs topping up
Silicone-based	yes	long-lasting glide, ideal for anal
Powder gel to mix	yes	handy for fisting
Oil, petroleum jelly, butter, cream	no	damages latex condoms and gloves

For anal sex, lube isn’t optional: the anus doesn’t lubricate itself, and dry friction is what breaks condoms and causes micro-tears. Spit isn’t enough.

The internal condom for anal sex

The internal condom (a.k.a. “female condom”) is a thin, soft sheath with a ring at each end. For anal use, Sexosafe explains you can remove the inner ring and place the outer ring at the entrance of the anus. Advantage: it can be put in beforehand and the bottom controls his own protection. It’s made of nitrile or polyurethane: compatible with every lube.

What if the condom breaks?

If the condom breaks, slips off or was removed without your consent (stealthing), and you aren’t on PrEP: go to A&E or a sexual health clinic within 48 hours for PEP, then get tested for STIs.

Where to get free condoms (France)?

At CeGIDD clinics, charities such as AIDES, sexual health centres and many gay venues. In pharmacies, some condoms are reimbursed on prescription and free for under-26s. Keep them away from heat and check the expiry date.