Condoms have gotten a bad rap over the years. Some guys claim that they reduce the sensation and pleasure they feel. Some women believe that a lover will only insist on one if he’s been cheating on her. Crazy stuff! Having sex without a condom is like gambling with your life. It’s a risk that is too high to consider.

Condoms don’t have to kill the mood – they remain the best way to make sure your sex life doesn’t spill into your daily life. With that kind of peace of mind, sex can be even better.

Follow these tips and turn up the sex appeal as you roll on the condom!

Back to basics. Do you know how to put on a condom correctly? Once you’ve checked the expiry date and unwrapped it, with the ring facing outside, hold the tip that collects the semen.

Lose the air. Squeeze the tip so that no air gets in. Place the condom on the head of his penis. Roll the sides down all the way using your other hand. Remove any air bubbles.

Let him lead. Here he gets to show you how he prefers things done. Once the condom is on the head of his penis, tell him to put his hand over yours and guide you as you slide it on him.

Mouth-to-head. Put the condom in your mouth with the tip on your tongue and press your lips together so the condom stays in place. Put your mouth around him and use your wet lips and then your hands to help push it down the shaft. Avoid touching the bare skin with your mouth.

Remember - never have sex without using a condom. Only condoms can prevent an STI, pregnancy and HIV. You can get them at health facilities, pharmacies, shops and hospitals – use them!