Condoms

Condoms protect you from HIV and lower the risk of infection with sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea and  hepatitis B and C. (You should be immunized against hepatitis B if you have sex with multiple partners.)

Condoms are available in drug stores, supermarkets, pharmacies and sex shops, and there are also condom vending machines. Condoms and lubricant are also available at places for men who have sex with men (saunas, darkroom bars, sex cinemas).

Standard-size condoms are well suited to most men. Larger and smaller condoms are also available. Condom designs in which a special ring in the middle of the condom prevents it from slipping off are also suitable for smaller penises.

Important: condoms only offer reliable protection when they are used properly. You should keep trying out condoms until you get the size and how to use them right!

If the condom ever comes off or tears , the risk of an HIV infection can still be greatly reduced (see "Safer Sex accident").