General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
If a condom tears or was not used during sex with possible HIV exposure, go as quickly as possible to a hospital emergency department or a French CeGIDD sexual-health testing centre. Ameli specifies: if possible within four hours, without exceeding forty-eight hours. A doctor assesses the situation and whether post-exposure treatment is needed.
Before use, check that the expiry date has not passed and the wrapper is in good condition. The packaging must carry the CE mark, which indicates conformity with European quality standards. These checks apply to both external and internal condoms.
A condom is for single use: never reuse it. Take a new one for each sex act and each partner.
Never use an external male condom and an internal female condom at the same time.
Do not use petroleum jelly, butter, oils or other fatty products with a condom: they may damage it.
If you have never put on a condom, practise before using one for the first time. A contraceptive pill, implant or intrauterine device does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so using one does not replace a condom for that protection.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.