Carrying a condom is a good idea, but carrying one in a hip wallet for long periods of time can shorten the shelf life. Natural skin condoms have not been proven as an effective barrier to HIV so use latex condoms. Polyurethane condoms have not been shown to be as effective as latex, but are recommended for people allergic to latex. The spermicide nonoxynol-9, contained in some lubricated condoms, has not been shown to affect HIV transmission. If nonoxynol-9 irritates your skin or that of your partner's, it should not be used because broken skin can increase the risk of HIV transmission.
Extra lubricant can prevent condom breakage.
A small amount of lubricant inside the tip of the condom before you put it on may enhance sensation. Roll the condom onto the penis as soon as it is hard, or let your partner put it onto you. Drops of semen oozing from the penis before ejaculation contain virus and may infect or impregnate your partner. Hold the condom at the rim, withdraw from your partner, and remove the condom soon after ejaculation, before the penis becomes soft inside your partner. Keep the used condom away from your partner's body, wrap in tissue and dispose of it in a plastic trash bag.