
So things are heating up and heading for the bedroom. But before one thing leads to another, there is one little thing that will have to come in between you and him – a condom.
Any deep discussion on how condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted infections can feel like cold water thrown at a moment of passion. And really, what is there to talk about that any grown man doesn't already know? That condoms are the best way to protect yourself from HIV and STIs? That they are also the best way to prevent unwanted pregnancies? How about the fact that, if used correctly, condoms have a success rate of over 90 per cent?
If cold hard facts do not convince him to slip a condom on, then perhaps it's time to stop talking and take action instead.
Buying a condom shouldn’t be his sole responsibility. Neither should it be some cloak-and-dagger affair at the convenience store. Make it a fun activity, and a chance for the two of you to bond and communicate without feeling embarrassed. For example, there can be discussions aplenty over the many condom choices out there -- ribbed or lubricated? Cherry- or banana-flavoured? You can even buy a variety to experiment and see which one suits you best. If nothing else, talking about how many to purchase -- logically leading to the conclusion of how many times he is going to get lucky -- should be quite a turn-on.
In any relationship, there is always give and take. Likewise in the boudoir. Perhaps you can offer to perform his favourite bedroom trick or give a relaxing back rub, if he agrees to wear a condom. Bribery can also take the form of, say, a delicious home-cooked meal.
If you want him to wear it well, the first step would be to learn how to put it on without fumbling. This is not the time to be shy or coy. But if you are truly embarrassed, practise beforehand on a fruit or vegetable - bananas and cucumbers come to mind. Trust me, if done with the right sexy moves, it can be more of a turn-on for a woman to put a condom on a man than for him to do it himself.
First, carefully open the package, taking care not to rip the condom inside. Make sure it is not inside out and unroll it slightly. You can add a few drops of lubricant inside, which helps to prevent it from breaking when it is in use. Hold the tip and roll it down his shaft.
If you made a show about putting it on, how about removing it for him too? To take it off safely, hold on firm to the mouth of the condom after he ejaculates, while the penis is still erect, to prevent leakage of semen. Unroll it gently, then wrap it up in tissue and pop it straight into the bin. And don’t even think of re-using a condom - like tissue paper, it’s for one-time use only.
Laughter may be the best medicine, but it is also the best tool of seduction. Which must explain why condom-makers frequently use humour in their advertisements. These ads make great talking points – and ice-breakers – when introducing the topic of wearing condoms. You’ll find this ad on the Internet, for instance, in which a little boy is bawling up a storm in a supermarket, while his helpless father just stands by resignation. The words that appear at the end? "Use condoms". Alternatively, look for funny condom products, such as one which measures length when it is worn, as a great way to add some giggles and fun to the night's proceedings.
If, after all your efforts, he still refuses to wear a rubber during sex, then clearly, this man is not worth your trouble. At the very least, you should be concerned about his lack of respect for your wishes and consideration for your health. It may be time to rethink your relationship.