Rubber Up!

Chapter 3

Choosing The Right Brands

Oral options

In Chapter 1 we explained that most AIDS organisations categorise oral sex as carrying only a very low risk of HIV infection. One option for people who are unwilling to take even that low risk is to use condoms for sucking.

If you’re in the market for condoms for oral sex, here are some things to think about:

• Flavoured novelty brands may be more pleasant to suck than standard brands. Spermicidally lubricated condoms are often the most unpleasant to suck, since they taste horrible and can numb your mouth.
• If you do buy flavoured condoms for sucking, keep them separate from the condoms you use for fucking, because flavoured brands only come as standard strength, not extra strong.
• If you can’t find flavoured condoms, try an unlubricated brand such as Gay Safe or Duo.
• See whether you prefer plain-ended condoms (such as Gay Safe) rather than teated ones – many people find that having a teat flopping around in their throat makes them gag.
• Be prepared for some resistance from your partner – research suggests that it’s quite rare for gay men to use condoms for sucking. But don’t feel that there’s anything wrong with making your own decisions about your the precautions you want to take against HIV, and sticking to them. For more advice on negotiating condom use, see Chapter 7.
• Try to incorporate the condom into the sex, perhaps by rolling it on with your mouth. The trick here is to place the rolled up condom against the surface of your closed teeth and use your lips to start it rolling over the head of his cock, while sucking in gently to hold the condom still. Then open your mouth and use your lips to roll the condom down his shaft as his cock enters your mouth. But remember to take care not to damage it with your teeth.