C- Card Information

What is a C-Card?

A C-Card is the card you are given when you join the C-Card scheme. It means you can get free condoms at different places across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

How do I get a C-Card?

Look out for a silver C-Card sign. All you need to do then is register and the only personal details we need are your date of birth and postcode. That's it!

Where can I register for a C-Card?

@Young People's Centres, Brook, SHARE, Youth Clubs/Centres, Colleges, GPs. Follow link to up-to-date list of registration sites: Places to Find a C-Card

How do I get FREE condoms?

Register for a C-Card and you'll get your free condoms straight away. You can then use your C-Card to get free condoms wherever you see the C-Card sign.

Why do I need to use condoms?

Condoms should be used every time you have vaginal, anal and oral sex to protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Warts, Genital Herpes and HIV amongst others, and to prevent unintended pregnancies. STIs are much more common than you think and often there are no symptoms.

HOW TO USE A CONDOM

Lubricants

Sometimes you may wish to use a lubricant. If you do, it must be water-based, such as Pasante Lube or KY Jelly. Did you know that oil-based lubricants like Vaseline or baby oil, can rot a condom? So don't use them!

Sometimes a Condom can tear or split, how does this happen?

• Tearing the condom when opening the packet, be careful of fingernails or jewellery, don't use anything sharp to open the condom wrapper.
• Using oil-based lubricants such as Vaseline.
• Not expelling the air out of the teat, make sure you pinch the teat (carefully) before putting the condom on.
• Using out of date or damaged condoms.
• When used for anal sex without a lubricant.

What should I do if a condom splits?

Use emergency contraception. There are two types:

• EHC Emergency Hormonal Contraception can be used within 72 hours, but is most effective if taken within 24 hours after unprotected sex.
• IUD or Coil, this can be fitted up to 5 days after having unprotected sex.

If you've had unprotected sex (you haven't used a condom or the condom splits) or you think you have an STI, then contact GUM Clinic 01872 255044.

Where do I go for emergency contraception?

• Brook 01209 710088
• Contraception Services 01872 354393
• SHARE 0800 181033
• NHS Direct 0845 2647
• Your Local Pharmacist

For more information on any of the above call NHS Direct 0845 4647 or Sexwise 0800 282930 or www.ruthinking.co.uk / Or search emergency contraception.

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