Dear wlover,

Condoms can break for many reasons. Most often they break if they are not put on properly, if they have passed their expiration date, or if the wrong kind of lubricant is used with them. (Using any oil-based lubricant with a latex condom can cause breakage.)

The following tips can help people know how to use condoms correctly:

• Put the condom on before inserting the penis.
• Use a condom only once, and use a new one for each hard-on. Always make sure you have several condoms on hand.
• Be careful when taking the condom out of its package foil. You don't want to tear it. If the condom is not lubricated, put a drop or two of water-based lubricant inside of it.
• If the penis is not circumcised, pull back the foreskin before rolling on the condom.
• Place the rolled condom over the tip of the hard penis. (If keeping a hard-on is an issue, you may want to try female condoms that stay in place whether or not a guy keeps his erection.)
• Leave a half-inch space at the tip to collect semen.
• Pinch the air out of the tip with one hand. (Friction against air bubbles causes most condom breaks.)
• Unroll the condom over the penis with the other hand.
• Roll it all the way down to the base of the penis.
• Smooth out any air bubbles.
• If the condom is not lubricated, put a water-based lubricant on the outside of the condom.
• After ejaculation, it's important to pull out before the penis softens. Don't spill the semen — hold the condom against the base of the penis while you pull out.
• Throw the condom away — do not flush.

Condoms reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections when used correctly.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.