Dear Morgieporgie,

When used correctly, condoms rarely, if ever, break. Condoms can break for many reasons. Most breaks happen when condoms are not used correctly. Condoms can break if

• they are not put on properly
• the packet is opened with teeth, nails, or other sharp objects
• the condom is the wrong size
• the guy forgets to squeeze the air out of the tip when putting it on
• the condom is used after the expiration date
• the wrong kind of lubricant is used (Using any oil-based lubricant with a latex condom can cause breakage.)

Condoms break less when they are used by men who are used to using them. So guys should practice using condoms until they are comfortable with them — before they try to use them with a partner. Practicing with condoms while masturbating is a good way to learn to use them effectively. And practicing with different brands lets a guy find the one that fits just right — not too snug, not too loose. Used correctly, condoms are up to 98 percent effective against pregnancy and also reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections

Here are some tips how to use a condom 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 it down the toilet.

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.