Looks pretty simple, right? Well, putting on a male condom isn�t always as easy as it looks. But in order for a condom to be effective at preventing pregnancy and some sexually transmitted infections, it has to be used correctly�each and every time a person has sex.

Correct use means following these steps every time. When a condom breaks, it�s usually because one of these steps wasn�t followed. If the condom comes in a package, first read the directions, which should cover these same steps.

1.  Check the expiration date. Condoms that are older than the expiration date will be weaker and more likely to break.
2.  As soon as the penis becomes erect, unwrap the condom carefully and check to see which way the condom unrolls.
3.  Squeeze the air out of the tip of the condom.  This is important because if the air is not squeezed out, the condom could break. 
4.  Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis, leaving room at the tip to catch semen.
5. If you wish, add water-based lubricant to the outside of the condom. But only use water-based lube. A lube that has oil in it�like Vaseline, hand lotion, or baby oil�will deteriorate and weaken a condom. Some guys also put a dab of lube inside the condom, too, to increase sensitivity and make it feel better for them.
6.  After orgasm and ejaculation, hold the condom at the base of the penis and withdraw the penis.
7.  Carefully remove the condom from the penis, making sure that none of the semen comes out.
8.  Tie the condom in a knot and throw it away.  (Don�t flush it down the toilet.) Never reuse a condom.

To learn more, check out the condom tutorial with step-by-step instructions and pictures at www.durex.com or www.rubbertree.org. Once you�ve learned how to put on a condom the right way, you can practice! This may sound weird, but it will help you feel more comfortable using condoms�and it will help you use them correctly.