Only use condoms...

Made of latex or polyurethane. "Natural" or animal skin condoms don't guard against STDs.

With a receptacle tip to allow a space in which your semen can collect.

In mint condition. Condoms that have been worn down in your pocket or wallet for weeks are unreliable.

That are marked, "for disease protection"

Never use oil-based lubricants. Vaseline can destroy the latex of a condom in 5 minutes. Oil can destroy a condom in less than 1 minute! Be careful when using massage oils before sex. If you do, it's a good idea to shower with soap after the massage and before sex. Oil on the hands or near the penis or vagina could damage the condom.

Ensure effectiveness by...

Checking the expiration date.

NOT using condoms that are brittle, gummy or discolored.

NOT using condoms in wrappers that are worn down and seeping lubricant.

Using a spermicidal water-based lubricant.

Making sure there is lubrication between the outside of the condom and the inside of the vagina. If a dry condom is forced into a dry vagina, it more is likely to break. Some women tend to be more dry then others. In this case you need to apply a sexual lubricant to the outside of the condom.

Carrying your condoms in a hard protective case to avoid friction. A pack of 12 Pleasure plus condoms come in a protective aluminum case.

Increase effectiveness by...

Using spermicidal foam or the pill along with the condom.