How do you use a condom?

It's easy.

There's not much more to using a condom than simply tearing open the packet and sticking it on your penis. However, condoms come in different sizes, shapes, thicknesses, and flavours. Experiment to see which are best for you. If you're having anal sex, always go for a thicker condom.

Men with larger organs might not be boasting when they say their condoms are too tight—sheaths do vary considerably in size and shape (as well as thickness) and research suggests men do find some much more comfortable than others. If you find one type of condom uncomfortable, shop around until you find another that suits you better. Widely available condoms vary in length from 168—191 mm while circumferences range from 98—111 mm.

Check the use-by date as condoms can deteriorate with age.

If you don't like using condoms, practise putting them on and ejaculating into them at home. This really is a problem that's all in the mind. Condoms don't affect sexual performance — in fact, they may prolong it. Some women don't like condoms as they can irritate the vagina. This can be overcome with a little lubricant (not oil-based as this can split latex condoms). In the rare case of latex allergy or overwhelming urge to use your favourite oli-based lubricant, use polyurethene condoms.

Make sure the condom meets recognized safety requirements (the British Standard Kitemark symbol on condoms manufactured in the UK is generally acknowledged to be the highest standard in the world). Never trust condoms that are shaped like animals, are luminous in the dark, or play tunes when you take them out of the packet. These are novelty products, recommended only for blowing up, sticking over your head, or making water bombs.

Where to get condoms...

Go to your local family planning clinic and you may well get them free.

Too embarrased to buy condoms? Buy them online. Thanks to the fpa for suggesting these this site where you can buy condoms and get more information: www.britishcondoms.com

How to put a condom on...

1. Wait until your penis is fully erect before you put on the condom.

Because seminal fluid can come out of your penis before you ejaculate, you should put the condom on before you attempt penetration.

2. Open the packet carefully, even if you're a tad excited. Although condoms are very strong, they can be torn by fingernails, rings, or even rough skin.

3 Make sure you put it on the right way round. The best method is to hold the closed end between the thumb and forefinger of one hand and squeeze the air out.

4. Then, using the other hand, place the condom on the tip of your penis and unroll it fully down the shaft.

Slap on plenty of water-based lubricant for extra pleasure. Don't use petroleum jelly or massage oil—they can rot latex remarkably quickly. (Although you can safely use oil-based lubes with polyurethane condoms.)

5. Check it regularly. In some sexual positions, the condom can roll up so make sure it's still in position during sex.

6. Remove it carefully. Because your penis goes limp soon after you've ejaculated, you should hold the base of the condom firmly in place and withdraw before any semen can leak out of the condom.

It's not compulsory to show your partner how much you've produced; in fact, it's probably better to wrap the condom in a tissue and throw it away in a bin. (Don't chuck it down the toilet - used condoms are a nightmare for sewage companies and can end up on beaches.)

If you're new to condoms, practice when you're home alone.