Good & Healthy Relationship Advice & Tips

1. You used the wrong kind. Words like novelty or for entertainment purposes mean it's not FDA-approved. Latex is best, or polyurethane if you're allergic.

2. ...or the wrong lube. Oils and petroleum jelly can damage latex, so only use with water-based lubes. The word oil on the label means it's not latex-safe. P.S. Saliva is a safe, free lubricant.

3. You didn't examine it. Check the expiration date. And don't use a discolored, torn, or brittle condom.

4. You let him put it on. "Women often assume the guy will take care of it, and we don't pay close attention to how it's done," says Cosmo contributor Jennifer Ashton, M.D., an ob-gyn. Get in the driver's seat!

5. You unrolled it first. That can cause breakage. Pinch the tip so there's room for semen but no air. Now roll it down the shaft, gently squeezing out air bubbles.

6. It went on too late. "He has to wear it the whole time — even before penetration — to keep you both protected," says Dr. Ashton.

7. It stayed on too long. Take it off right after ejaculation when he's hard — hold the base as you slide it off to prevent semen spillage.

8. You recycled. It went on wrong? Don't try again with the same condom — you could swap fluids.