Here are some tips to help prevent this from happening.
- Using lots of lube… and the right sort
Using plenty of lube both on the condom and around and up the arse of the man being fucked makes it less likely the condom will break or slip off. Water-based or silicone-based lubes are the only ones it’s safe to use with condoms as oil-based lubes weaken rubber. - Use the right size condom for the cock
Cocks come in different sizes and it's important to use a condom that fits you properly. If a condom is too tight it’s more likely to split and will be more uncomfortable to put on and wear. Look out for longer, wider condoms, eg Durex Comfort XL. On the other hand, if a condom is too big it may come off - find out more here. - Keep air out
Try to avoid air getting trapped underneath the condom as you put it on as this can make the condom break. If your condom has a teat at the tip, squeeze the air out with finger and thumb as you roll the condom on. - Try not to stretch the condom
Stretching or rolling the condom before it’s on a cock makes it more likely to break. - Use one condom at a time
Using two condoms (one on top of another) isn’t safer. In fact, the extra friction of two condoms rubbing against each other make them more likely to break. - Change the condom
Studies show that after about half an hour of fucking a condom is more likely to break. So check now and then that it’s OK, add more lube and consider putting on a fresh condom after about 30 minutes. - Use quality condoms
Only use condoms that have one and preferably both of these symbols: the British Safety Standard Kitemark and the CE symbol.
These mean a condom is of a good standard to use. Also, check the ‘best before’ date stamped onto the wrapper. If the date has expired, don’t use the condom (unless you have no others to hand). If travelling abroad take condoms and lube with you as they can be hard to find or not good enough quality.
- Store your condoms properly
Condoms need to be kept away from damp or hot places, out of direct sunlight and shouldn’t be crushed. Keeping them in your trouser pocket, wallet, or the glove compartment of a car can weaken them and they’re more likely to break.
If a condom breaks and you’re worried about HIV being passed on or picked up, you may be able to take PEP, a treatment that can stop someone getting HIV if it is taken soon enough. Click here to find out more.
This article was last reviewed on: 25/08/11
Date due for next review: 25/08/13
