"How protective are condoms against pregnancy?"
Used properly the failure rate of a condom is 2 pregnancies per 100 sexual encounters (2% failure rate).

"I feel stupid going to a store and buying condoms, I would rather take my chances."
If you feel stupid buying condoms ask one of your friends to buy them for you or to "get me a box the next time you buy some". It is embarrassing but, like many other uncomfortable tasks it gets easier after the first time or two. You may arrange to buy condoms in bulk if a group of friends contribute money.

"What don't condoms protect you against?"
Pubic lice is definitely a risk. Condoms are felt to be minimally protective against viruses such as those which can cause genital warts and HPV in women. The relative risk of contracting gonorrhea is 0.25 to 0.51, Ureaplasma urealyticum is 0.33.

"Is it still worth putting a condom on if I have had unprotected penetration for 10 seconds?"
Yes. The length of an exposure directly correlates to an increased risk for a sexually transmitted disease or pregnancy.

"What do I do if my condom falls off or breaks?"
You have received a potential exposure and it is best to proceed to the STD clinic for counseling and testing. If you are up front with your partner, that person will hopefully join you for testing and counseling.

"Will the fact that I am uncircumcised alter the effectiveness of condoms?"
There are some data that uncircumcised men are more at risk for contracting STDs. With a condom this may increase a few tenths of a percent above the normal failure rate for STD protection. There is no difference in the use or function of a condom for circumcised or uncircumcised men.

"What is the best condom to buy?"
Consumer Reports has just issued (CR February, 2005, pp34.) a full comparison based on strength and reliability and rates 23 condoms including those given out by Planned Parenthood. Other parameters are considered such as cost and thickness of the condom as well as the presence of spermicide or texture. The top five products are; 1. Durex Extra Sensetive Lubricated Latex, 2. Durex Performax Lubricated, 3. LifeStyles Classic Collection Sensetive Lubricated, 4. TheyFit Lubricated, 5. Trojan Extended Pleasure Climax Control Lubricant. Visit ConsumerReports.org for a full comparison.

"What if I am allergic to latex condoms?"
Polyurethane condoms are available. Keep in mind that according to Consumer Reports "polyurethane condoms do not have industry standards" for strength.

"What is the best kind of lubricant to use for sex if I do not buy a lubricated condom?"
Water-based gels are best such as KY gel or Astroglide. Avoid petroleum based gels since these may compromise the integrity of the polymer and may lead to a leaky condom.

"I put the condom on inside out, will it still work?"
Yes, but it may be less secure since any lubricant will be on the inside and may facilitate the condom coming off.

"I found a condom in my pants pocket from last year. Can I still use it and be safe?"
Latex can break down and weaken with heat, repeated manipulation and time so it is best not to take chances with one that has been in your wallet for a few months or one that you found from a long time ago.