The truth about condoms

They're popular, cheap and effective – but do you know how to use a condom properly?

Myth: "Condoms don't fit him"

Truth: He may not be putting them on right, or may need to try different sizes. Smaller condoms have names like trim, close-fit or conform. Bigger ones are called Avanti or extra-large.

Myth: "We don't need a condom – he can control himself"

Truth: Withdrawal – when the man pulls out before he comes – is so unreliable it doesn't even count as contraception. Even if he is controlled enough to pull out before he comes, sperm comes out of his penis beforehand. And withdrawal gives no protection from STIs.

Myth: "If he's using condoms, I don't need any other contraceptive"

Truth: Condoms are good because they're cheap, easy to use and prevent STIs. But if you're having sex regularly, you should also consider using another form of contraception at the same time, like the Pill, in case a condom does break.

Myth: "It's safer if you use two condoms"

Truth: Using two condoms at once is a really bad idea. Neither of you will feel much, and it could make the condom break more easily. If you're worried, buy extra-safe instead.

Myth: "Condoms break easily. I know 'cos it's happened to me"

Truth: If a condom breaks, it's probably been put on wrong or torn by nails or jewellery. If there's an air bubble at the end it can cause a tear, and if one's put on inside-out it'll be uncomfortable to roll on, so take it off and put a new one on. If one does break and you're not using any other contraception, go to a clinic or doctor as soon as possible and ask about emergency contraception.

Myth: "You need extra lube – Vaseline is good"

Truth: A bit of extra lubrication can be sexy, but be careful what you use. Don't use anything with oil in it – baby oil, Vaseline, hand cream – as they can dissolve the condom. Use a water-based lubricant like KY jelly from a pharmacy. Remember, lipstick has oil in it, too.

Myth: "Condoms cut off his circulation"

Truth: A condom can stretch to 18 inches round. He'll be fine.

Myth: "I'm on the pill – we don't need condoms"

Truth: If you have unprotected sex with a guy, you're putting a lot of trust in him. It's like sleeping with every girl he's ever slept with, and all the men they've ever had. If he's not wearing a condom, you're not protected against STIs. And if you've forgotten to take a pill, or been sick, or using antibiotics, you could still get pregnant.

Myth: "If I ask to use a condom, he'll think I'm a slut or have an STI"

Truth: If you use condoms regularly he'll know you're unlikely to have an STI. By using them, you show that you respect him and yourself.

Myth: "You don't need a condom if you're having oral sex"

Truth: Most people don't use condoms for oral sex. But most people don't know that gonorrhoea and herpes can be passed to each other through oral sex.

Myth: "Condoms make him less sensitive"

Truth: It's true that a condom will make some men last longer before they come. Good news for both of you.

Myth: "You have to be 18 to buy condoms"

Truth: You can buy condoms and get confidential advice at any age. You can also get them free from family planning clinics.

Myth: "I don't need a condom – I only go with nice guys"

Truth: Some nice guys have STIs, which may not have symptoms. Even if he's only slept with one other girl, he could give you an STI.

If something goes wrong

If a condom breaks or you have sex without one but don't want to get pregnant, it's vital to do something about it. These things won't stop you getting pregnant: hoping for the best, washing yourself out, or taking a mate's contraceptive pills. Playgrounds are full of girls with kids who thought, "It won't happen to me." Rather than waiting, worrying and maybe having to think about an abortion, take emergency contraception. Even if you're under 16, you can get emergency pills from your GP or a clinic. They won't have to tell your parents. If you're over 16, you can also buy emergency contraception in pharmacies. The pills work for up to 72 hours after you have sex but are more effective the sooner you take them. You should also get checked for STIs – visit your local clinic for a free sexual health check-up.