Why do condoms break?

I’ve heard of several instances where condoms are way too tight and have broken. Why don’t colleges have bigger ones available?

Condoms are designed to stretch enormously, and rarely break when used perfectly. A few studies have found that latex condoms, which on average break 3 percent of the time, break only 0.4 percent of the time when used perfectly. A condom which is too tight may be uncomfortable, but isn’t much more likely to break, so anyone having a problem with condoms breaking regularly is probably also having a problem with putting condoms on right. So, here’s how.

Many tears occur when the condom is being removed from the package, so be careful if you have long fingernails or are using teeth or scissors.

Putting a drop of lubricant in the inside tip of the condom can make it easier to put on and decrease the chance of it breaking. Some guys also really like the sensation it adds during sex.

Before you start rolling on the condom, pinch the reservoir tip and a little past (1/4 to 1/2 inch). This prevents an air bubble which could cause unnecessary friction (and unnecessary broken condoms), and also gives the semen a place to go.

Roll the condom all the way to the base of the penis. If the bottom of the condom is entering the vagina, it’s not rolled down far enough and is more likely to slip off or leak around the edge.

Although many condoms are already lubricated, adding more lubricant will make them less likely to break. Always use water- or silicone-based lubricants. Using Vaseline, mineral oil or any sort of cream or lotion which contains a petroleum derivative or other oil will weaken the condom and make it more likely to break.

Never use two condoms at once (or a male and female condom at the same time). The friction often causes both to tear.

Also, don’t store condoms in your wallet or the dashboard of your car. Heat weakens the latex. And check to make sure your condoms aren’t expired, as that also increases the likelihood that they will break.

Recommendations: Condoms, a history of condoms, and a guide to hot safer sex.