If used correctly, condoms are the only way to protect yourself from contracting HIV and most other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For information about HIV and AIDS, click here. And to find out about sexually transmitted infections, click here.

Recent research* has shown that gay and bisexual men don't have to use only thicker condoms (Pasante 'Extra' and Mates 'Protector') for sex. Condom thickness doesn't seem to affect how likely it is to burst. If used correctly, regular thickness condoms (with a British Kitemark or a European CE mark) can be just as safe. Read on for tips to help reduce the risk of a condom slipping off or breaking...

- Check that the condom has a kitemark or CE mark, and that it isn't past its expiry date (on the picture opposite, the expiry date of 2013/02 is circled, which means February 2013)

- Get a condom that fits properly. The condoms that we currently provide (Pasante Extra) are suitable for average penis size in terms of length and girth. Condoms that are too small are more likely to break, while those that are too big have a greater chance of slipping off. Use the size or shape that suits you. Regular strength condoms come in a wider variety of shapes and sizes, so it may be easier to get one that fits.

- If you don't like thicker condoms, try a regular strength condom - they can increase sensation and also help guys with concerns about sustaining an erection.

- Don't store condoms near heat or in pockets where they get bent - this can weaken them.

- Take the condom out of its wrapper carefully - don't use your teeth as this can damage it.

- Put the condom on properly - hold the teat to get the air out and roll it down the cock.

- Use lots of water-based or silicon-based lube on the outside of the condom and in your arse if you are being shagged.

- Don't put lube on your cock or inside the condom before putting the condom on - it increases the chance of the condom slipping off. The idea that doing this increases sensation is a myth.

- Don't get oil-based products (baby oil, hair gel, skin cream, moisturiser, sun cream etc) on a latex condom as this makes the condom rot and fail really quickly.

- Don't use the same condom for more than 45 minutes - check the condom is ok regularly and apply more lube each time.

- Use different condoms if you are shagging more than one guy or are sharing the same sex toys.

- Once you have finished shagging hold the condom at the base when you are withdrawing so that no cum leaks out.

Have a look at the CHAPS condoms site for more information about condoms.

If you'd like information from us, please get in touch via the contact page

* Golombok S et al (2001) An evaluation of a thicker versus a standard condom with gay men