Condoms

Fit and feel matter most — every CE-marked condom protects against pregnancy and STIs when used correctly. Durex Extra Safe is slightly thicker and extra lubricated for reassurance, Thin Feel is made from thinner latex for a more natural sensation, and Pleasure Me is ribbed and dotted for extra sensation. A condom should feel snug but comfortable; if one style slips or feels tight, try another.

Used correctly every time, condoms are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy — and they're the only method of contraception that also protects against most sexually transmitted infections. Most failures come from small mistakes, so check the expiry date, look for the CE or UKCA mark, put the condom on before any genital contact, and squeeze the air out of the tip.

Yes — lubricant makes condoms more comfortable and less likely to tear. Choose a water-based lubricant such as Durex Play Feel. Avoid anything oil-based, like baby oil, moisturiser or petroleum jelly, as oils weaken latex and make condoms more likely to split.

Durex Extended Pleasure condoms carry a small amount of benzocaine lubricant on the inside, which gently reduces sensitivity to help you last longer. If ejaculation regularly happens sooner than you'd like, there are also dedicated treatments — see our premature ejaculation page or have a quiet word with our pharmacist.

Act quickly rather than panicking. If pregnancy is a risk, emergency contraception is more effective the sooner it's taken — see our emergency contraception page or speak to our pharmacist in confidence. It's also sensible to have an STI check, especially with a new partner; a sexual health clinic can arrange free, confidential testing.