How protective are condoms against pregnancy?

My boyfriend and I are planning on having sex for the first time, I was just wondering how protective are condoms and will help reduce the chance of getting pregnant? Also is there anything special we should know about condoms?

If I were you, I'd go the Birth control Pill route.. but they may not be an option for you depending on your situation.

Condoms are pretty effective but HAVE A BACK UP PLAN. They are about 82% effective in preventing pregnancy.

What will you do if the condom breaks?

Do some research ahead of time to save yourself from a huge panic and headache later. (trust me!)

Look in your phone book for a Family Planning Center and find out about the Emergency Contraceptive Pill (Morning After Pill) Go ahead and call to just find out about their services and the morning after pill, they'll give you information as they are all about preventing pregnancy.

Some things you should know:

Polyurethane condoms are more comfortable but more expensive.

NEVER use any oil based lubricants or lotion with latex condoms - it will break down the latex and cause a break.

Watch the expiration dates. Expired condoms could break down more easily.

Follow the directions. (sounds odd... but true) There's a diagram with the condom that will give you better instructions than I can.

I started having sex a year ago. and I've been on birth control pills plus I make him wear a condom every time. there's nothing safer than that.

All I can tell you is that abstinence is the safest way to go. Sorryyy!!!

Condoms are easy to put on, try one before he comes over on a cucumber, about as round as a silver dollar or bigger but we dont want to flatter him... anyways you put it on the tip like a hat on a barbie doll, then you roll it down with your hands being careful not to use your nails.. look at the tip it will more than likely have air in it, you should have a decent amount at the tip for about a teaspoon of come and there shouldnt be any air, so go ahead and use your finger tips to pinch the tip like you were plucking a flower but not pulling hard on it, then just adjust it to make sure it feels right, now he will now if the condom breaks as the condom will feel different to him... Do not use the same condom twice and do not use any oils around the condom. OH YEAH! Buy a trusted brand and dont let him buy a HUGE size either unless he fits it. They are very safe that was my form of BC for the first 5 years my fiance and I were together, so I hope this helps