According to condom pioneers Durex, the message is simple: condoms are the only form of protection that can help stop the transmission of STIs and prevent pregnancy. And we happen to agree with them.

In this day and age, with so many different colours, textures and varieties of condoms available, there is no excuse for not protecting yourself and your lover from infection and unplanned pregnancy.

This guide will explain exactly why condoms are so important, how to use them and how to choose the right style of condom to suit your needs.

When used correctly, condoms can protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections - but it's essential that you know how to apply and remove them properly.

Condoms offer essential protection in casual relationships, for both partners. Read our guide How to Choose a Condom to learn the difference between different types of condoms.

Lovehoney customer favourites:

Once you've chosen the right condoms for you and your partner, it's time to learn how to use them effectively. This guide explains everything you need to know about putting on, using and removing a condom.

What is a condom? And why are they so popular for ensuring safe sex?

Well, firstly, barrier methods of contraception (which is what a condom is) are the only type of contraception that protects you and your partner from STI's as well as unwanted pregnancy.

When used correctly, they offer an astonishing 98% success rate, but in order to be properly protected, you need to know what you're doing.

In this weeks video, Jess and Sammi give you the lowdown on latex (and non-latex) love-gloves, condom-friendly lubes and everything else you need to know before putting one on.

Come back next week for part 2, when we show you exactly how to put a condom on (properly!)

Condoms are truly unsung heroes.

Not only do they prevent unplanned pregnancies and STIs, they let us experience new sensations, they help sex last longer, and - if we are being really honest – they make the post-coital clean up oh so simple.

Condoms only want what’s best for us, yet we make them the butt of our jokes, we use them for bizarre internet challenges, and we don’t appreciate them as much as we should.

It’s a modern-day injustice, so I’m here to play devil’s advocate for the humble condom. Brace yourself – I’m about to drop some serious truth bombs.