HTHGS: Allergy to latex condoms
Ask Alex,
I tested positive for a latex allergy although I have never had symptoms. What is the safest alternative for condoms?
Allergic to latex,

Dear Allergic to Latex,
If you are allergic to latex condoms, try using condoms made out of polyurethane. Polyurethane condoms look exactly like regular condoms. In addition, the female condom is made out of polyurethane. Good luck.

Alex Robboy, LSW

HTHGS:  Condom Breakage
My boyfriend and I had sex and after we realized the tip of the condom had ripped off...It's quite possible that the tip is still inside of me.  Will the nature take it's course and dispose of this? Or should I go to a doctor? Mary Jo 

Dear Mary Jo,
Thank you for your question.  I'm going to hold off addressing your concern about the condom tip for a moment in order to get some other, more urgent, information to you.  Any time a condom breaks, there is a risk of unintended pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection.  If you are concerned about pregnancy, there is something you can do, but you have to act FAST.  You can take emergency contraception pills, which you get from a doctor or other health care provider, within 72 hours after the unprotected sex.  Taking these pills (a higher dose of birth control pills) can be up to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy from occurring.  Not just any pills will work and you have to have the right dose, so it's important that you get a doctor's or nurse's prescription for the pills.  You can get phone numbers of health care providers in your area who will provide emergency contraception by calling 1-888-NOT-2-LATE (as well as more information).

If you are at risk of sexually transmitted infections, it's also important that you and your boyfriends get tested at a doctor's office or clinic (such as Planned Parenthood).

Finally, as for the condom tip, it is possible that the tip is still inside your vagina.  It's important that you try to get it out yourself b/c it may cause an infection if left there.  So, you or your boyfriend could try gently to remove it with your finger.  If you have no luck, see a doctor or nurse to have her or him help you locate and remove the tip. Good luck and thank you again for your question!