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First let us say that the subject matter of this laboratory experiment requires a level of maturity that we assume is present in a college age student.  We are not trying to embarrass anyone, but rather educate students about the health benefits of condoms and the risks that may occur if the condom is mistreated. 
            Most national surveys report from 55-80% of college students as being sexually active. Latex condoms are one of the most common forms of protection used to prevent both pregnancy and the spread of disease.  But condoms are only about 85% effective in general and circumstances where the condoms fail is often a direct result of the conditions for storing the condom.
            In today’s lab we are going to test the strength of a non-lubricated latex condom both before and after subjecting it to common conditions (heat and oils) that might increase the failure rate. 
            The first circumstance that could cause problems is the storage of condoms in wallets or cars for long periods of time.  We will simulate the heat that results from being in these situations by placing a packaged condom in the oven for 30 minutes at 60^oC. The second condition that can damage condoms is exposure to baby oils or cold creams.  We will test the condoms by soaking them in the oils/creams for ~30 seconds and then testing them for both strength and leaks.
            Below is a chart that indicates more chemicals that should not come into contact with condoms: