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So there you are standing in the drugstore in front of a huge row of condoms. The last thing you want to do is market research or be seen standing there. As if choosing a brand wasn't hard enough, now you are expected to decided between lubricated and non-lubricated, ribbed or not! Well, here is everything you need to know when it comes to picking out condoms...
Latex condoms are by far the most abundant on the market. They are relatively inexpensive, thin, flexible, and extremely effective against pregnancy and STDs including AIDS. The only drawbacks include possible allergies to latex and bad taste of the latex rubber. Oil based lubricants such as Vaseline and cold cream will break down latex rubber so be sure to use water based lubricant. Latex condoms cannot be used in chlorinated swimming pools either because chlorine also breaks down latex. Most all latex condoms are for men.
This plastic-like material is now being used as an alternative to latex for making condoms. It is extremely thin, durable, has no taste or odor, causes no known allergic reactions, and can be used with both oil and water based lubricants. They cost a little more than latex condoms, and aren't quite as flexible as latex, but they make a great alternative. Because of their higher rigidity, be sure to use adequate lubrication. And if you do use polyurethane condoms, be sure to read any documentation provided with them for possible additional information. Right now these are sold under the brand name Durex Avanti for males. There's also a female version of the polyurethane condom available called Reality.
Despite their name, "natural" or "sheepskin" condoms are in fact made from animal intestines. They are just as effective against pregnancy as polyurethane or latex, however they do not offer good protection against STDs. They cost two to three times as much as latex and are not as widely available. Oil and water based lubricants can be used with them. For couples merely seeking an alternative to latex and protection against pregnancy they are worth a mention.
Specialty condoms which may be flavored, edible, or part of joke or gag sets are considered novelty and should not be used for serious protection. This often applies to condom gags found in adult bookstores. These types of condoms are usually marked on the package as "For novelty use only." Always check the labeling and directions if you are not sure. Never use a condom you are not sure about.
Lubricated condoms are the end-all-be-all of condoms. This type has been around since condoms were invented and are the easiest to use. There are two types of lubricants used in these condoms: silicone-based and water-based. Condoms with a water-based lubricant can often feel sticky and the water can evaporate quickly. Stick to the silicone-based for simplicity.
Some people prefer non-lubricated condoms and will use products such as Astroglide or other bottle lubricants. In this case, make sure you always use a water or silicone based lubricant with latex condoms. DO NOT USE OIL-BASED LUBRICANTS! (Such as baby oil, Vaseline, etc.) They will destroy the latex and make the condom worthless.
Spermicide works as a second form of birth control when used with condoms; it kills the sperm and prevents them from fertilizing an egg should they escape the condom. Some brands of condoms are available with spermicide already on the condom others you have to purchase separately. The most commonly used type of spermicide is Nonoxynol-9.
Most people don't like wearing a condom, that is a common fact. Condom companies realize this and have created several types that are shaped and contoured to help increase sensation. These types vary from brand to brand, however the general concept is to provide more (or less) headroom for the penis thus creating more friction over the sensitive nerve endings.
Not all penises are the same size. When choosing a size for a condom, be honest because a condom that is too big will simply slide off and provide no protection, while a condom that is too small is likely to break. Condom companies are referring to the diameter of the condom when determining size.
As if size in one direction wasn't enough, condom makers also have long and short condoms as well as those with more headroom. Condoms with extra headroom provide added sensation due to the material rubbing the over the nerve endings in the head of the penis. Be careful in purchasing short condoms, however, as a short condom will not be able to catch as much "love juice" and could result in spillage.
Latex is naturally a milky-white color; for those of you that want to add a little adventure to your fun, condom makers have created colored condoms. Colored condoms provide the same amount of protection as plain ones provided that they are still made out of latex.
Most people don't know that HIV and Herpes can be passed through oral sex. Knowing this, most doctors agree that it is necessary to use protection when performing this act; to make this a little more palatable, condom companies have created flavored condoms. Note of caution: make sure to change condoms when switching between oral sex and other types as teeth may have caused tiny little snags and tears in the condom.
Ok, now you have tried the basic condoms and now you want a little something extra. Textured condoms range from those designed to give the non-condom wearing partner sensation to those which provide both with a great feeling.
Take care in opening the condom package not to damage the condom itself. Never use anything sharp to cut the wrapper open. Unroll the condom, fat part of the roll outside, down on an erect penis only, while squeezing the tip to prevent air from becoming trapped inside. The condom should roll down to the base of the penis and fit snugly but comfortably. If it is too loose or too tight or uncomfortable in any way, you may have to consider switching brands or styles.
If you will be applying any spermicide or lubricant, do so before intercourse takes place. Remember to use water based lubes only such as K-Y Jelly, Wet, or AstroGlide; no Vaseline, cold cream, or similar oil based products (including many foods such as whipped cream that could possibly be used in sex play for you adventurous types) because they break down latex rubber.
To maximize the effectiveness of the condom for prevention of both diseases and pregnancy, don't "double bag" condoms and hold the base of the condom when withdrawing from your partner being very careful not to spill any semen. To dispose of the condom, tie it in a knot and throw it away in the trash; do not flush it. They don't degrade like paper and can do horrible things to sewer and septic system lines. Never use any condom more than once and never use the same condom if switching between anal and vaginal intercourse.
Virgin birth alert! Be sure to wash your hands and your penis with soap and water if you plan to have any unprotected sexual contact after removing the used condom.
Most condoms are manufactured 3-5 years before their expiration dates. Since latex degrades over time, the fresher the condoms are the better. Never use any condom that has expired, and be sure to store condoms in a cool dry place away from heat, cold, sunlight, or sharp objects.
If the condom is not lubricated, apply at least a few drops of water based lubricant to the tip of the inside and outside of the condom right before intercourse, especially with polyurethane. This will decrease the possibility of the condom breaking due to excessive friction.
Although condoms come in a vast array of colors, sizes, shapes, and textures, generally those from the same brand and of the same thickness share equal effectiveness.
If a condom is too tight, it is more likely to break or cause pain. If it is too loose, it is more likely to slip off. Be sure you choose a size that works best for you. If you dislike using condoms now because they are uncomfortable, try switching sizes or brands. You may be in for a pleasant surprise!
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