Condoms. When, How and Why It’s Important to Use Them

Why Use Them?

Condoms have two purposes. Not only can they be very effective in avoiding unwanted pregnancy but, if used, properly, they can aid in stopping the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV/Aids. They have none of the medical side-effects of various other birth control methods and can be used ONLY when needed, as opposed to contraceptives that you have to take or use on a consistent basis.

Materials They're Made From

There are three and they’re not created equally. Latex, Polyurethane and Lambskin. Latex is the most popular and the most reliable (especially for avoiding STDs). However, some people have latex allergies or get skin irritations so a good substitute for them is polyurethane. They are made from a type of plastic, are thinner than latex (which increases sensitivity) and some users say they prefer the feel and appearance of polyurethane over latex. As far as strength, studies show that the likelihood of breakage is very minimal with either type. Polyurethane condoms are, however, more expensive and slightly less flexible so more lubrication may be needed with them.

Lambskin is effective for birth control uses but will NOT protect from STDs. Unlike latex, they are porous and may permit passage of viruses like HIV. Some people use lambskin as an alternative to latex because they either have allergies to latex or it just plain irritates their skin. If this is the case, check out polyurethane condoms as a better substitute to latex ones.

Lubrication

Different types and brands vary when it comes to the lubrication they come with. Some are not lubricated at all, some have a silicone-based lubricant applied to them, and some have a water-based one. The goal of the added lubrication is to make them easier to put on and make them more comfortable to use. It can also prevent tears and breakage.

If you feel you need more Lubrication than what your condom comes with, it’s important to use a water-based lubricant. Anything oily will actually break down the latex rendering them useless and very dangerous. So no Vaseline, hand lotions, massage oils, etc. should come anywhere near your latex condoms. Any type of lubricant can be used with the polyurethane type.

Spermicides and Nonoxynol 9

Some condoms contain a spermicide called Nonoxynol 9. Originally, condoms containing the spermicide were thought to help prevent pregnancy and the transmission of HIV and other STDs, but please note that this is NOT the case. Nonoxynol 9 does NOT effectively help with either of these situations. In fact some people are allergic to it which can result in little sores on the skin, which can actually make the transmission of HIV more likely.

NOTE: Nonoxynol 9 should never be used during anal sex as it can damage the lining of the rectum. This, in turn, can increase the risk of transmitting HIV and other STDs.

Types, Shapes and Textures

They come in several shapes. First there are the regular-shaped ones that have straight sides. Then there are some that are a bit more form-fitting meaning they have some indentation below the head of the penis. Third, some are wider or flared at the head of the penis. Most, but not all, of the condoms you see today have a small reservoir cup at the tip for collecting semen. Some are ribbed or textured with bumps or ridges for more enjoyable sensations. There are also a wide variety of colors available.

Which one to use? It’s all a matter of personal preference (see the recommendation list below). Experiment with several different ones and see which works best for you and your partner.

There are also flavored varieties which are usually used during oral sex. However, not all of them are FDA approved for safe sex use. Make sure you check that out first.

Sizes

Yes, they come in different lengths and widths, and thank goodness they do, because men come in all different lengths and widths as well. Some men enjoy a “snugger” fit while others feel like they need a “more relaxed” fit so as not to feel like their penis is being “strangled”. Again, some experimentation may be needed to find out what’s best for you.

How to Use Them

If you’re using condoms to prevent pregnancy or sexually-transmitted diseases, they should be used every single time you have sex. They should NEVER be used more than once so have a good supply on hand. If you go from anal intercourse to vaginal intercourse, ALWAYS change to a new one. If you don’t, you risk getting some dangerous vaginal infections.

Examine your condom package carefully to see if it’s in good condition. Check the expiration date and do not use one that is outdated (even by a short period of time). Better safe than sorry. If you open it and it feels either sticky or dried out, throw it away and get another. Open the package carefully to make sure you don’t tear the actual condom inside.

It should only be put on when the penis is erect and before it makes any contact with your body. Place the rolled condom over the tip of the penis. If it doesn’t have a reservoir tip, pinch the tip enough to leave approximately one-half inch of space. This is where the semen is deposited when your partner ejaculates. If your partner isn’t circumcised, pull back his foreskin before putting it on. Then, start rolling it down with your fingers, using the rim. It should roll down easily. If it seems stuck, it’s probably on upside down and flipping it over should solve the problem.

If you really want to blow his mind, use your mouth and lips to roll it down the shaft of his penis like you’re giving him a blow-job. It’s very sexy. If you can’t go all the way down with your mouth because of his size, you can finish the job with your fingers.

After a man has climaxed, he should be sure he holds the base of the condom against his penis while he pulls out so it doesn’t get lost inside of her. This is also important so none of his semen gets inside her either. In addition, be sure NOT to wait until he’s completely soft before pulling out. Dispose of it in the trash. Remember it’s only a one-time use. Do not flush it down the toilet. It can cause plumbing problems and is also not good for the environment.

What are the Best Condoms on the Market Today for Both Men’s and Women’s Pleasure?

These are some recommendation from Ducky Doolittle who is a well-known Sex Educator and the author of "Sex With the Lights On". This is an excerpt from her book:

“There are so many great condoms on the market today! It’s impossible to pick just one because they each have unique features. Here is a list of some of my favorites.

• Crown – Very affordable. I love them because they are high quality and reliable yet men say they feel more sensation through them than your average condom. Because they are inexpensive they are ideal for slipping over sex toys to ensure they are clean and free of bacteria.
• Inspiral – One of the most unique designs on the market, this brand has a flared tip with an ice-cream-cone twist in the design. The flared tip allows more room for blood circulation at the head of the penis and the twisted design creates a subtle tug with each stroke. Guys love it.
• Kimono Microthin – A high-quality condom that used to be hard to find but now it’s popping up in more convenience stores and pharmacies around the country. Now available in a larger size.
• Mamba – Smaller than average so it's a perfect for those who need a snug fit.
• Avanti – Made from polyurethane and is a great alternative for those who are allergic to latex. More expensive than a latex condom but a lot less expensive than a sexually-transmitted disease or a pregnancy!
• Lifestyles Kiss of Mint – A non-lubricated condom that tastes like minty fresh toothpaste! It was designed specifically for oral sex. So suit up with something delicious and be safe!