Condom Guide

In this guide you can find out all the facts about Condoms!

Condoms are the only form of protection which can both help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV and prevent pregnancy. A number of different types of condoms are now available. What is generally called a condom is the 'male' condom, a sheath or covering which fits over a man's penis, and which is closed at one end.

What are Condoms made of?

Condoms are usually made of latex or polyurethane. If possible you should use a latex condom, as they are slightly more reliable, and in most countries they are most readily available.

Latex condoms can only be used with water based lubricants, not oil based lubricants such as Vaseline as they break down the latex. A small number of people have can have an allergic reaction to latex and can use polyurethane condoms instead.

Polyurethane condoms are made out a type of plastic. They are thinner than latex condoms, and so they increase sensitivity and are more agreeable in feel and appearance to some users. They are more expensive than latex condoms and slightly less flexible so more lubrication may be needed. However both oil and water based lubricants can be used with them.

It's not clear whether latex or polyurethane condoms are stronger – there are studies suggesting that either is less likely to break. With both types however, the likelihood of breakages is very small if used correctly.

The lubrication on condoms also varies. Some condoms are not lubricated at all, some are lubricated with a silicone substance, and some condoms have a water-based lubricant. The lubrication on condoms aims to make the condom easier to put on and more comfortable to use. It can also help prevent condom breakage.

What shapes are there and which should I choose? What about flavoured Condoms?

Condoms come in a variety of shapes. Most have a reservoir tip although some do have a plain tip. Condoms may be regular shaped (with straight walls), form fit (indented below the head of the penis), or they may be flared (wider over the head of the penis).

Ribbed condoms, like Condomi Stimulation, Durex Pleasuremax or Durex Ribbed, are textured with ribs or bumps, which can increase sensation for both partners. Condoms also come in a variety of colours. Why not try Durex Performa, designed to prolong sexual excitement for those who want to go on for longer.

It's up to you which shape you choose. All of the differences in shape are designed to suit different personal preferences and enhance pleasure. It is important to communicate with your partner to be sure that you are using condoms that satisfy both of you.

Some condoms are flavoured to make oral sex more enjoyable. We like the Condomi Fruit and Colour and Condomi Chocolate ranges. Flavoured condoms are also safe to use for penetrative sex.

What about the condom size?

Condoms are made in different lengths and widths, and different manufacturers produce varying sizes.

There is no standard length for condoms, though those made from natural rubber will in addition always stretch if necessary to fit the length of the man's erect penis.

The width of a condom can also vary. Some condoms have a slightly smaller width to give a "closer" fit, whereas others will be slightly larger. Condom manufacturers have realised that different lengths and widths are needed and are increasingly broadening their range of sizes like Condomi XXL which a slightly larger than average size.

The brand names will be different in each country, so you will need to do your own investigation of different names. There is no particular best brand of condom.

So when do you use a condom?

You need to use a new condom every time you have sexual intercourse. Never use the same condom twice. Put the condom on after the penis is erect and before any contact is made between the penis and any part of the partner's body. If you go from anal intercourse to vaginal intercourse, you should consider changing the condom.

How can I check a condom is safe to use?

Condoms that have been properly tested and approved carry the British Standard Kite Mark or the EEC Standard Mark (CE). In the USA, condoms should be FDA approved, and elsewhere in the world, they should be ISO approved.

Condoms have an expiration (Exp) or manufacture (MFG) date on the box or individual package that tells you when it is safe to use the condom until. It's important to check this when you use a condom. You should also make sure the package and the condom appear to be in good condition.

Condoms can deteriorate if not stored properly as they are affected by both heat and light. So it's best not to use a condom that has been stored in your back pocket, your wallet, or the glove compartment of your car. If a condom feels sticky or very dry you shouldn't use it as the packaging has probably been damaged.

Is using a condom effective?

If used properly, a condom is very effective at reducing the risk of being infected with HIV during sexual intercourse. Using a condom also provides protection against other sexually transmitted diseases, and protection against pregnancy. In the laboratory, latex condoms are very effective at blocking transmission of HIV because the pores in latex condoms are too small to allow the virus to pass through. However, outside of the laboratory condoms are not always 100% effective simply because people do not always use condoms properly. It is important for us to mention here that no form of contraception is 100% safe. But you are certainly a lot safer with condoms than you are without.

Back to Sex Toy Guides

Bondara® is a registered trademark and Bondara is the trading name of Nagook Ltd. Copyright 2006-2008. All models are over 18. E-commerce Website Design by Popcorn.