If you’re a sexually active person who practices safe sex and you’re not fluid bonded with a partner, chances are that you’re probably using condoms. Condoms are one of the most, if not, the most used method of birth control for some very important reasons. It can prevent the spreading of STDs/STIs, prevent unwanted pregnancy when used correctly, is cost-effective (in my opinion), and is a commitment-free method of birth control with little to no side-effects and no hormones. More on my personal fears and thoughts on birth control later. For now, I want to share with you a general run-down on condoms and provide you with some need-to-know info that everyone should know about if they use condoms.
Types of Condoms – What are they made of?
Latex– is a naturally derived material that is naturally occurring in nature. It can come from plants and such fruits like papaya and jackfruit. It is quite stretchy, flexible, and widely popular amongst condom users.
Polyurethane– is made of thin plastic and is just as effective as latex and polyisoprene at preventing STD’s, STI’s, and unwanted pregnancies. Just not as flexible. They can, however, be used with oil-based lubricants, though I would personally suggest water or silicone-based lubricant for all penetrative play as some condom labels do not specify which material is being used as refers to condoms that don’t contain latex as “Non-Latex”.
Polyisoprene– is a man-made version of latex. It is made in a laboratory is, therefore, a more refined version of latex which is you will sometimes hear that people with latex allergies can use it. Those who have latex allergies, may or may not experience an allergen trigger from this material.
Sheepskin/Lambskin– made of a layer of membrane from the sheep’s intestine’s called cecum, these condoms are very effective at protecting against unwanted pregnancy, but they are NOT effective at protecting against STD’s and STI’s.
Nitrile– is a synthetic rubber that is non-latex. Another great option for those who are sensitive or allergic to latex. At this time, female condoms are the only safe-sex product made with nitrile. It can also be used with oil-based lubricant, but I personally recommend water-based or silicone-based lubricant only.
Types of Condoms- Style
Lubricated– Theses condoms can have two different types of lubricant: water-based or silicone-based. Mainly silicone-based. Keep this in mind when using them with sex toys, as certain sex toy materials are not compatible with silicone lubricant.
Non-Lubricated– These condoms are not lubricated and provide you with the option of using your favorite lubricant. Great for those who are sensitive to the lubricants traditionally found in most main-stream condom brands. They are also a better option for using with sex toys.
Flavored– These are ideally used solely for oral sex because they are flavored, but in some cases can be used for penetrative sex. Be sure to read the label to make sure the ones you pick up can be used for more than just oral sex. Some flavored lubricants that are on flavored condoms may contain glycerin, which can irritation to vagina owners.
Textured– These condoms can come in studded, ribbed, or any other patterns for added stimulation and sensation.
Types of Condoms-Size
Regular– This size of condom can accommodate most average and above average members.
Snug/Tapered– This size condom is great for those whose member has more length than girth.
Large/XXL – This size of condom can be used for those who are on the more on the girthier side.
Condom Do’s and Dont’s
Do Not Use Oil-Based Lubricants with Latex Condoms– Using oil-based lubricants of any kind on latex condoms will break down the condom. Toys made with porous materials are NOT compatible with latex as porous sex toy materials like jelly, rubber, or TPR are softened with oil in the manufacturing process and therefore cannot be used with latex condoms as oil breaks down latex and will cause the condom to break during use. Oils
Do Not Use Condoms Larger than Your Member– While wearing a larger-fitting condom may provide the wearer with a boost to their ego, wearing a larger-fitting condom that is too large for your member may result in condom slippage or the condom falling off completely while in use. Always wear the right size of a condom to get the most efficiency out of it.
Do Not Use Condoms Smaller Than Your Member– A snugger fit condom to some might feel more comfortable in some cases, but using a condom smaller than your member ay cause the condom to pop during use if there is too much friction and cause irritation to the wearer.
Do Not Re-Use Condoms– Condoms are intended to be a one-use product only and is not meant to be re-used. Attempting to re-use a condom may result in being exposed to bacteria, STD’s or STI’s, and unwanted pregnancy. It would also be a hassle to put back on once unrolled.
Always Carry More Than One Condom– You should always carry more than one condom just in case you make a mistake like dropping a condom while trying to put it on or maybe you want to go another round. I would say the best number to go with is at least three if you know you might be having sex. Just my opinion
Do Not Store Condoms in an Extremely Hot or Cold Climate– always store condoms out of the way of extreme heat or cold as it can compromise the material and its effectivity.
Do Not Use A Condom If There Is A Hole In It– I get it. In the throes of passion, one may not bother to properly inspect a condom for holes or other signs of damage. However, taking the time to inspect each condom before use may save you in the long run.
If you have any questions that this guide hasnt covered, just drop a comment and I’ll get back to ya.
While we’re on the subject of condoms, I wanted to share with you some of my personal favorites.
Trojan Her Pleasure Ecstasy Ultra
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A huge thank you to the Lion’s Den for sponsoring this post and helping me promote safe sex!
For more information on Lion’s Den and their wide selection of sex toys and condoms, visit LionsDen.com