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The Condom Lowdown When was the last time you took a good look in the condom aisle? There are more varieties than ever before: latex, polyurethane, lambskin, lubricated, non-lubricated... and they all come in different sizes, flavors, and textures! Maybe you're too embarrassed to browse through all the store merchandise, but don't worry. We've got the lowdown on all your condom options right here. Polyurethane Why you'd use it: For those allergic to latex, which is the most commonly used material to make condoms, polyurethane condoms offer an alternative. Many also claim that polyurethane condoms are more sensitive. What you need to know: These condoms are heat conductive, meaning there's more sensation. They can also be used with oil-based lubricants--something you can't do with latex condoms. They have no taste or smell, which makes them a good choice for oral sex. Lambskin Why you'd use it: People who are allergic to latex also use Lambskin condoms. Like polyurethane condoms, many men claim lambskins provide more sensation. What you need to know: Lambskin can be very porous, meaning it contains microscopic holes that allows the semen to leak through. This makes them very risky to use. Although lambskin condoms protect against the allergic reactions to latex, they don't protect against much of anything else--like STDs or pregnancy. Non Lubricated Condoms Why you'd use it: Used for protection during oral sex and for intercourse if you're allergic to lube. What you need to know: Oftentimes, the lube included on condoms is a spermicide--the stuff like nonoxynol-9 that kills sperm and some bacteria. So when using a non-lubricated condom, it's important to take extra steps for protection. Because you won't have the spermicide as a "safety net" if the condom breaks or falls off, it's necessary to use a condom that fits correctly. It's also important to use a durable condom to help ensure that it doesn't break. And if you decide to use lube after all, make sure it's a water-based lubricant. Oil based lubes like Vaseline can cause the condom to tear. Larger Condoms Why you'd use it: Think about it - hats and gloves come in all shapes and sizes for heads and hands, so it's natural that condoms come in all shapes and sizes for penises. You don't try to shove an extra small baseball cap on your head, do you? A condom should fit securely, but not be stretched out. What you need to know: The more stretched a condom is, the more likely it is to break. Studies have shown that many men are bigger than they think. Here's how to tell if you're underestimating: if the circumference of your penis (take a measurement at one inch above the base) is more than five and a quarter inches, chances are you need a larger condom. Girls, beware: don't buy large condoms for your man if they're not needed, and don't let him buy them to show off! If they're not filled completely, they can slip off or leak, leaving both of you unprotected. Smaller Condoms Why you'd use it: If your member happens to be a bit smaller (length and width in the lower 4 inch range), you need a smaller condom. There are condoms available that are smaller in both length and width. What you need to know: Don't let your (or your guy's) ego prevent you from buying the smaller condom you need. It is extremely dangerous to use a loose-fitting condom. Suck it up and d eal. Textured Why you'd use it: From bumps and studs to full-blown ribs, textured condoms give the "receiver" a little something extra. What you need to know: These condoms all pretty much have the same idea: slight bumps or ribs that run up and down the length of the condom meant for extra stimulation. Special Shapes Why you'd use it: For increased sensitivity in the penis. What you need to know: Don't let the shape freak you out! It looks like a regular condom from the base up, but once you hit the head, it's a little strange. There are bulging pouches at the top, leaving room at the head of the penis where more nerve endings are. The loose fit allows the nerve endings to be at their most sensitive. Also, the extra material rubs against the "receiver" in extra-pleasurable ways. Flavored Condoms Why you'd use it: Aimed at those who are playing it extra-safe during oral sex, flavored condoms help reduce that taste of rubber. These condoms come in every flavor imaginable including mint, cola, grape, banana, strawberry, and more! What you need to know: If those don't do the trick and you're still just licking latex, then try some flavored, edible lube. Water based and compatible with latex, flavored lubes come in many different types like strawberry-kiwi passion, bubble gum, and cinnamon. You can have fun mixing and matching the flavored condoms with the flavored lube to come up with your favorite combination! The Female Condom Why you'd use it: If the guy has an aversion to wearing a condom, the woman can take the initiative and put this in. What you need to know: Relatively new and worn by the woman instead of the man (hence the name "the female condom") it is also made from polyurethane. It provides the same comfort and protection as the male polyurethane condom: durability, non-porous, heat conductive, hypoallergenic, and can be used safely with oil-based lubricants. (Those who have tried it claim that it increases the sensitivity for both men and women.) Novelty Why you'd use it: Well, for fun. What you need to know: You've seen them in novelty gift stores and catalogs: neon, glow-in-the-dark, small pecker, or XXXL condoms. But before you hastily strap one of these on in the heat of the moment, make sure that they can be used for protection. Most of these varieties, including the neon and glow-in-the-dark, are not designed to protect against pregnancy or disease. So read the small print on these condom boxes so you don't have to read the small print on home pregnancy test kits! Dental Dams Why you'd use it: Dental dams are small squares of latex (the same material used for most condoms) used for safety while performing oral sex on the vagina or anus; it acts as a barrier between the mouth and the body. What you need to know: Before using, rinse the powder from the square (it can cause irritation). |