Condoms

Condoms

Condoms are the only form of protection that helps to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV and prevent pregnancy.

A number of different types of condom 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.

There is also a female condom, or vaginal sheath, which is used by a woman and which fits inside her vagina.

Condoms are usually made of latex or polyurethane. If possible you should use a latex condom, as they are slightly more reliable which means they are safer.

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

Polyurethane condoms are made of a type of plastic that are thinner than latex condoms, so they increase sensitivity and are more agreeable in feel and appearance to some people. They are generally more expensive than latex condoms and slightly less flexible so more lubrication is usually needed.

Lubrication on condoms varies as 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 is also a good way to prevent condom breakage.

Some Condoms contain a spermicide called Nonoxynol 9. In the past adding Nonoxynol 9 to condoms was thought to prevent pregnancy and the transmission of HIV and other STDs, but it is now known to be ineffective and in some cases even increase the chances because some people have an allergic reaction to Nonoxynol 9 that can result in little sores, which can actually make the transmission of HIV more likely. Because of this, you should only use condoms and lubricants containing Nonoxynol 9 if you are HIV negative and know that your partner is too.

However, using a condom (even if it contains Nonoxynol 9) is much safer than having unprotected sex.

To discover more about condoms and how to have better sex with them feel free to take a look at any of the articles and links provided below.