Condom Selection
Finding The Right Condom:
Both penises and condoms come in a range of shapes and sizes. We look at our self in the mirror and think regular or slim. We go to the drugstore and either too embarrassed to buy the size we need or wanting to impress our partner with the label we buy magnum. For a few the magnum is great and for the rest of us it’s too much pocket for the rocket. The standard condom
provides a good fit for about 75% of all penises. For the other 25%, snugger or roomier condoms are made. Condoms are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, textures, colors, flavors and thickness. Variety packs of condoms are sometimes available and this is a great way to find out what you like best. The protection offered by a novelty condom might be none at all so always read the label. Thicker condoms are recommended for heavy-duty sex and anal intercourse.
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Condom Materials:
Latex (rubber) is the most common synthetic material followed by polyurethane (plastic). Polyurethane condoms are thinner than latex condoms, which may increase sensitivity but seem to break easier. Ultra-thin latex condoms are also available to increase sensitivity. Unless you are allergic to it, latex is the recommended material as it provides good protection against viruses such as HIV, and is readily available in most countries. Natural condoms made of animal membranes are also obtainable. Natural condoms are moderately expensive and are not effective in preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
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Pre-lubricated Condoms:
Not all condoms are lubricated. For others a variety of lubrications are used. Some are lubricated with silicone substances and others with a water-based lubricant. The function of the lubricant is to make the condom easier to put on and to add comfort during use. Some lubricated condoms are also available with a spermicide (Nonoxynol 9). The spermicidal lubricant aims to provide an additional level of protection if any of the semen leaks out. Spermicide reduces the likelihood of pregnancy. Some individuals are allergic to Nonoxynol 9. An allergic reaction may result in small sores, making the transmission of HIV more likely. Nonoxynol 9 is a suitable spermicide only for women who are HIV-negative and are at low risk of exposure to HIV or other STDs. This product should only be used for vaginal sex.
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Condom Size:
Condom manufacturers have often based size in part on the many erect penis length studies that have been made over the years; the most famous perhaps is founding the 1948 Kinsey study. The Kinsey study relied on self-measurements; men would hold a postcard against their own erect penis, mark the card and drop it in the mail. In that study the average erect penis length was reported at 6.2. (15.7 cm) to 6.4. (16.3 cm).
Lifestyles and other condom companies also do independent research. During a March 2001 spring break in Cancun, Mexico, Lifestyles made a study in which 300 college age men participated. Two nurses measured each erect penis for both its length and girth. As it turned out, three-fourths of all participants were shorter then reported in the Kinsey study, having an average length of 5.877. (14.9 cm), considerably shorter than reported in the 1948 Kinsey study. About two-thirds of the 300 participants ranged between 5.1. (13 cm) and 6.2. (15.7 cm) and 17% measured under 4.5. (11.4 cm). The average girth was determined to be 4.972. (12.6 cm,) with 75% of the men between 4.5. (11.4 cm) and 5.5. (14 cm). The Cancun study actually resulted in Lifestyles adding a slimmer condom to its product line. According to a Lifestyles spokesperson, “It’s absolutely important that we have the best information to make the best-fitting condom. If a condom is too tight, it constricts circulation. It’s uncomfortable, and it reduces sensitivity. If it’s too loose, that’s dangerous.”
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Condom Shape & Texture:
Some condoms have reservoir tips to catch the semen and others have a plain rounded tip. Both styles work fine as long as a collection area is left at the tip when the condom is applied. A condom with a mushroom tip will provide more sensation to the head of the penis as it allows more freedom of movement. Mushroom tips are also more comfortable for the larger penis. The little nubbies on the outside of a ribbed condom provide added sensation to the couple. Some individuals find the nubs too irritating. If your partner is complaining of this, try switching from ribbed to unribbed.
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Condom Thickness:
Extra-strength condoms are available for more intense sex, tight areas and, especially, anal intercourse. They are also a good choice for men who experience problems with breakage.
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Condom Flavor & Aroma:
People occasionally object to the taste or smell of latex condoms. After a few experiences of enjoyable sex this taste and smell will often become an erotic turn on. The additives used by the different brands of condoms, and not the latex, usually cause the taste. Some silicone-lubricated condoms have less taste than the unlubricated condoms. Some perfume-scented condoms can cause allergies. There are a variety of flavored condoms for oral sex such as mint, chocolate, grape and cherry. Flavored condoms are available with and without lubricant.
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Condom Color:
Condoms are available in many colors and some types are even fluorescent. The color of a condom does not affect its performance.
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Also See:
Condom Safety Slogans>>
About Buddy The Male Condom>>
Applying A Condom By Hand>>
Applying A Condom By Mouth>>
Sexual Readiness>>
