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How to choose a condom

The many types of condoms now available can make choosing one seem overwhelming, but learning about the differences will help you make a selection. For your safety, it is important to understand the difference between novelty and FDA-approved condoms. Novelties are for entertainment only; if worn, they are intended to be removed before intercourse. Since they are not made to be worn during intercourse, they will not protect you and your partner from disease and/or pregnancy. Be sure that you are buying FDA-approved condoms for actual use.

Skin or latex?

Another important thing to be aware of is the difference between latex condoms and natural skin (lamb caecum) condoms. Skin condoms are highly effective in preventing pregnancy because, like latex condoms, they do not permit sperm to pass through the walls of the condom. However, since they are made of natural membrane, the material contains tiny pores which may allow the microscopic AIDS virus to pass through. To protect yourself and your partner from HIV, choose an FDA-approved latex condom.

Variations in latex.

Several features distinguish latex condoms from each other. The variety of latex condoms on the market allows for personal preference. Condoms vary in shape . Most condoms have a reservoir tip. Only a few have a plain tip. Condoms may be regular shaped (with straight sides), form fit (indented just below the glans or "head" of the penis), or they may be flared (wider over the glans). In addition, some condoms are textured with ribs or bumps. Condoms come in a variety of colors. The lubrication on condoms varies: non-lubricated condoms, condoms lubricated with a silicone substance, and condoms with a water-based lubricant. Many lubricated condoms are now available with a spermicide (Nonoxynol 9) added. It's up to you. All of these differences 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.

How to use a condom

1. Open package at one corner, being careful not to tear into the condom... sharp fingernails or rough handling can damage the latex. Be sure package and condom appear to be in good condition. Check the expiration date if it has one.

 

2. Squeeze the tip of the condom. This is to eliminate air bubbles as you unroll it onto an erect penis. Leaving the tip empty helps reduce the chance of breakage and allows room for the ejaculation fluid (cum).

 

3. Unroll the condom fully, to base of penis, if possible. The proper fit is important and there are a lot of different styles available. There ARE different sizes of condoms available.

 

4. After intercourse, withdraw while the penis is still erect, and hold onto the base of the condom to prevent contents from spilling.

 

General information

Put on a condom before any skin-to-skin contact because sperm and disease organisms can be exchanged even without penetration. Use each condom only once. Do not unroll a condom before putting it on. Use condoms on sex toys to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Putting a small amount of water-based lubricant inside the tip of a condom may increase the sensitivity and lessen the chance of breakage. Do not use a condom if the package is damaged, or the condom itself looks discolored, brittle or unusual. Use only water-based lubricants with latex. Vaseline and other oil-based products like lotions and massage oils can cause latex condoms to break down, so do not use them as lubricants. Be sure to wash your hands of all lotion or massage oil before putting on a condom. Both latex and natural lambskin condoms are effective in preventing pregnancy, but for prevention of disease, including HIV/AIDS, use a latex condom. Do not rely on a condom that has been carried around in a back pocket or wallet, because the body heat and friction can damage the latex of the condom. Tie the end of a used condom to keep the ejaculate from spilling. Condoms are not biodegradable, so do not flush them down the toilet.

Advantages of condoms

Condoms are an inexpensive and effective method of birth control (up to 98% effective when used with spermicidal foam). They offer men a direct way to share the responsibility of contraception. They can greatly reduce the chance of transmitting HIV (the AIDS virus) during sexual activity (latex condoms). help prevent the spread of STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital warts, etc. Condoms are easily available in a wide variety of places: convenience and grocery stores, drugstores, clinics and special outlets like The Rubber Tree. For some men, they help lengthen the time before ejaculation (prolong intercourse). They have no harmful side effects. And, they can help promote open and honest communication between sexual partners.

Storage

Stored properly, condoms are good 3-5 years from the date of manufacture. Heat and light deteriorate latex condoms, increasing the likelihood of breakage during use. So, for best results, do not store condoms near heat vents, light fixtures, or in direct sunlight. Other places to avoid storing condoms are the glove compartment of a car and in your wallet.

Notes about safer sex

The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and the risk of pregnancy has been joined by another serious risk, the AIDS virus. It is important to know that you may be at risk of pregnancy an/or disease if you choose to engage in sexual activity. There is no 100% effective way to protect you or your partner except abstinence (deciding not to have sex). If you do choose to have sex, there are many ways that you can reduce your risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease. Get to know your partner before having sex with him or her, discuss sexual and drug use histories. Consider getting the AIDS antibody test, and have your partner consider testing, too. Explore safer ways of being intimate with your partner, like sensual massage or mutual masturbation (safer activities mean you do not take your partner1s blood, semen, or vaginal secretions into your body). Use latex safer sex supplies to prevent exchanging bodily fluids: