Condom Crazy Part 1: A Guide For Those Still Left Wondering

Okay guys, I've been talking to my male friends and it seems that some of you still aren't getting the facts on condom use. So I've compiled a two-part comprehensive guide on condoms that should answer pretty much every important question that you may have. And by important, of course, I am referring to the safety and pleasure of both you and your partner. So read on and take note, this is the straight stuff...

What exactly are condoms made of? Typically, the condoms of today are made of latex rubber. Coming from a tree, latex rubber begins as a natural material and is processed into a thin yet durable material that offers excellent protection against disease and pregnancy. Unfortunately, some people have or can develop an allergy to latex. If you or your partner experience any discomfort while using or after useing latex condoms (such as a rash or sores), discontinue their use and seek out an equivalent alternative such as the polyurethane condom mentioned below. Also, with anything latex, care must be taken not to bring this type of condom in contact with any petroleum (oil) based products. For example, do not use baby oil, Vaseline, hand cream or anything with oil in its contents as a sexual lubricant. The condom will break down and/or become permeable to disease and ovum seeking sperm within seconds. Don't believe it? Fill a condom with air (like a balloon) and then proceed to rub a liberal amount of Vaseline on it. The Vaseline will eat away at the latex and cause the condom balloon to burst within a few moments. Not good!

Polyurethane condoms provide a safe alternative to everyone's trusty favorite, the latex condom. Those experiencing any adverse allergic reactions to latex can expect to not have any of those same problems with polyurethane -- it is a completely different material. Not only a good alternative to latex for those with allergies, polyurethane provides some other distinct benefits. Usually polyurethane condoms are thinner than their latex cousins and thus provide an improvement in sensation for both the male and female. Also, if preferred, polyurethane condoms may be used with oil-based lubricants, as the material is not broken down on exposure the same way that latex is. On the downside, it is said that polyurethane condoms may break slightly more often than latex ones. Although this may be true, proper application and plenty of lubrication should almost eliminate any possibility of polyurethane condom failure.

When used properly lambskin condoms can be effective in the prevention pregnancy. However, lambskin has tiny pores that leave these condoms permeable to sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV. Lambskin condoms are most often used by monogamous couples, where one partner has an allergy to latex but there is no fear for the contraction of STDs.

What condom size and shape should I choose? Condoms come in many shapes and sizes but the preference for either one comes down to you -- and your little buddy of course.

For size, choose a condom that closely approximates the true size of your penis. If you are average sized, do not purchase large sized condoms -- even if they do boost your ego when pulling them out the box. Take caution, because attempting to use a condom that is too big may result in it slipping off during intercourse. This could possibly result in you contracting an STD or causing an unwanted pregnancy.

When considering shape, take a look at the manufacturers packaging. Sometimes they include a profile of the condom shape on the box. These shapes range from straight with a reservoir tip, to form fitting or enhanced with a larger head. Designs that are contoured with a larger head are intended to enhance pleasurable sensations for men by increasing the amount of friction to the glans.

Plain? Ribs? Dots? Which texture is best?
Condom manufacturers have provided consumers with a wide variety of textures to choose from. Again, check the packaging to get an indication to what type of texture is on the condom. Some may have no texture at all while others will have ribs or dots or a combination of the two. These textures are designed to increase the amount of stimulation to the woman's vagina during intercourse. The relief of the texture may not be great, but most women will claim that increased sensitivity occurs when using this enhanced version of the condom. Personally, anything that can serve to increase the level of pleasure I receive during intercourse is a good thing. And for most women, achieving an orgasm during penis-in-vagina sex is difficult if not impossible. So why not try something different for a change? It could prove helpful. Typically the cost difference of textured condoms is nil to negligible, so purchase a variety of different textures and find out which one she likes best!

What the hell is Nonoxynol and why are there 9 of them?
Nonoxynol-9 is a spermicidal agent (kills sperm) that is added inside some condom packages along with a lubricant. This combination is intended to act as added protection against pregnancy while providing a slippery lubricated surface that can ease penetration and enhance sensations. Unfortunately Nonoxynol-9 spermicide may also cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you or your partner becomes sore or itchy, discontinue the use of this product immediately. As a possible reaction, tiny sores may occur which can actually increase the likelihood of contracting sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV. So take caution with condoms that have nonoxynol-9 added.

Uh oh! What should I do if the condom breaks?
If a condom does happen to break during intercourse, stop having sex immediately, pull out your penis and replace the condom with a new one. If your condom has broken and you feel that ejaculate has leaked out and could potentially impregnate your partner, consider emergency contraception such as the morning-after pill. Consult a physician for more details.

Whats up with the female condom?
The female condom is a safe and effective alternative to regular or 'male condoms'. This condom consists of polyurethane sheath with a large ring at the opening and a slightly smaller ring at the closed end. The smaller ring is inserted into the woman's vagina up to the cervix while the large ring remains outside covering and protecting the outer labia. Again, plenty of lubrication should be used for vaginal intercourse with a female condom in order to maximize sensation and prevent breakage. Care should also be taken when removing the condom with ejaculate inside. Before removal, the outer ring should be twisted a few times to seal in the ejaculate. It can then be removed by pulling gently outward and upward, taking care to prevent spillage.

Whether you're in a committed relationship or indulge in the practice of multiple-partner sex, condoms are always the best way to protect you and your partner(s) against the worries associated with today's sexual relationships. So, grab a pack and make it fun, try some different textures, shapes or even colors -- after all, you're both worth it!