 Condoms are an effective and convenient way to prevent pregnancy and guard against sexually transmitted diseases. Male condoms--condoms worn by a man--come in various sizes, shapes, colors, and thicknesses, and may contain spermicides. Female condoms are worn by a woman. The only brands of females condom currently available are the FC and FC2.Protection
Preventing pregnancy and preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be equally important considerations when purchasing condoms. Latex, polyurethane, and lambskin condoms are equally effective as contraceptives, preventing pregnancy for 97 out of 100 couples per year of use--when they are used properly. Because very tiny holes or tears can destroy a condom's usefulness, all name-brand condom manufacturers test their products to ensure high quality and reliable protection. To prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, use latex condoms. They offer the best protection against HIV, hepatitis B, and other STDs. Lambskin condoms, such as Trojan lambskin condoms, are less effective than latex against STDs. But they may be an option if you or your partner is allergic to latex. Polyurethane condoms (for example, Durex Avanti Superthin Lubricated Non-Latex condoms and Trojan Supra condoms) are another latex-free option. Studies assessing the polyurethane condom have found that they break and slip more often than other condoms. This suggests that polyurethane condoms may provide less protection from STDs. Be cautious of novelty condoms that do not provide protection against disease or pregnancy. These condoms are often sold as joke gifts and usually contain a warning against using them as protection. Spermicides
Manufacturers often coat the inside of their condoms with spermicide to further reduce the risk of pregnancy. The ingredient most used is nonoxynol-9 in concentrations from 1 percent to 12 percent. Examples of condoms that contain spermicides include >LifeStyles spermicidally lubricated latex condoms and >Trojan Magnum condoms. Sensitivity
Some people believe that condoms interfere with sexual pleasure by reducing sensitivity. Lambskin condoms supposedly provide more sensitivity than latex condoms, but that claim hasn’t been proven. Some manufacturers claim that adding lubrication to condoms provides increased sensitivity. Lubricated condoms include >Trojan Ultra Pleasure lubricated latex condoms and LifeStyles lubricated latex condoms. Other manufacturers promise more sensitivity from a condom's special shape or membrane thickness. Some examples are >LifeStyles Ultra Sensitive latex condoms and >Trojan Very Sensitive lubricated latex condoms. Try several different brands to decide which one feels best for you and your partner. Durability
Although manufacturers design condoms to provide adequate strength when used properly, some are designed to be extra-strong and to reduce the risk of accidental breakage. Some examples are >LifeStyles Extra Strength spermicidally lubricated latex condoms and Trojan Extra Strength lubricated latex condoms. Despite the claims of extra protection, there are no regulations that define exactly what that means. To reduce the chance of breaking a condom, use proper technique and a water-based lubricant, such as >K-Y personal lubricant jelly. Never use petroleum jelly, baby oil, or other oil-based products on a condom or when using a condom. These products may weaken the condom and increase the risk of breakage. Shape
Manufacturers have designed some condoms to enhance the pleasure and sensation of both partners. These condoms may have a specially designed tip--such products include >inSpiral condoms and >LifeStyles Xtra Pleasure lubricated latex condoms. They may also feature ribs, rings, or studs on the outside and inside: two examples are Trojan Pleasure Mesh condoms and >LifeStyles Studded lubricated latex condoms. Remember
When using condoms, always use the proper technique (as described in the condom packaging) for putting on the condom and for disposing of it after intercourse. This is critical to ensure protection from diseases and pregnancy. Condoms weaken with age, so always check the condom package for its expiration date and throw out any expired condoms. Do not reuse condoms. Sources:
Contraceptive Technology. Ardent Media, 1998.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
Frezieres RG. "Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Polyurethane Condom: Results from a Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial," Family Planning Perspectives 31 (1999).
Frezieres RG. “Acceptability evaluation of a natural rubber latex, a polyurethane, and a new non-latex condom”. Contraception June 2000.
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 2000.
This answer prepared 1/02/2001.
This information updated 2/6/2007.
- >latex condoms
- >Lambskin condoms
- >Polyurethane condoms
| 
view shopping bag
