How to Select a Condom or Latex Barrier

Some studies have shown that the more experience a person has using condoms, the more likely it is that he or she will use them properly, and the less chance that they'll break. Gives new meaning to "Practice makes perfect!"

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Condoms With Spermicide
• Dental Dams
• Female Condoms
• Lubricated Latex Condoms
• Non Latex Condoms
• Non Lubricated Condoms
• Personal Lubricants
• Specialty Condom

1. Choose latex (rubber) or polyurethane (plastic) condoms - these offer the most protection against disease and pregnancy. Latex is safest. Polyurethane is thinner but allows for more sensation to be felt by the wearer.

2. Pick a size that isn't so tight that it pinches the wearer or so loose that it may fall off during intercourse. Width and length vary for different brands and styles of condoms.

3. Consider the different features that condoms offer. A reservoir tip leaves extra room for semen. Textures - ribs or studs (bumps) - can add to the pleasure of one or both people using the condom.

4. Check expiration dates. There should be a date stamped on the package. Most condoms are good for three to five years if stored properly. (Don't keep them in your wallet - they won't last this way.)

5. Choose from a rainbow of colors to make it even more fun.

Tips & Warnings

• Involve your partner in picking out a condom that he or she likes. Or take the plunge and make the decision by yourself; surprise him or her with something new!
• Decide if you need a lubricant. Used properly, these can reduce the odds of the condom breaking and make intercourse easier. Latex condoms work best with water-soluble or water-based lubricants.
• Nonoxynol 9 and other spermicides help kill a man's sperm and further reduce the risk of pregnancy. They may be used for anal or vaginal intercourse and should not be swallowed or used during oral sex.
• Men allergic to latex may first put on a condom made from another material and then put a latex condom over that, using a little lubricant in between the condoms to prevent breakage. If the partner is allergic to latex, the man can put on a latex condom and put a condom made of another material on top of it, putting a little lubricant between the two condoms.
• Many studies have shown that latex condoms are about 90 percent effective in protecting against diseases and pregnancy, and that polyurethane is slightly less effective than latex. If they are not used properly, however, the effectiveness of latex condoms may drop to as low as 75 percent. Read "Use a Condom," under Related eHows, to help maximize your safety.
• Natural skin, edible and many novelty condoms are not designed to protect against diseases such as HIV.
• Lubricants made with oils weaken latex and make it more likely to break.

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[SarahEHR]

on 11/3/2008 While updating the birth control content on WEGO Health, I came across this page on how to select a condom or latex barrier. The thoroughness was impressive and WEGO Health now plans on featuring this eHow tutorial on the birth control condom page (http://birth-control.wegohealth.com/birth-control-condom.html) in hopes of providing more resources for our current members.

WEGO Health is an open community that connects communities together. Health activists like you come to WEGO Health to connect with others passionate about helping people live healthier lives. Learn more about us here: http://www.wegohealth.com/about-us.html

We’d love you to join the community and introduce yourself. Please feel free to set up a profile and promote your tutorial on our website. I recommend you start here: http://community.wegohealth.com/ and consider joining one of the many groups we have there.

[SarahEHR]

on 11/3/2008 While updating the birth control content on WEGO Health, I came across this page on how to select a condom or latex barrier. The thoroughness was impressive and WEGO Health now plans on featuring this eHow tutorial on the birth control condom page (http://birth-control.wegohealth.com/birth-control-condom.html) in hopes of providing more resources for our current members.

WEGO Health is an open community that connects communities together. Health activists like you come to WEGO Health to connect with others passionate about helping people live healthier lives. Learn more about us here: http://www.wegohealth.com/about-us.html

We’d love you to join the community and introduce yourself. Please feel free to set up a profile and promote your tutorial on our website. I recommend you start here: http://community.wegohealth.com/ and consider joining one of the many groups we have there.

[hgirl]

on 1/15/2008 stdpal.com--- herpes dating site for H singles

on 11/22/2005 To make him last longer buy Her Pleasure condoms. These condoms contain a numbing gel inside. He may last about 10 more minutes.

on 11/22/2005 Using condoms with ticklers (bits of condom material that point out) in hopes of improving the sexual experience is NOT a good idea, because they are more apt to tear during intercourse.