Tips for Using Condoms for Safe Sex

We all know that using a condom is the best choice (next to abstinence) for avoiding getting and transmitting STDs and that it is important to use a condom for safe sex and your sexual health. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that: “Laboratory studies have demonstrated that latex condoms provide an essentially impermeable barrier to particles the size of STD pathogens… Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are highly effective in preventing the sexual transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS [and] other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).”—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

But, with so many new types of condoms on the market it is sometimes hard to figure out what condom is right for you. Check out these simple tips that will guide you to choosing a condom. ‘Cause, STDs are NOT sexy.

Different Condom Types

There are two types of condoms that you can use to protect yourself from STIs and getting pregnant. These include the popular penis-sheath condom for men and the female condom that fits inside of the vagina that is worn by woman during sex. The Female Condom is a soft, loose-fitting plastic pouch that lines the vagina. It has a soft ring at each end. The ring at the closed end is used to put the sheath inside the vagina and holds it in place. The other ring stays outside the vagina and partly covers the lip area.

Penis-sheath condoms come in different sizes such as small, medium, large and extra large. Make sure you get the size that is right for you by measuring your penis when erect and then check the condom length (from 3” to 11.9”) before you purchase them. If your condom is too tight it might break, and if it is too loose and it may slip off during sex.

Condoms for Pleasure

Are you worried that using a condom will take away your sensitivity during sex? Not a problem. There are now plenty of extra thin condoms on the market (called bareback, bareskin, ultra thin and micro thin condoms) to provide a tapered, secure fit for ultimate pleasure. And, for women, there are plenty of textured condoms that enhance her pleasure including ones with ribbed and studded condom textures.

Many condoms now come with a reservoir tip to hold semen after orgasm which also prevents the condom from breaking during intercourse. However, comfort fit condoms provide more movement around the head of the penis which also aids in added stimulation and sensation. These are also great for men who are more well endowed, giving him extra room and ensuring a more comfortable fit.

And, while we are on the topic of pleasure, there are condoms that can be used for sensation play for couples. These have sensation gels that provide tingling, cooling, and warming sensual pleasures for penetrative sex.

Need More Endurance?

If you are a guy and have a hard time lasting long, never fear. There are condoms that have a desensitizing gel which help with performance issues and can help extend your pleasure.

Latex Condoms Alternatives

If you are allergic to latex, there are several companies that make medical-grade polyurethane condoms that protect against STIs. However, avoid Natural Lambskin condoms if you want protection during sex, as these only protect against getting pregnant. The natural sheaths are porous, which means they have tiny holes that STIs can get through.

Lubricated or Not?

Condoms come in lubricated and non-lubricated types. Which is best? Well that really depends on you as it is more personal choice. If using condoms for oral sex, lubrication might taste gross. However, for vaginal and anal sex, lubricated condoms work great. And, you can always add your own lube if you need more for slippery sex. You can learn more about different lubricants here.

Beware of Nonoxynol 9 (N-9)

Nonoxynol 9 (N-9) is a spermicide that is sometimes added to condoms and even lubricants. It was used to kill sperm, but also to reduce the chance of getting infected by an STI or HIV. However, studies conducted by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) and WHO (World Health Organization) showed that N-9 can cause tissue irritation and small lesions, making it easier for a virus such as HIV or STIs to invade the body. So, N-9 does not protect against HIV infection, it may in fact increase the chance of getting infected.

Flavored Condoms for Oral Sex

Most condoms, whether lubricated or not, don’t taste that great. However, you can purchase condoms in many different flavors including Banana, Cherry and even Bacon flavors to enhance oral sex, and prevent against STDs.

Dental Dams

Dental Dams are latex barriers that are used during oral-genital sex to help reduce the risk of getting an STI. These thins strips of latex are places on the vulva or anus, for purposes of cunninglingus or analingus, by acting as a barrier to vaginal and anal secretions that may contain bacteria and viruses. They’re very thin, yet reliable and strong, so your partner gets the most stimulation while you both remain highly protected. Dental Dams come in a variety of delicious flavors to make the encounter more enjoyable. Sexually transmitted diseases may be passed during oral sex.

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