The world of condoms is as vast as it is overwhelming.
If you want to learn more, consider this your guide to condoms.
Want To Transform Your Outdoor Space into a Calming, Boho-Chic Escape (Um, Yes)?
Its just a matter of choosing an option that will satisfy you and your partner.
And this is the guide youve been looking for.
Keep reading to learn everything you oughta know about condoms.
Emily Rymland, DNP FNP-C, is a nurse practitioner at Nurx with a focus on HIV care.
sex educator and owner of Early to Bed
Why use a condom?
Most condoms are inexpensive and widely available on the market without requiring a prescription.
Which STIs do condoms help prevent?
Which STIs are condomslesseffective against?
Its important to keep in mind that condoms arent 100 percent effective against preventing the spread of certain infections.
Think:herpes,genital warts, andhuman papillomavirus infection(HPV).
Is (condom) size important?
Selecting a condom that fits is important for safety and comfort.
Standard condom sizes usually come in standard, slim, and large options.
Emily Rymland, DNP FNP-C, is a nurse practitioner at Nurx with a focus on HIV care.
An appropriately sized condom can enhance pleasure while ensuring safety.
What are condoms made of?
In addition to these materials, some condoms are also coated in spermicide.
Spermicidal condoms often contain nonoxynol-9 (or N-9), a chemical that kills sperm.
If a condom is used properly, you shouldnt need a spermicide, says Dr. Rymland.
Are there eco-friendly condoms?
Most condoms that protect against STIs are made with latex or latex alternatives, whichare not biodegradable.
Luckily, thereareoptions that you’ve got the option to feel better about using.
Just keep in mind that theres currently no governing body that certifies condoms as organic.
Additionally, there are an increasing number of condom brands that employ Fair Trade Certified practices.
Lubricated condoms
Pro:
Con:
These condoms come pre-lubricated to lessen friction and increase pleasure for everyone involved.
Lubricated condoms can also contain other agents, like warming or cooling agents to promote a tingling sensation.
Bonus: A 50-pack will set you back just $11.
Just keep in mind that this optionmustbe used with lube so as to prevent breakage.
Theyre sold in a pack of five with three condoms per pack.
Latex condoms
Condoms made of latex, a material sourced from natural rubber, are usually widely accessibleandaffordable.
One pack comes with 36 individually-packed condoms, making this pick budget-friendly, too.
As a plus, the condoms are pre-lubricated.
Shop em in a pack of six.
SKYN, Lubricated Latex-Free Condoms
Another latex-free variation, SKYNs condoms are made of polyisoprene.
The pack comes with 36 condoms and with a 4.6-star overall rating on Amazon after more than 29,000 reviews.
For under $9, youll receive a pack of three individually-wrapped condoms.
Theyre made with 100 percent natural latex, cornstarch, and a silicone-based lubricant as their primary ingredients.
They ingredients are vegan-friendly, too.
Shop the condoms in two options, including a plus-sized variation.
They are alsoFSC Certified, which verifies that their products are sourced from responsibly managed forests.
Not just wonderful for the planet, the condoms are also made without animal ingredients and potentially harmful nitrosamine.
Theyre sold in a pack of 12.
Also known as extended pleasure condoms, these are another option that can promise longer-lasting sex.
The lubricated condoms are made of latex that is 90 micrometers thick.
Plus, theyre cheap.
For under $12, youll receive a 48-pack.
While they might be thinner than the average, this doesnt mean they are more prone to breakage.
Shop them in a pack of three for under $9.
Extra-Headroom Condoms
Another condom that can turn up the pleasure are ones made with extra headroom.
It results in more friction on the users frenulum, she says.
Theyre made out of latex and coated in a silicone-based lubricant.
One thing to keep in mind is that theyre sold per piece at $0.70 each.
You might also appreciate that the lubricated latex condoms leave out artificial flavors, additives, and harmful chemicals.
Currently, there is only one FDA-approved option available in the US.
While these are readily available for purchase, Dr. Rymland says Saran Wrap could come in clutch.
[Using] water soluble lubricants are safe for condoms, says Dr. Rymland.
In any case, Dr. Rymland considers lubricant as amustwhen it comes to condom usage.
Its super critical that theres always enough lubricant on a condom, she says.
They should be in places that have a consistent temperature thats like room temperature, she says.
FAQs about condoms
How long do condoms last?
Can you use two condoms for double the protection?
Put it plainly and simply, no.
What are the most trusted condom brands?
How can I talk to my partner about using a condom?
Tell your partner why using condoms is important to you and find out why they are resistant.
It is also perfectly okay to make condom use a requirement to having sex with you, says Deysach.
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