The essentials you need to know about condoms

Condoms are a fundamental part of sexual health, offering protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and/or unplanned pregnancy. Let's explore the different aspects of condoms, including the materials, types available, storage, and tips for use.

Different Condom Materials: Pros and Cons

Latex

Pros: Highly elastic, effective in preventing pregnancy and STDs, widely available, affordable.

Cons: Some people are allergic to latex, it can be damaged by oils and oil-based lubricants.

Polyurethane

Pros: Alternative for people allergic to latex, thinner than latex, good heat conductor, safe with any type of lubricant.

Cons: Less elastic, can be more expensive.

Polyisoprene

Pros: Similar to latex in terms of elasticity and resistance, suitable for those allergic to latex, comfortable.

Cons: Can be a little more expensive than latex.

Lambskin (Lamb Intestine)

Pros: More natural feeling, biodegradable.

Cons: Does not protect against STDs, more expensive, animal origin.

What are natural latex condoms?

Natural latex condoms are made from latex extracted from rubber trees, an elastic and resistant material. They are widely used due to their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Difference Between Natural Latex and Latex Condoms

The terms "natural latex" and "latex" generally refer to the same material, namely latex derived from the rubber tree. However, the term "natural latex" can be used to emphasize that the material does not contain synthetic additives that may be found in some latex formulations.

Vegan condoms

Vegan condoms are made without animal products and are not tested on animals. They also avoid the use of casein, a milk protein, which is commonly used in the latex condom manufacturing process.

Difference between vegan condoms and other condoms

The main difference is the absence of animal products and loyalty to ethical production standards. Vegan condoms can be made from natural latex or synthetic materials such as polyurethane and polyisoprene.

Pros:

Hypoallergenic: Without casein, they are less likely to cause allergies.

Ethics: Produced without animal cruelty, aligned with vegan and environmental values.

Variety: Available in various shapes and sizes, including textured and ultra-thin options.

Cons:

Availability: There may be fewer available on the market compared to conventional condoms.

Cost: May be slightly more expensive due to ethical production processes.

Condom dimensions: Lengths, Widths and Thicknesses

Condoms come in various dimensions to ensure comfort and safety:

Length: Typically between 17 cm and 19 cm, with longer options available.

Width: Ranges from 49mm to 56mm, with narrower and wider options available.

Thickness: Can vary from 0.01 mm (ultra-thin) to 0.07 mm (thicker), affecting feel and security.

Lubricated vs. not lubricated

Lubricated: They facilitate penetration, reduce the risk of breakage, and may contain spermicides.

Non-lubricated: Allows the addition of lubricant according to preference, suitable for those who are sensitive to commercial lubricants.

Types of condoms on the market

Classics: Available with and without flavor, suitable for vaginal, anal and oral intercourse.

For oral sex: With different flavors to make oral sex more enjoyable.

Feminine: Used internally by women, they provide greater control.

With stimulation: Textured (with ribs, dots, etc.), to increase pleasure.

Diseases that condoms can prevent

Condoms are effective in preventing several STIs, including:

• HIV

• Gonorrhea

• Chlamydia

• Syphilis

• Genital herpes

• HPV (Human Papilloma virus)

Condom storage and transportation

• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

• Transport: Avoid storing in wallets or pockets for long periods to prevent damage.

How to put on a condom

Confirm that the condom is within its expiration date and that the packaging is not damaged by holes or tears.

Open the packaging carefully without using teeth, scissors, knives or any sharp object.

Masculine:

• Hold the tip of the condom, unroll it a little and check that it is on the correct side.

• Place the condom on the tip of the erect penis, squeezing the tip/reservoir to prevent air from entering.

• Unroll to the base and pull the tip/reservoir slightly to create space between the condom and the penis.

NOTE: However, there are already condoms to put on when the penis is not erect, this is the case of Uniq Smart condoms, which can be put on up to two hours before sexual intercourse.

Feminine:

• Squeeze the inner ring and insert it into the vagina.

• Position the outer ring outside the vagina, covering the vulva.

NOTE: There are female condoms on the market with different shapes and they are placed in a slightly different way. Which is the case of Uniq Lady condoms, that are inserted almost like a tampon without an applicator.