Condom - What No One Tells You About Condom
What you Need to Know on How to Put on a Condom Properly
When asked, some men, and women, would reveal that they possess inadequate knowledge on how to put on a condom the right way and that most believe in some myths regarding the use of this particular contraceptive.
What most would need to understand is that before you need to know the ways on how to put on a condom properly, you need to select one that is not expired or damaged. Some condom manufacturers put down the expiration date of their products but when there is no such information on the individual package, look for condoms that are no older than five years for regular latex ones, and two years for those with spermicides. Condoms stored in warm or hot places should also be discarded.
Another important tip to remember is that your penis needs to be erect before you put it on, so a little foreplay would be in order. When you’ve paid attention to demonstrations on how to put on a condom during your sex education class and have a little practice yourself, you would know that the foil package need to be opened carefully so as to avoid and tear or damage. If you’re a neophyte in this particular activity and is having sex with someone with a bit of experience (lucky you), then ask your partner to demonstrate to you on how to put on a condom properly. You will find that with active participation from your partner, your pleasure rises to the next level.
When you’ve properly assimilated the knowledge on how to put on a condom, you’ll also know that a little lubricant spread on the inside and outside surfaces would also be good. Any good source on contraceptives will warn against the use of petroleum-based lubricants and oils on latex condoms. These substances will make condoms prone to breakage. This is also why most latex condoms sold are already added with water-based lubricants only. For rigorous activity, such as anal sex, use a thicker condom with lots of lubricants.
Keep in mind that there are also other issues associated with knowing how to put on a condom properly. One is the issue of safe sex. When instructions and tips on how to put on a condom are heeded, there are lesser chances for accidental pregnancies and contacting sexually transmitted diseases. With AIDS still a leading killer in both developed and third world countries, the value of knowledge on how to protect yourself and your partner cannot be underestimated.
So the next time an opportunity for you to learn the guidelines on how to put on a condom properly comes by, pay attention especially if the information comes from reputed sources, such as public health agencies or local clinics. Though you might think that you might not need such instructions anymore, it wouldn’t hurt to double check, to see if you might miss something or might pick up some new developments regarding the campaign to promote safe sex, and even safe sex.
Rules on When Not to Put on Condom, and When To Put on Condom
From different studies and observations made on the subject of condom use, here are some rules and guidelines meant not to discourage or turn anyone away from using this contraceptive, but rather to enhance the sexual experience as well as achieve maximum condom efficacy.
Do not put on condom without determining its expiration date. Most condoms have a shelf life of about 5 years, less if incorporated with spermicides. Always check the individual packages for information. If expiration date is not shown, read the manufacturing date and count its years of existence. It’s worth your time to do this, as expired products rarely, if ever, deliver on its promise of efficacy.
Do not put on condom stored in your wallet or dashboard for a long time. Heat, be it from your body or from the high temperatures in a car, degrades the latex structure, making it prone to breakage. The same principle also applies to condoms displayed on stores, make sure that they are placed away from direct sunlight or other sources of heat. If you can’t help putting condoms on wallets and dashboards, change your stock weekly.
Do not put on condoms with spermicide nonoxynol-9 if you are unsure of your own or your partner’s STI history. A few recent studies have shown this substance to fail to decrease the user’s chances of contacting HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Do not put on condom too large or too snug for you. Too tight condoms cut off blood circulation, too large ones are prone to slip off during sex. So how do you determine which size is for you? Most condoms are made in order to fit almost everyone, but try to avoid condoms which advertise size (extra large or snugger fit) unless you’re completely uncomfortable with a regular sized condom. Try out using different varieties and brands to know which works best for you.
Do not put on condom without telling your partner about it, as some may be allergic to latex. If such is the case, switch to polyurethane ones.
Do not put on condom inside out. While it may seem obvious, it will take a second or two of concentration to make sure the fold of the condom is rolling on the outside. When you begin trying on different brands, practice also on putting it right so as to avoid any risks when doing the real thing.
Do not use two condoms at a time. Not only will you irritate your own skin, it is totally ineffective, as the two latex surfaces will rub against each other and make the contraceptives prone to breakage.
Do not put on condom without leaving at about half an inch of space, meant for semen storage.
Do not put on condom halfway. No matter how excited you are, make sure that your condom is rolled all the way to the base of the penis.
Do not put on condom that feels brittle, looks faded, or smells more than it normally should. A little quality control goes a long way in protecting you from unnecessary anxieties and sufferings later on. This is also one reason why it’s not advisable to have only one condom at hand when you plan to have sex. Just in case; sometimes you’ll never know if there’s a problem with the condom until you open one.
Do not put on condom made of lamb skin, unless you’re absolutely sure you and your partner are disease-free. Though some people would say that lamb skin condoms afford the user much sensitivity, it is also ineffective in preventing bacteria and viruses from crossing over. Practice a little caution here, and opt instead to use thinner varieties of latex condoms.
There are also several positive points that you should keep in mind when using condoms.
Do put on condom to show you care, not only for your physical well-being, but also that of your partner.
Do put on condom when you know you’re not ready to be a parent.
Do put on condom when you’ve been diagnosed with STD, even if you’re completely cured. This is to prevent infecting your partner or avoid reinfection, as the case may be.
Do put on condom when having sex with a complete stranger. One-night stands are such exciting rush. It can also be a risky practice that will land you in the doctor’s office, sooner or later. So do yourself and your partner a favor, go prepared when cruising or picking up potential sex partners.
Do put on condom even in oral or anal sex. Pathogens, organisms that cause diseases, reside not only in genitals, but in the warm and moist environments of oral cavities and anus.
And lastly, do put on condom that is specially flavored, or scented, or ribbed or studded, and try out several brands and varieties, as preference dictates. You’ll find that being adventurous can help bring some excitement to the process of buying and using condoms.
Be safe! Be smart!
Safe Sex and You : Some Pointers on Avoiding STDs
With increasing incidence and information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and the AIDS epidemic, the term safe sex has also made its way to public consciousness. Loosely defined, safe sex is a practice in which one or both partners take action in preventing the transmission of STDs and HIV. Common diseases that are spread through sexual contact are gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, genital warts, hepatitis B, Chlamydia, and trichomoniasis. The prevalence of these diseases in the U.S. has underscored the urgency of promoting and practicing safe sex. However, there are some diseases that are transferred through non-sexual means, such as needle-sharing and blood transfusion.
Though most STDs are curable, they bring a lot of physical and mental anxieties to the afflicted person. So far, abstinence is the only foolproof way to avoid these unpleasant conditions. However, when abstinence is neither applicable nor desired, there are several ways to prevent the transmission of STDs, all of which are promoted in the practice of safe sex.
First option is to maintain a monogamous relationship with someone whom you are absolutely sure to be disease-free. Be aware, though, that marriage is no guarantee that you won’t contact STDs, as gynecologists have long reported cases of women being infected by cheating husbands, and vice versa.
If you are not married and are in a romantic relationship, know the sexual history of your partner. Insist on honesty when you exchange information on whatever medical conditions both of you have gone through and whether you had medical clearance from doctors. It would also be advisable to insist on adhering to the rules of safe sex and use condoms every time you have sex, especially if you have the tendency to have multiple partners, or engage in oral and anal sex.
Condoms not only prevent pregnancies, they also significantly decrease the risk of getting STDs. Though no research or study have given absolute proof on the efficacy of this contraceptive device against diseases, proper handling and use of condoms ensures almost complete protection, especially latex condoms. Though polyurethane condoms are known to effective in preventing several STDs, there is still a risk of contacting HIV. Additional word of caution to those preferring lambskin condoms: they are only effective in preventing pregnancies and not STDs. It is also important to select condoms that fits the penis snugly, does not easily breaks or slips off, and is thick enough to withstand rigorous sexual activity, as the preference may be. Take time to determine the expiry date and storing the condoms in dark, cool areas.
Other protective devices used in practicing safe sex are female condoms, dental dams for oral sex, and gloves when masturbating. Make sure that sex toys, like dildos and vibrators, are properly cleaned.
It is good to note that safe sex does not only mean the use of protective devices but also incorporates certain preventive practices as well. Reduce the use of recreational drugs and ingestion of alcohol whenever you engage in sexual activity. It would not do any good if one or both of you become heedless, has impaired judgment, becomes reckless, and cannot properly communicate with each other during sex. Doing drugs also affects the immune system and makes the user prone to any form of diseases.
And though it is true that an ounce of prevention translates to a pound of cure, be responsible enough to have regular check ups with your doctor, especially if you disregard the rules of safe sex, like having multiple partners and engaging in one-night stands. Be alert when symptoms manifest themselves and seek immediate medical attention.
Condom Sense
Condom Sense
Condoms have been around for centuries yet many people know very little about their history, types, and other important information. Simply using a condom isn't 100% effective in preventing STD's, HIV, and pregnancy but the proper use can be extremely effective.
Some simple stats should convince anyone that a condom should be worn at all times. For instance, when used correctly, condoms are 98% effective in the prevention of pregnancy. It's also 10,000 times more safe in the prevention of HIV. While the average fail rate for condoms is 12%, that number is mostly reflected in people who do not use them properly when having intercourse. Condom companies are extremely careful when manufacturing the product. If 4 out of every 1,000 condoms have a leak, the manufacturer's destroy the entire condom lot (usually 5,000 condoms per lot).
There are several styles, types, and manufacturer's of condoms as well. The male condom is the most popular condom used. It's manufacturered by several companies including Trojan, Durex, Lifestyles, and much more. A little known type of condom is the female condom. They're inserted into the vagina and have similar protection statistics as male condoms. While not many manufacturer's currently produce female condoms, they can be easily found on the internet. Condoms also come in many styles including warming, flavored, colored, and more. Styles can help make safe sex, fun sex.
Most people think they know how to use a condom but they actually may not know the entire story. To use a condom, follow these steps:
1. Use a new condom every time - Use a new male condom before each sex act.
2. Putting the condom on - 1. Squeeze tip of condom to remove air. 2. When penis is erect (before any sexual contact), place condom on tip and roll down all the way.
3. Taking the condom off - 1. Withdraw penis while still erect. 2. Hold on to rim of condom while you withdraw so nothing spills.
4. Lubricants - Do not use oil-based lubricants such as Vaseline petroleum jelly, mineral oil, vegetable oil or cold cream as these can break the condom.
5. Condom Storage - Store at room temperature. Do not use if the condom appears brittle.
6. Latex Allergy - Do not use a latex condom if you or your partner has any background of allergy to products containing latex.
7. Spermicidal Lubricants - Condoms lubricated with Nonoxynol-9 combine a latex condom and a spermicidal lubricant. The spermicide reduces the number of active sperm. New studies show spermicidal condoms are not effective in preventing the transmission of HIV.
8. Condom Effectiveness - No prophylactic can guarantee 100% effectiveness, latex condoms, if properly used will help reduce the risk of HIV infection and many other sexually transmitted diseases.
Condoms can be purchased in many places. You can easily find condoms at most local gas stations, drug stores, and even Wal-Mart. Purchasing condoms in person may sometimes be embarrassing which is why ordering on the internet is another great place to find condoms. There are several sites dedicated to condom retail such as Undercover Condoms. You can also find condoms at Amazon and other mass retailers on the net.
Overall, condoms are a highly effective tool in keeping you safe and should be used at all times.
Advantages of Buying Condoms Online
With increasing emphasis on the practice of safe sex and the role of condoms as cheap and convenient birth control and barrier to most sexually transmitted diseases, condom sales have enjoyed a surge in recent years.
And though this contraceptive device is available in most pharmacies, supermarkets, and convenience stores, there are still some people who experience hesitation and anxieties whenever they buy some.
Enter the trend of selling condoms through the internet. With everything else being sold online, it is but logical for something as in demand as condoms to be electronically traded.
One huge advantage of buying condoms online is the enjoyment of privacy. Apart from the retailer, only you would have absolute knowledge on the items you ordered. Some people find that they enjoy making selection on the type of condom to use when privacy is assured. With the persistence of several sexual taboos, prejudices, and stigmas, the prospect of buying condom through the internet has looked better and better as time goes by.
Electronic purchase of condoms also afford the buyer greater convenience. No more making frequent side trips to stores to purchase these prophylactics whenever supply runs out. When you have a hectic schedule and absolutely cannot find the time nor patience to dally in pharmacies or supermarket aisles, buying condoms online is indeed a good alternative. With just a few clicks of a mouse, your order is ready to go and would reach your doorstep in a day’s time.
Compared to displays found in supermarkets and pharmacies, online retailers have wider selection of condom products and brands. Because these retailers focus on this contraceptive device, you won’t get distracted with other products and merchandises. You can also take your own sweet time in browsing through the numerous options you have. And who knows, you might just find a product that not only would fit you better, but also caters to whatever preferences and fancies you might have. When you feel adventurous, you can select condoms that tout value-added features, like ribbed and studded surfaces, or products that though provide appropriate protection, hardly taste or smell like ordinary condoms. Online condom retailers also provide salient information on its products, making way for more enlightened decisions on what products to patronize.
Anybody could tell that at certain point in their lives, they have experienced anxiety when buying condoms in stores. The longer time they spent choosing a certain condom brand or variety, the greater the chances of getting embarrassed and choosing a product totally inappropriate just to get the act over and done with. Whether imaginary or otherwise, some people feel that others are judging them through the choices of prophylactic made. Some also go through the experience of purchasing an unneeded item just to avoid standing in line at the counter clutching only a box of condoms. Well, say goodbye to these concerns when you decide to buy condoms through the internet. Never again shall you go through the ordeal of buying condoms at a public place and having to silently agonize over having to deal with the clerk, the cashier, or other customers.
And did I say that condoms sold online are priced much lower than those available in stores? The greater quantities you order, the bigger savings you incur. Most also offer free shipping and discounts, a deal that is quite hard to beat by pharmacies and convenience stores.