Think you know everything there is to know about condoms? Think again! From history to weird facts and everything in between, we’ve got the ultimate guide to using condoms like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie to safe sex, this article has everything you need to know to protect yourself and your partner. So strap in (literally) and get ready for a wild ride of sexual education!
Ahoy there, gentlemen! We’re about to dive into the world of condoms! If you’re not using one, well, it’s time to start. And if you’re already a pro, you might still learn a thing or two.
We’ll cover everything you need to know about condoms, from how to pick the right size to tips for using them correctly. So let’s get started!
Why Condoms Matter
Let’s start with the basics. Why are condoms so important? Well, condoms are one of the most effective ways to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. They’re also a great way to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
Using a condom is an easy and effective way to protect yourself and your partner. Plus, they come in all kinds of fun colours, textures, and flavours, so you can make things more exciting in the bedroom. So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty details.
The History of Condoms
Condoms have been around for centuries, and their use has evolved over time. Here are a few key moments in the history of condoms:
Ancient Egypt: Condoms made from animal bladders were used in ancient Egypt.
16th century: Condoms made from linen or sheep intestines were used in Europe.
19th century: Rubber condoms were invented, making them more affordable and widely available.
20th century: Condoms were promoted as a way to prevent the spread of STIs, including HIV.
Today, condoms are widely used and come in a variety of sizes, colours, and materials.
Weird and Funny Condom Facts
Condoms can be a serious topic, but they can also be a bit silly. Here are a few weird and funny condom facts:
Condoms can be used as water balloons: While not recommended, condoms can be filled with water and used as water balloons.
There’s a Guinness World Record for the largest condom: The largest condom on record was made in Japan and measured over 72 feet long.
Condoms have been used in art: Condoms have been used in a variety of artistic projects, including sculptures and paintings.
Condoms can be used for other things: In addition to safe sex, condoms can also be used for other purposes, such as keeping a cell phone dry.
Condoms and Sexual Pleasure
Using a condom is important for protecting yourself and your partner, but it can also have an impact on sexual pleasure. Here are a few ways to enhance pleasure while using a condom:
Try different textures: Condoms come in a variety of textures, including ribbed and studded. Experiment with different textures to find what feels best.
Use a good lubricant: Lubrication can enhance pleasure and reduce discomfort. Experiment with different types of lubricants to find what works best for you.
Practice safe and consensual sex: The most important thing for sexual pleasure is having safe and consensual sex. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page and comfortable with what you’re doing.
Choosing the Right Size
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a condom is the size. It’s important to get a condom that fits well because if it’s too tight or too loose, it could break or slip off during sex.
Most condoms come in standard sizes, but there are also larger and smaller options available. To find the right size for you, measure the circumference of your penis at the base (the thickest part) and compare it to the condom size chart.
If your circumference is between 4.7-5.1 inches, you’ll need a small condom. If it’s between 5.1-5.7 inches, a medium condom should be a good fit. And if it’s over 5.7 inches, you’ll want to go for a larger size.
But remember, the size of your penis can change depending on your level of arousal, so it’s always a good idea to have a few different sizes on hand to make sure you’re covered in any situation.
How to Use a Condom
Now that you’ve got the right size, it’s time to learn how to use a condom correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Check the expiration date: Condoms have a shelf life, so make sure you check the expiration date before using one.
Open the wrapper carefully: Use your fingers to tear the wrapper open, being careful not to damage the condom inside.
Make sure it’s the right way round: Before putting the condom on, make sure it’s the right way round. The tip should be pointing towards the head of your penis.
Squeeze the tip: Pinch the tip of the condom to leave a little bit of space for semen.
Unroll the condom: While holding the tip, unroll the condom all the way down to the base of your penis.
Check for any tears or damage: After sex, make sure to check the condom for any tears or damage. If there are any, dispose of it and use a new one.
Lubrication
Lubrication is important when using a condom because it can help reduce the risk of the condom breaking. Condoms are usually lubricated, but you can also use additional lubrication if needed.
Water-based lubricants are the best option because they’re safe to use with condoms. Oil-based lubricants, such as Vaseline or baby oil, can weaken the condom and cause it to break.
Tips for Using Condoms
Here are some additional tips to help you use condoms correctly:
Use a new condom every time: Condoms should be used for every sexual encounter, even if you and your partner have been tested for STIs
Store condoms properly: Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid keeping them in your wallet or car, as heat and friction can weaken the material.
Don’t reuse condoms: Once a condom has been used, it should be disposed of and a new one should be used for each sexual encounter.
Check for damage: Before using a condom, check it for any tears, holes, or damage. If you notice any, do not use it and discard it properly.
Take it slow: When putting on a condom, take your time and make sure it’s properly in place. Rushing can increase the risk of the condom breaking or slipping off.
Practice safe sex: While condoms are effective in preventing STIs and unwanted pregnancy, they are not 100% foolproof. It’s always a good idea to use other forms of birth control, such as the pill or an IUD, and to get regular STI tests.
Communicate with your partner: Discuss condom use with your partner before having sex. It’s important to make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to using protection.
Where to Get Condoms
Condoms are widely available and can be purchased at drug stores, supermarkets, and online. Here are some other places to get condoms:
Free clinics: Many free clinics offer free condoms and other forms of birth control.
Planned Parenthood: Planned Parenthood offers a variety of services, including STI testing and birth control.
College health centres: If you’re a student, your college or university health centre may offer free or discounted condoms.
Non-profit organizations: Some non-profit organizations, such as the American Sexual Health Association, offer free condoms and information on safe sex.
Different Types of Condoms
While most condoms are made from latex, there are a variety of materials available. Some people may have an allergy to latex, so it’s important to explore other options. Here are some of the different types of condoms available:
Latex: Latex condoms are the most common type of condom. They’re affordable, effective, and widely available. However, some people may have an allergy to latex.
Polyurethane: Polyurethane condoms are a good alternative for people with latex allergies. They’re also thinner and less likely to break.
Polyisoprene: Polyisoprene condoms are made from a synthetic latex material. They’re a good option for people with latex allergies and offer a similar feel to latex condoms.
Natural/organic: Natural or organic condoms are made from materials such as lambskin or polyethylene. While they are an option for people with latex allergies, they do not provide protection against all STIs and are not recommended for those at risk for HIV.
How to Talk About Condoms with Your Partner
Talking about condoms with your partner can be uncomfortable, but it’s an important part of having safe and responsible sex. Here are some tips for bringing up the topic:
Start the conversation early: Don’t wait until you’re in the bedroom to bring up the topic of condoms. Start the conversation early, preferably before you even start dating.
Be confident: Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. Confidence can be attractive, and it shows that you’re responsible and care about your partner’s health.
Be prepared: Have condoms on hand and be ready to use them. This shows that you’re responsible and take your sexual health seriously.
Be open and honest: If you have any concerns or questions about condom use, be open and honest with your partner. It’s important to be on the same page when it comes to safe sex.
Condoms and Consent
Obtaining and respecting consent is vital for any sexual encounter, and it’s particularly important when it comes to condom use. Here’s what men need to know about consent and condom use:
Always obtain explicit consent: Consent should be explicit, enthusiastic, and ongoing. This means making sure your partner is on board with condom use before engaging in any sexual activity, and checking in with them throughout the encounter to make sure they are still comfortable with the situation.
Never remove a condom without permission: Removing a condom without permission is a violation of consent and is considered sexual assault. This is sometimes referred to as “stealthing,” and it is both illegal and unethical. Always ask for and obtain permission before removing a condom.
Refusing to wear a condom is not acceptable: Refusing to wear a condom is a violation of your partner’s consent and can put them at risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy. If your partner asks you to wear a condom, it’s important to respect their wishes and use a condom for the entire encounter.
Communicate openly and honestly: Communication is key in any sexual encounter, and it’s particularly important when it comes to condom use. Be honest about your intentions and expectations, and listen to your partner’s concerns and desires.
Remember that obtaining and respecting consent is not just the right thing to do, it’s also required by law. If you have any questions or concerns about consent or condom use, don’t hesitate to talk to a healthcare professional or seek out additional resources on the subject.
What to Do If a Condom Breaks
While rare, condoms can break during sex. If this happens, it’s important to take immediate action.
Stop sex: As soon as you realize the condom has broken, stop having sex. This can help prevent further transmission of STIs or unwanted pregnancy.
Get tested: If the condom breaks during sex, it’s essential to get tested for STIs. Most STIs can take several weeks to show up in a test, so it’s a good idea to get tested several weeks after the incident.
Consider emergency contraception: If your partner is not using any other form of birth control, or if you’re unsure if your partner is using birth control, consider emergency contraception. This can help prevent pregnancy if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
Condom Myths Debunked
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about condoms. Here are a few common ones and the truth behind them:
Condoms reduce pleasure: While some people may feel that condoms reduce sensation, they do not necessarily reduce pleasure. In fact, using a condom can help prolong sexual activity and increase pleasure for both partners.
Condoms are only for vaginal sex: Condoms can be used during any type of sexual activity, including anal and oral sex. However, flavoured condoms should not be used for vaginal sex as they can cause infections.
Condoms are one-size-fits-all: Condoms come in a variety of sizes and materials, and it’s important to find the right one for you. Using a condom that is too small or too large can increase the risk of it breaking or slipping off.
Condoms and Oral Sex
Condoms can also be used during oral sex to reduce the risk of STIs, including HIV. Here are some tips for using condoms during oral sex:
Use flavoured condoms: Flavored condoms are specifically designed for oral sex and come in a variety of flavours.
Cut open the condom: If you don’t have a flavoured condom, you can cut open a regular condom and use it as a dental dam. This can help reduce the risk of STIs.
Be safe: Always use a new condom for each sexual encounter, including oral sex. This can help reduce the risk of infection.
Condoms and Anal Sex
Condoms are also important for reducing the risk of STIs during anal sex. Here are some tips for using condoms during anal sex:
Use plenty of lubrication: Anal sex requires a lot of lubrication to reduce the risk of the condom breaking.
Use a thicker condom: Thicker condoms can help reduce the risk of the condom breaking during anal sex.
Be safe: Always use a new condom for each sexual encounter, including anal sex. This can help reduce the risk of infection.
How to Dispose of Condoms
After use, condoms should be disposed of properly. Here are some tips for disposing of condoms:
Wrap it up: After use, wrap the condom in a tissue or piece of paper and dispose of it in the trash. Do not flush it down the toilet.
Don’t reuse: Condoms should never be reused. Always use a new condom for each sexual encounter.
Be discreet: If you’re in a public place, such as a hotel room, be discreet when disposing of condoms. You don’t want to leave them out in the open where they could be seen.
Condoms and Pregnancy
Condoms are a great way to prevent unwanted pregnancy, but they’re not 100% effective. Here are some tips for reducing the risk of pregnancy:
Use a backup method: Consider using a backup method of birth control, such as the pill or an IUD, in addition to condoms.
Be consistent: Use a condom for every sexual encounter. This can help reduce the risk of pregnancy.
Be prepared: Have condoms on hand and be ready to use them. This shows that you’re responsible and take your sexual health seriously.
STIs that Condoms Do Not Prevent
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a very common sexually transmitted infection that can cause genital warts and some types of cancer. While condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, they do not provide complete protection, as HPV can be spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Herpes: Herpes is a viral infection that can cause painful blisters or sores on the mouth or genitals. While condoms can reduce the risk of herpes transmission, they do not provide complete protection, as the virus can be spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Syphilis: Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can cause sores, rashes, and other symptoms. While condoms can reduce the risk of syphilis transmission, they do not provide complete protection, as sores can occur outside of the area covered by a condom.
Pubic lice (crabs): Pubic lice are tiny insects that can infest pubic hair and cause itching and irritation. While condoms can reduce the risk of pubic lice transmission, they do not provide complete protection, as the lice can live on other parts of the body.
Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. While condoms can reduce the risk of trichomoniasis transmission, they do not provide complete protection, as the parasite can be present on other parts of the body.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, condoms are an essential part of safe and responsible sex. They’re easy to use, effective in preventing STIs and unwanted pregnancies and come in all kinds of fun colours and flavours.
Remember to choose the right size, use lubrication, and use a new condom for each sexual encounter. And if a condom breaks, take immediate action and consider getting tested for STIs or using emergency contraception.
So, gentlemen, stay safe and have fun!