Condoms are something many of us depend on but are often embarrassed to actually go buy. And when it comes to exploring more than just the safety they offer, many of us do not want to be the guy standing there reading the box.
While the basics of condoms have remained fairly constant for a while, the features have certainly changed a lot in the last five years. If it has been a while since you have had to worry about this kind of performance, use this guide as a starting point for making a more informed purchase.
What Men Need To Know About Condoms
Condoms are an essential form of contraception for men, as they provide protection against both unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are easy to use, affordable, and widely available. When used correctly, condoms can effectively prevent STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), condoms are 98% effective when used correctly during vaginal sex, and 85% effective when used correctly during anal sex. This means that if 100 people use condoms consistently and correctly every time they have sex, only two will become pregnant within a year.
In addition to providing protection from unwanted pregnancies and STIs, using condoms can also make sex more enjoyable. Condoms help reduce friction during intercourse, making it more comfortable for both partners. They also come in a variety of textures, flavors, sizes, and colors to suit different preferences.
Despite the many benefits of using condoms, only about one-third of American men report using them consistently during sexual activity. This is concerning given that the rates of STIs among Americans have been steadily increasing over the past few years. In 2018 alone there were nearly 2 million cases reported in the U.S., with men accounting for nearly 70% of those cases. Unprotected sexual contact is one of the most common ways these infections are spread; therefore it is important that more men start using condoms regularly to reduce their risk of contracting an STI or passing one on to their partner(s).
Using condoms consistently is also important for reducing unintended pregnancy rates among men. According to the Guttmacher Institute, approximately 40% of all pregnancies in the United States are unintended; this number could be significantly reduced if more men started using condoms regularly and correctly.
When it comes to selecting a condom brand that offers maximum protection against both pregnancy and STIs, there are several options available on the market today. Popular brands like Trojan offer high-quality latex condoms that have been tested for strength and reliability; these types of condoms can provide up to 99% effectiveness when used properly each time you have sex. It’s also important to note that some brands may offer additional features such as lubrication or ribbing which can enhance pleasure during intercourse while still providing protection from unwanted pregnancy or infection.
Overall, using condoms is an important part of maintaining good sexual health for men. Not only do they provide protection from unwanted pregnancy and STIs but they can also make sex more enjoyable for both partners involved. It’s important that we continue educating young people about proper condom use so that we can reduce rates of unintended pregnancy and STI transmission among our population as a whole.
How Long Do Condoms Last?
First, if you have a stash from back in the day, pull it out and look at them to make sure they are still good. Yes, condoms do expire, and you run the risk of them being ineffective if they are past the expiration date.
Generally speaking, latex condoms are good for between four and five years from the date they are manufactured. There are some conditions that cause them to go bad more quickly, but we’ll talk about that later.
When you purchase condoms, be sure you check the expiration date, especially if you find a sale. The last thing you want is to find a “great buy” only to find out they are expired when things are heating up.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy Condoms?
There is actually no age restriction for purchasing condoms. Some store cashiers may ask for an ID when purchasing them, but they cannot refuse to sell them to you based on your age.
If you are carded, you can simply reply that this purchase has no age requirement. You can also go through the self-checkout in many retailers, or go to a different store to make the purchase.
Can You Buy Condoms Online?
There are many places you can purchase condoms online. However, there are a few considerations before placing your order.
First, be sure you are not purchasing novelty items, which may not offer the protection you need. These can be glow in the dark, flavored, or even printed. Be sure whatever you purchase is FDA approved to ensure they do the job properly.
Next, you want to be sure they are not past their expiration date. If the price seems too good to be true, trust your gut.
When purchasing condoms online, buy from a respected retailer with reviews. If you purchase from a marketplace like Amazon, be sure to review the reputation of the seller before making a purchase.
How Much Do Condoms Cost?
Condoms will range in cost depending on the brand and style you purchase. For most basic packs, which include three condoms, you can expect to spend between $2 and $6. You can purchase larger packs which will usually drop your per-unit cost, as well as buy more sophisticated condoms (like ribbed, extra thin, or special lubricants) which may increase the cost.
How Often Do Condoms Break?
Condom breaks are relatively rare when they are used correctly, which estimates being about one in every 250 condoms. The key is that you put it on correctly, use the right lube, store it properly, and use them before its expiration date.
How To Store Condoms?
Condoms need to be kept in a cool dry place in order for them to continue to be good. If you leave them in your car or carry them in your wallet in your back pocket, you are more likely to have one break. The heat makes the latex breakdown quickly more likely to break.
How Can You Make Condoms Feel Better?
One chief complaint about condoms from both men and women is how they feel, and the loss of the intimate feeling when used. There are a couple of ways to deal with this. First, consider using thinner condoms to reduce the latex feel.
Next, use a lube that feels good for both you and your partner. Some people enjoy a warming lube. Others prefer the “his” and “hers” combos, which provides a little different experience for both of you. Experiment with your partner to find what you both like. The key is to talk with your partner to find what will work for both of you.
How To Dispose Of Condoms?
First, be sure to remove the condom correctly by pinching the tip and rolling down the condom. Once you have it removed, tie it off to keep everything contained, and then wrap it in toilet paper and toss it in the trash. Do not flush a condom, as it can easily clog your pipes.
What Size Condom Do You Need?
Believe it or not, condoms are not all one-size-fits-all. Rather, there are generally three different sizes, and it is important to make sure you use the right one. If your condom is too big, you run the risk of it slipping off. If it is too small, you increase the risk of breakage. This is why you need to take the time to find the right size.
You need to measure the length and circumference of your erect love muscle to get the right size. For length go from the base all the way to the tip. For width, measure the widest part of your Johnson.
Most latex condoms are the “standard” size. These tend to have a length of 7.25 to 7.8 inches and a circumference of 1.75 to 2 inches.
Some men want to jump right to the larger condoms and to their own peril. The larger size condoms accommodate a width greater than 2 inches and a length between 7.25 and 8.1 inches.
There are also snug fit condoms available if you need something a bit smaller. These have a width of under 1.75 inches and between 7.0 and 7.8 inches.
Aside from the right fit, all the other features are highly personal to you and your partner. You may enjoy thins, but your partner may enjoy ribbed. Talk with your partner, and find what works for both of you. Bedroom discontentment comes more from a lack of communication rather than skill.
