External Condoms

Ahoy Sailors today we are discussing “Male Condoms”, I prefer to call them “External Condoms” because not all Males have penisis and not all condoms are used on Males or even penisis. A condom is a barrier intended to cover and protect a shaft and collect ejaculate.

When used correctly and consistently latex condoms prevent pregnancy about 98 percent of the time. The typical effectiveness rate where mistakes are made or condoms break is about 82 percent.

There are lots of different types of condoms on the market and it may take time to find what you like. You may also find you need different condoms for different activities. There are different brands of condoms made in different shapes and of different materials.

Materials:

• Latex

• Most Common Material

• Has an Odor

• Some people are allergic

• Polyurethane (compared to latex)

• Thinner and stronger

• Stretchier

• Transfer heat more

• Polyisoprene

• Ideal for people allergic to latex and/or polyurethane

• Odorless

• What about Lamb Skin?

• Made from the intestinal membrane of a lamb (which is very expensive)

• Not effective against preventing STIs

Shapes:

• There are many different shapes of condoms

• Some are intended for Uncircumcised or Circumscribed Penises

• Some are made for certain sex acts

• The texture of a condom can be different

• Avoid “Novelty” Condoms

• Glow in the Dark

• French Ticklers

• Some condoms have sugar-based lubricant and are not intended for vaginal intercourse (“Oral Sex Only”)

Brands:

• Trust the FDA NOT Branding!

• Success and failure rates

• Consumer Reports

• Think of it like shoes: Try to find a brand that fits you the way you like and works for your lifestyle

• There is no “RIGHT” or “BEST” condom

• Experiment with Options

Often Lubricant can can help when applying a condom and during intercourse with a condom. Condom Compatible Lubes are Water-Based & Silicone-Based. When using a latex condom avoid Massage Oils and Oil-Based Lubricants. Even natural oils like Coconut and Olive Oil will break down latex Condoms. All oils leave micro-perforations in latex, which will make the condom less effective. Also avoid any lubes with Spermicide (Nonoxynol-9, or N-9)? Public health officials now know that it can actually increase a person's HIV risk and effect latex strength. Spermicide also irritates the cells that line the vagina and the rectum, making them more vulnerable to attack by Viruses and bacteria.

Although it can be tempting to store condoms in your wallet or purse, these places are NOT the safest condom store options. Condoms need to be stored in a container out of direct sunlight, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. There are many fun and fancy options (but when in doubt a DVD case or Sunglasses case, it works great to store 2-5 Condoms). Just make sure your condom storage works for your lifestyle .Do you need it to be Mobile? Discreet? Accessible? Just find what works best for you.

How to Put on a Condom:

• How to Open A Condom

1. You need to use a new condom every time you have sexual intercourse. Never use the same condom twice.

2. Don't “Double Bag” condoms! Use one condom per shaft!

3. Check the Packaging: Make sure the packet and condom appear to be in good condition, and check that the expiration date has not passed.

4. Only put on a condom once there is a partial or full erection.

5. Open the condom packet at one corner being careful not to tear the condom with your fingernails, your teeth, or by being too rough.

• How to Put on a Condom

1. Place the rolled condom over the tip of the hard penis, whilst GENTLY pinching the tip of the condom enough to leave a half inch space for semen to collect. (Note: If the penis is not circumcised, pull back the foreskin before rolling on the condom.)

2. Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis, and smooth out any air bubbles. (Air bubbles can cause a condom to break.)

3. If you want to use some extra lubrication, put it on the outside of the condom.

• How to Remove a Condom

1. Stop activities immediately after ejaculation. Before withdrawing, grasp the bottom of the condom with your hand. Withdraw while holding the penis.

2. To remove the condom from the penis, gently pull the tip of the condom while still holding the base. Remove the condom from the penis by carefully rolling it back from the base.

3. Be sure to face away from your partner. You don’t want to fling any of the contents because: 1. That is Rude and 2. Semen, even if it on the body externally, can still infect or impregnate if it touches a vulva

4. A handy trick it to tie the condom in a knot before placing it in the trash

Sometimes it can feel awkward to discuss contraception with a partner. However, if someone if ready to take on the responsibility of sex they must consider what level of risk they are taking on and how to reduce risk. It is important to discuss risk-reduction options BEFORE a sexual act. Remember: Practice makes perfect! Think about different way to approach the subject? Consider what you are going to do if your partner is hesitant to use condoms? How can you assert yourself?

One way to do this is to get condoms with the person(s) you are planning on using them with. You can often get free condoms from your school, local health provider, or Planned Parenthood. Or you can get affordable condoms at Drug Stores (like CVS or Walgreen’s), Grocery Stores, sex shops, or even Target. Just look in the “Family Planning” section or aisle.

Condoms are an affordable and easy way to reduce risk and avoid fluid exchange. It is important to be prepared, so practice using and discussing risk reduction tools before you participate in sexual activities. Most condom companies offer single condoms as well as packs packs. So check out your local sex shop, get a variety of single condom types, and do some homework.

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