10 Different Types of Condoms - How do you choose the best condom

Types of condoms – Condoms are among the best forms of birth control methods to keep oneself safe during sexual activity.[1] They are used by individuals to avoid getting pregnant and to protect against STIs, or sexually transmitted illnesses.[2] However, when it comes to selecting the best condom, the choices might be difficult. There are several types of condoms available with different characteristics. The majority of condoms are external and fit over the penis, however, there are also female or internal condoms that fit inside the vagina. Condoms that are specially designed to enhance the pleasure of intercourse. Let us take a deeper look at various types of condoms.

What are the Different Types of Condoms?

The different types of condoms include:

Internal or Female Condom
Latex condoms
Non-latex condoms
Lambskin condoms
Spermicidal condoms
Ribbed, studded, or textured condoms
Glow-in-the-dark condoms
Thin or Ultra-thin condoms
Premature ejaculation condoms
Lubricated condoms

Internal or female condom

This is a narrow tube with flexible rings on both ends. One end of the condom is placed in your vagina or anus while the other must be outside or exterior of the body. There is just one size, shape, and material available for internal or female condoms. Because female condoms are difficult to use or insert, Their effectiveness is only 79% which is low in comparison to other types of condoms. To prevent pregnancy while using a female condom, you need another type of birth control as well, such as:[3]

More control over one’s sexual health is one of the main advantages of internal condoms for vaginal users. Furthermore, you may put them in for up to eight hours before having sex, so you don’t need a condom break during enjoy time.[3] People should not use them with external condoms because it raises the chance of breaking both.[4] Continue reading ….

Latex Condoms

The latex condom is the most excellent general solution for the majority of individuals unless you are allergic to latex. These condoms are composed of natural rubber & are the hardest variety available. They are also the most effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases. It’s crucial to remember that latex condoms must only be used with water-based lubricants instead of Oil-based lubricants, Vaseline, and many lotions, as it can break latex condoms. Latex condoms are suitable for vaginal, oral, as well as anal intercourse. Latex condoms are a primary type of condom. They might be ribbed, flavored, colored, or any other type. They have been a classic and reliable product since the 1920s.[5]

Non-Latex Condoms

If you and your partner are allergic to latex, there are still lots of choices i.e. non-latex condoms. Non-latex condoms manufactured from the following material:[3]

Polyurethane
Polyisoprene
Nitrile

All three are synthetic materials that protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).[3] Synthetic condoms are also compatible with oil- and water-based lubricants.[6][7]

Lambskin Condoms

Most individuals don’t prefer lambskin condoms. These condoms contain microscopic holes that allow viruses and bacteria to flow through, therefore they cannot protect you against STDs such as HIV & gonorrhea.[3] They only stop the passage of sperm, hence they can only prevent undesired pregnancy. According to some people, These types of condoms feel more natural throughout sex than latex or non-latex condoms.[8]

Spermicidal Condoms

These are exterior condoms coated in substances that harm or destroy sperm. Spermicides often include nonoxynol-9, a detergent. Spermicidal condoms also belong to a wider category that may also include other varieties such as ribbed spermicidal condoms. It can also help to avoid pregnancy and STIs but Nonoxynol-9 might cause uncomfortable due to irritation as some people may be allergic to it.[9]

Ribbed, studded, or textured

Textured condoms are intended to promote sexual excitement. Textured condoms have ribs or studs that improve friction and sensation making sex more enjoyable. These condoms provide the same protection from STDs and pregnancy. These textures can serve a variety of functions, including increased enjoyment for you and your partner. They can also improve the efficacy of the condoms.

Glow-in-the-dark Condoms

Glow-in-the-dark condoms may be both enjoyable and useful. The FDA approved most brands of these types of condoms for use in preventing pregnancy and STIs. To make condoms shine, expose them to light for approximately 30 seconds before applying them. They are typically non-toxic and comprise three layers:

The first two layers (inner & outer) are made of ordinary latex.
The third layer which is the middle layer of the inner and outer contains a harmless dye that helps the condom to glow in the dark.

Thin or Ultra-thin Condoms

As the name suggests, thin or ultra-thin condoms are precisely that – a condom made of a little bit less material. As a result, many individuals see them as the most popular barrier method of contraception since they do not completely decrease feelings.

Are they more likely to break since the material is thinner? Not necessarily. Heat, friction, and the use of oil-based lubricants are common causes of condom failure.[10]

Premature ejaculation condoms

A condom made to prolong your time in bed could be helpful if you’re one of the 20 to 30 percent of men who suffer from premature ejaculation (PE).[11] Premature ejaculation condoms or climax-control condoms contain benzocaine lubricant inside that helps to minimize the sensitivity from inside to help postpone ejaculation. However, they will not minimize your partner’s sensitivity. For increased enjoyment, the condoms include studded from outside surfaces and a thin layer of lubricant. Premature ejaculation condoms are a better way of managing erection and engaging in safe sexual behavior.

Lubricated condoms

These latex condoms come with lubricant already included. That means you won’t need to carry your own. Lubricated condoms help minimize friction due to vaginal dryness. This can help to reduce irritation & tear or breakage of the condom. There is nothing wrong with using extra lubricant with a pre-lubricated condom for increased pleasure and protection.[9]

How do you choose the best condom?

Here are a few crucial aspects to remember while selecting condoms:

If you want to use condoms to avoid getting pregnant or contracting STIs, confirm that the product you choose has FDA approval for these uses.[12]
Since every types of condoms have an expiration date, the FDA mandates that they be labeled with one.[13]
If you or your spouse has allergies, learn about the materials used to make the condoms. The materials are generally specified on the product packaging. For example, latex, a popular substance used in condoms, might cause allergies in certain people.
If you have highly sensitive skin around the genital, choose only those types of condoms that are branded or labeled for extra-sensitive skin.

A Note from kamarth

Condoms can be manufactured from a variety of materials, including latex, nitrile, and lambskin. Try using a new types of condoms or another method of birth control if a certain types of condoms irritates you. Condoms are a simple and efficient way to protect oneself during sex from pregnancy as well as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), but only if you use the appropriate one. While each variety of condom has advantages and disadvantages, the most important consideration is what is best for both you and your partner. Make sure to verify the materials and expiration dates of every type of condom before using it.

Some Additional Doubts

Question: Which type of condom is best?
Answer: The latex condom is the greatest overall solution for most individuals.

Question: Which condom is 100% safe?
Answer: None of types of condoms is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy or STDs.

Question: Where can you buy condoms?
Answer: You can purchase any types of condoms from Supermarkets, Medical or even Online.

Question: Do we need ID proof to buy a condom?
Answer: No, you don’t need an ID card to buy any types of condoms.

Question: Can we wear 2 or 3 condoms?
Answer: It is actually never advisable to use more than one condom at once. Two condoms really offer less protection than one. They can rub against each other, weakening the material and increasing its likelihood of breaking.

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10 Different Types of Condoms – How do you choose the best condom

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