The 7 Types of Condoms and Their Characteristics
Condoms are one of the most widely used contraceptive methods worldwide. They work by placing a sheath made of latex or other synthetic materials on the penis that will prevent the passage of semen during sexual intercourse. Today there are different types of condoms, which are adapted to the needs of each couple.
One of the main advantages of condoms is that they prevent the spread of different sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV. In fact, studies suggest that the use of condoms reduces the risk of infection by 10 to 20 times when exposed to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
On the other hand, protection against unwanted pregnancy is very similar to that obtained with hormonal methods. In this way, the use of condoms during sexual intercourse will prevent conception in almost 100% of cases.
The 7 most used types of condoms
The number of condoms available on the market can be overwhelming for many people. Condoms can have extra lubrication, flavors, colors, and even retardants. All these features are included in order to enhance people’s sex lives.
The best known condom classification is the one based on size. However, there are different types of condoms with specific characteristics that allow them to be differentiated from each other. People should know all the qualities of contraceptive methods to choose the one that best suits their situation.
1. Textured condoms
Textured condoms maximize sensations on the vaginal walls and anus during penetration. These condoms include very small grooves or sockets etched into the latex walls, which will increase stimulation.
The different types of textured condoms are thinner and easier to use than standard condoms. However, they continue to provide great protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Some textured condoms include grooves on the inside of the condom, so the stimulation of the penis will also increase during intercourse. These condoms are ideal for those couples who want to get a new experience and get out of the routine a bit.
2. Condoms with additional effects
Some people think that using condoms is boring, however some types of condoms can put an interesting spin on sex. Today there are condoms that include different additional effects, which can create more pleasure during sex.
One of the types of condoms with the best-known effect is the one that creates a hot or cold effect. These condoms include substances that will stimulate multiple nerves in the genital region.
In addition, you can also get special condoms that include specific substances that allow the couple to reach orgasm at the same time. In this way, they seek to advance orgasm in women and delay in men. These condoms can be very useful for people with anorgasmia.
3. Retardant condoms
Delay condoms include specific substances that decrease the sensitivity of the penis, thus seeking to prolong the duration of sexual intercourse. These condoms include small doses of local anesthetics, usually benzocaine, which delay male ejaculation.
Men who suffer from premature ejaculation can take advantage of the effects of delay condoms to increase the length of intercourse. Premature ejaculation is a very common sexual disorder that affects millions of men around the world.
Unfortunately, the presence of benzocaine in condoms can cause multiple side effects. Specialists recommend washing the genital area with plenty of soap and water after using this type of condom.
4. Flavored condoms
Another of the most widely used types of condoms today are those that include flavors. Flavored condoms remove the latex flavor and replace it with more palatable ones like fruit or chocolate. In this way, they are good to practice oral sex safely.
Flavored condoms are very safe for vaginal penetration. However, they are a little thinner, so there is a risk of rupture during anal penetration.
5. Thin condoms
Thin condoms look similar to standard condoms, however their latex wall is up to 20% thinner. The decrease in thickness allows more intense and pleasant sexual encounters, increasing the sensation of skin-to-skin.
These types of condoms undergo the same safety tests as thick condoms, so they are completely safe. They have the same safety index in the prevention of pregnancies and in the transmission of diseases such as syphilis. However, some sexual practices such as poorly lubricated anal sex increase the likelihood of the condom breaking.
6. Latex-free condoms
Latex is one of the main materials condoms are made from. However, many people are allergic to this material, so they can’t come into contact with it. Fortunately, there are many condoms that don’t include latex, and which allow you to practice safe sex.
Non-latex condoms use various synthetic compounds such as polyisoprene. The use of these materials prevents the appearance of hypersensitivity reactions in people with an allergy to latex.
These condoms are just as safe and effective as traditional condoms. However, studies show that latex-free condoms are more likely to break during sex, although the odds are slim.
7. Other types of condoms
Ultimately, there are other types of condoms that have the ability to put an interesting spin on sex despite not being as popular. Other condoms available include the following:
- Female condoms: These have the same principle as male condoms. They are latex covers that are inserted into the vaginal cavity and function as a barrier method.
- Lubricated condoms: These seek to reduce the use of additional lubricating substances. They facilitate penetration in the sex act and can increase pleasure.
- XL condoms: Specially designed for men with large penises.
- Condoms with spermicide: These are condoms with any of the characteristics described above, but they also include substances that kill sperm. The purpose is to further decrease the likelihood of an unwanted pregnancy.
- Glow-in-the-dark condoms: These include materials capable of absorbing light rays, so they will glow when the lights are turned off. They’re one of the newest inventions and can add an interesting and fun touch to sex.
Choose the condom that suits you
All types of condoms available today have unique characteristics. Condoms are such versatile contraceptive methods that they can adapt to any situation, so you should take a look at their characteristics and choose the best option for you.
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