When it comes to physical pleasure or sexual intercourse, everyone wants it to be the best experience of their lives. This is a process of making love with someone special or simply taking care of your needs, wants, or desires. As a result, the everlasting question has been whether condoms aid in increasing pleasure. If so, then how to choose the right condom, and which condoms are best for lovemaking and making it more pleasurable?
Condoms, like our cable or internet connections, only appear when they do not operate. External condoms are generally safe and effective. However, there are a few risks linked with condoms, the most serious of which are latex allergy and a tiny percentage of condom breakages during sex (which can lead to pregnancy and STIs). Also, urinary tract infections and irritation (for both men and women) are smaller risks.
If they work well, they will fade into the background and allow you to focus on the intensity of the moment. Even if they’re working well, you should consider whether you are using the optimal materials and if you know how to pick the right condom size for the best sexual experience.
Many couples fail to prevent conception despite attending to their bodily demands. Consequently, a condom is the most effective method of prevention. Another question that comes is, which condom would be the best to choose?
When it comes to condoms, the sheer amount of brands, shapes, sizes, textures, materials, and, yes, flavors available might be daunting. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely that you will be overjoyed if you choose the wrong condom, but do not worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to choose a condom, to keep you safe and satisfied in bed.
In this Article
What is a condom?
Condoms act as a physical barrier between bodies. A condom is a thin, loose-fitting pouch or sheath that protects against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or infections (STIs) by preventing or significantly limiting body fluid exchange. Condoms prevent pregnancy as a barrier technique of birth control (contraception) by preventing semen (sperm-filled fluid) from entering the vagina and fertilizing the eggs. Condoms are classified as class II medical devices, which means they must adhere to stringent FDA criteria. Condoms are available for purchase over the counter at pharmacies, grocery stores, and general retail stores.
Why Do Condom Sizes Matter?
Condoms aren’t all the same, and neither are people. Finding the proper size condom will improve your comfort while wearing it. Furthermore, condoms work best when they fit properly. So how to choose the right condom?
Most condoms have a large enough body to fit practically any penis size. Even though most are quite elastic, purchasing a condom that is too small may cause discomfort and even suffering. Furthermore, there is a larger chance that the condom will burst.
Similarly, if a condom is excessively short, the penis head may flatten the reservoir tip at the end intended to catch the ejaculated semen. If this occurs, the sperm will flow to the condom’s sides and possibly ooze out at the base. Thus it’s crucial to know how to select condom size that is right for you.
How To Pick the Right Condom Size?
If you are like many people who have a penis, you may be self-conscious about how to select condom size. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about, though, because choosing the correct size means you will have fewer condom errors and a more amazing experience.
If you have ever measured your penis, it’s time to pull out the measuring tape again because you will need to know the exact proportions before deciding which size to purchase. Because condoms are produced to fit a variety of lengths, the appropriate width is more crucial than the right length when selecting a size. Before we tell you how to pick the right condom size, scroll down for advice on determining the proper measurements
Condoms are typically available in three sizes: snug, standard, and large. Snug and big condoms are frequently labeled plainly, but ordinary condoms rarely mention sizing at all.
How To Pick A Condom Size Chart
Many individuals are curious about how to select condom sizes or whether popular brand condoms come in all sizes. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all condom, but they can expand to accommodate a variety of sizes – to a point. Knowing your measurements and selecting a condom that is the closest size to you will help you obtain the greatest fit and avoid condom complaints like feeling too tight or slipping off.
The average penis length in the United States is 5.57 inches erect, while the average erect girth is 4.81 inches, according to studies on penile size. Most conventional condoms are intended to fit these averages, with some wiggle room.
To accommodate different body types and penis sizes condoms come in a variety of sizes.
Some condoms are tighter or shorter, while others are wider and longer.
This how to pick a condom size chart isn’t perfect, but it will give you a general concept of the penises that go in small/snug, standard, and large/XL condom sizes.
| PENIS LENGTH | PENIS GIRTH | CONDOM SIZE |
| Under 5 inches | Under 4 inches | Small or Snug |
| 5-7 inches | 4-5 inches | Standard |
| Over 7 inches. | Over 5 inches | Large/XL |
How To Choose Condom Size: Start With Your Measurements
Begin by taking some measurements to determine what size condom you require. If you do not have a flexible tape measure, a piece of rope and a ruler will suffice. you will need something to wrap around your penis to determine its circumference or girth.
When determining how to choose condom size, measure the circumference of your penis at the base and mid-shaft, as well as the length of your penis from base to tip. Both of these dimensions are critical for sizing a condom.
To take your measures, you will need to stand up straight. To determine length, place the end of the tape measure or string against your stomach at the base of the penis and measure out to the tip’s farthest point.
The measuring tape or string should be placed along the top of the penis. If you are using yarn, string, or ribbon, mark or cut the string where it reaches the end of the penis, then use a ruler to measure the length of the indicated string. Take measurements to the nearest millimeter (1/8″).
If you have a measuring app on your phone, you may use the camera to mark the spots at the base and tip of the penis and let the program compute the length.
Now you will need to determine the circumference of your penis. Wrap the flexible measuring tape or thread around your penis, mark where it joins, and measure to the nearest 1/8″ or millimeter.
Take two measurements around your penis: at the base and the widest section of the shaft.
Base circumference: Measure the base of your erect penis at the base of the shaft. Small changes in circumference can affect fit, protection, and pleasure, so be as precise as possible.
Mid-shaft circumference: Take a measurement around the widest section of your erect penis. This measurement may or may not differ; do not be concerned.
If your penis is nearly the same circumference from base to head, a straight-walled or classic-fit condom may be preferable.
If your penis grows larger, you may choose a flared/tapered fit or a bulbous condom form, which allows for greater headroom. Some folks simply enjoy greater space and movement, so this isn’t a precise science.
Which condom fits and feels the best is a personal preference as well. A condom that is too tight, on the other hand, can interfere with performance and enjoyment, while a condom that is too loose risks slipping off and dulling the sensation. Choose a fit that is comfortable for you without being overly tight or loose.
How To Choose Condom: Know The Condom Types
While knowing how to pick right condom size makes condom shopping much easier, there is still an abundance of condoms. The primary deciding factor here is condom type, which influences the feel, effectiveness, and cost of every condom. Male condoms come in a variety of styles, including:
Latex condoms
The most popular condom material is latex, which provides a strong, thin, and effective barrier against mingling bodily fluids. However, latex does not conduct heat well. It also goes without saying that anyone who is allergic to latex should avoid using these condoms.
Polyurethane Condoms
Polyurethane is a form of plastic, making it an excellent choice for those who are allergic to latex. Polyurethane condoms are typically more expensive and less snug than latex condoms, but they provide greater heat transfer and a thinner barrier.
Polyisoprene Condoms
Polyisoprene condoms, a type of natural rubber, provide a comparable sensation to latex but will not aggravate any potential allergies. Polyisoprene condoms are thicker than polyurethane but softer than latex, providing an excellent balance of durability and pleasure.
Lambskin Condoms
Lambskin condoms are made from lamb intestines and are thin, resilient, good at heat transfer, and come in very big sizes. Although lambskin condoms are composed of natural materials, they are also pricey and do not protect against STIs, making them a niche choice best suited for monogamous couples.
Lubricated Condoms
Lubrication, often known as lubrication, is a thin layer of liquid on the condom. Lubrication helps to keep the condom from breaking and lessen irritation and pain during sex. You can add lubrication to make sex more comfortable if you get an unlubricated condom. But remember to use only a sex-specific water-based product. Petroleum jelly and other oil-based lubricants can harm the condom and prevent it from working.
Spermicide-Coated Condoms
Nonoxynol-9 is a substance, which kills the sperm. Some condoms are sold with it already applied. This may reduce the risk of pregnancy, but the amount of spermicide included in a condom is unlikely to make a difference. You may use a sperm-killing supplement just to be safer. Nonoxynol-9 might put you at risk of contracting HIV and irritate your genitals.
Textured condoms
Ribbed and studded styles are available. They are intended to increase your or your partner’s pleasure. However, the feel of these condoms may differ for you and your partner. If this prevents you both from having sex, you can try textured ones to see if they feel more comfortable.
Flavored Condoms
Many flavored external condom manufacturers promote distinctive flavors and fragrances. The taste is either mixed into the lubricant or applied to the condom. Condoms are sometimes colored to match the flavor, such as yellow for bananas and red for strawberries. External condoms with flavors are commonly used during oral sex. Furthermore, several of the products are FDA-approved for durability and protection.
Glow-in-the-dark or other novelty condoms may also be available. However, be cautious: these are often not FDA-approved and may not prevent pregnancies or STDs. Make it clear on the package that the product protects against both.
Other Important Things You Should Know About How To Choose Condoms
- Condoms are most effective when used correctly.
- If available, purchase the type with a reservoir (nipple) at the tip to capture sperm. Female condoms are an additional alternative.
- Never use a male and female condom together; they may tear.
- To ensure that you are using them correctly, follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Check the package’s expiration date. Do not purchase or use expired condoms.
- Condoms can be carried with you at all times, but they should not be stored in places where they will become hot (such as in the glove compartment of a car). A condom can be damaged by heat.
- Throughout the sexual act, use a new condom for each act of vaginal, anal, and oral sex (from start to finish). Place the condom, rolled side out, on the tip of the erect penis before any genital contact.
- If the condom does not have a reservoir tip, pinch the tip enough to allow semen to accumulate. Unroll the condom all the way to the base of the erect penis while holding the tip.
- Grip the rim of the condom and slowly withdraw it after ejaculation and before the penis softens. Then, slowly peel the condom away from the penis, being careful not to leak any sperm.
- Wrap the condom in a tissue and dispose of it in a place where others will not come into contact with it.
- Stop immediately, withdraw, remove the damaged condom, and put on a new condom if you feel the condom break at any point during sexual activity.
- Ensure enough lubrication is used during vaginal and anal intercourse, which may necessitate the use of water-based lubricants. Oil-based lubricants (such as petroleum jelly, shortening, mineral oil, massage oils, body lotions, and cooking oil) should be avoided since they can weaken latex and cause it to crack.
Conclusion
If you are sexually active, the only way to avoid contracting or transmitting STIs and prevent pregnancy is to use a condom appropriately and regularly. Condoms, unfortunately, are not bulletproof. They have the potential to rip, tear, leak, or fall off. It is critical to know how to pick the right condom size. Pick a condom that fits snugly, securely, and comfortably. Begin by measuring the length and girth of your penis to determine which condom is ideal for you. The proper condom for you will provide more comfort and may prevent incidents such as the condom breaking or falling off. In the process of how to choose condom, you and your partner may need to try many before settling on the ideal condoms for you both. A condom that fits these requirements will boost enjoyment while also providing the best protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long do condoms normally last?
Depending on the material used, condoms can last anywhere from one to five years. Always double-check the expiration date on the container.
- How do condoms degrade over time?
When condoms come into contact with sharp items such as jewelry, piercings, teeth, or fingernails, they might break. They might also rip if not properly lubricated.
- What should I do if a condom ruptures while lovemaking?
Women who are anxious about becoming pregnant can take over-the-counter emergency contraception, sometimes known as Plan B® or the morning-after pill. To prevent pregnancy, your doctor may prescribe a stronger tablet or place a copper intrauterine device (IUD). Emergency contraception is up to 89% effective at preventing pregnancy when given within 72 hours of intercourse. You should also discuss STD and HIV testing with your clinician.
