Don't just use it, know the type of condom and how to use it

Most people think all condoms are the same. Though there are many types of condoms that you can choose according to your needs. Some are made of latex or polyurethane, some are equipped with lubricants or not, some contain spermicide, some are even available with various textures and aromas.

Selection of the type of condom can be adjusted to the needs of the wearer. Condoms need to be used properly and correctly, in order to effectively protect you and your partner from the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Various Types of Condoms You Need to Know

To get the type of condom that suits your needs, let's consider the following types of condoms on the market:

• latex condom

  The most widely used type of condom is one made of latex. The effectiveness of condoms with this ingredient in delaying pregnancy is fairly high as long as they are used correctly. Unfortunately, latex can cause allergic reactions in some people. This latex allergic reaction can cause dry, itchy, and red penile skin.

• plastic condom

  There are also condoms made of other materials, such as polyurethane or polyisoprene. Both types of condoms are also considered effective in protecting you from various sexually transmitted diseases, and unwanted pregnancies.

• Sheepskin condom

  Even though they are called sheepskin condoms, they are actually made from sheep intestines. However, condoms with this ingredient are only effective in delaying pregnancy and cannot protect you from sexually transmitted diseases because the texture of these condoms has pores, like human skin.

• Condoms with lubricant

  This condom is equipped with a thin layer of lubricating fluid. Its function is to prevent irritation and pain due to friction during sex and prevent condoms from tearing. This lubricated condom makes you feel more comfortable. Currently, almost all condoms sold in the market have been coated with lubricant.

In addition, there are also types of condoms that contain spermicide, which is a sperm-killing substance. This type of condom is considered more effective in helping delay pregnancy. But sometimes, the content of spermicide added to condoms is also not enough to kill sperm.

To be more effective, you can use a spermicide that is separate from the condom. Choose a spermicide that contains octoxynol-9, and avoid spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 because there is a possibility of irritating the genital area. If this happens, then the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases can increase.

How to use the right condom

Knowing the types of condoms on the market is still not enough. You also need to know how to treat and use condoms properly.

To prevent mistakes in using condoms, consider the following tips:

• Read the packaging label to find out the ingredients used in the condom.
• Check the expiration date, don't use an expired condom
• Store in a dry and cool place, avoid exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause condoms to leak or break.
• Check condoms before use. Do not use if there is damage, such as a hole, even if it is only the size of a pinhole.
• When using a condom, leave a little space at the tip of the penis. This is so that when the sperm comes out, it will be accommodated at the end of the condom. If you don't leave room, the condom will likely tear.
• If the condom feels broken or torn during sexual intercourse, then stop and immediately remove your penis, replace it with a new condom.
• Use condoms only for single use and not repeatedly, to maintain their level of effectiveness in delaying pregnancy and preventing sexually transmitted diseases.

Knowing the type of condom is important so that you can choose the one that suits your needs. Don't forget, always read the instructions for use on the condom packaging label before using, so that the condom can function optimally.