First, you don't need a doctor's prescription to buy
condoms, and if you are a minor, you don't need a note from your parents (In
1977 the US Supreme Court ruled that no state may bar minors from purchasing
condoms without parental consent) Condoms are considered a medical device.
Where do we start - Latex, Polyurethane,
Natural Lamb Skin, Thin, Lubricated, Non-Lubricated, Flavored, Colors, Ribbed,
Tight Fitting, Loose Fitting... Need we say more.
Latex
The most popular type of condom with the biggest selection is the Latex Condom.
Latex condoms are made from natural rubber latex which is a processed plant
product derived almost exclusively from the trees found in Africa and Southeast
Asia.
The latex from which most condoms are made is extremely elastic and can stretch
to fit any size. In fact, during manufacturing and product testing condoms are
stretched and inflated to several times their natural size and shape. They are
actually put under much more stress during testing than they would usually
receive during sexual intercourse.
Besides being an effective form of birth control by blocking sperm from entering
the vagina, the molecular make up of the latex condom is such that it does not
allow the bacteria and viruses which carry STDs and AIDs to pass through, making
them an effective means of disease prevention. Latex condoms could and should
only be used with water based lubricants.
Polyurethane
Though the material polyurethane has been around for a long time it has only
recently been used to make condoms. While it has been found to be stronger,
thinner and with no odor or taste only a few manufacturers have developed and
marketed them. They are recommended for persons who are allergic to latex. there
are currently 3 brands available the
SUPRA,
AVANTI and the
FEMALE CONDOM.
Lamb Skins
Made from the intestine of animals the lamb skin condom was one of the first
forms of birth control. They have a very natural feeling. Although they are an
effective form of birth control the various bacteria and viruses which carry
STDs and AIDs can pass through the porous walls of the natural membrane
causing them to be ineffective in the prevention of sexually transmitted
disease. There is only one remaining brand -
Trojan Natural Lamb
Natural Lamb Skins should only be used for the prevention
of pregnancy.
ALL ABOUT LUBRICANTS
Water based personal lubricants are moistening substances which are used to make
sexual activity more comfortable and pleasurable. Water based lubrication is
important for the proper use of a condom. Most brands of condoms are lightly
lubricated, but many people prefer to use additional lubricant. Inadequate
lubrication while using a condom may result in irritation and discomfort during
sexual activity. In addition, the friction created while using a condom with
insufficient lubrication may result in condom breakage.
NEVER USE OIL-BASED LUBRICANTS like hand lotion,
body lotion, baby oil, vegetable oil, massage oil, mineral oil or petroleum
jelly when using condoms or other latex products. Oil based lubricants will
quickly break down the latex causing the condom to tear.
As with condoms there are many different kinds of Lubricants. Some of the
substances added to Lubricants are spermicides such as Nonoxynol-9 (sperm
killing substances see warning below),
flavors and chemicals which alter skin sensation.
TIP ON USING LUBRICANTS AND CONDOMS
Rub some water-based personal lubricant on the outside of the condom to reduce
friction and lessen the chance of breakage. Many men say that putting a small
dab of lubricant inside the tip of the condom before it is put on increases
pleasurable feeling during sex.
The Centers for Disease Control, on the use of the
spermicide nonoxynol-9 (N- 9), States quite clearly that nonoxynol-9
should not be recommended as a preventive measure against HIV
A WORD ABOUT NONOXYNOL-9
Nonoxynol-9 Is a mild chemical detergent that kills sperm
and has been found to also kill some STD causing organisms. How ever some men
and woman have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to nonoxynol-9 that may
irritate the delicate tissues of the vagina or the male urethra. If irritation
occurs, you should discontinue use.