Condoms: how to choose the right one?

The condom: definition and mechanism

A condom is a barrier device designed to cover the penis (male condom) or the inside of the vagina (female condom) during sexual intercourse. It serves two simultaneous functions that no other contraceptive combines:

• Contraception: by collecting semen, it prevents sperm from reaching the egg
• STI protection: by creating a physical barrier, it reduces the transmission of sexually transmitted infections — HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HPV

With perfect use, the pregnancy rate with a latex male condom is approximately 2% per year. With typical use — accounting for common usage errors — this rate rises to 15%. The breakage rate is approximately 2%, and the slippage rate is also approximately 2%. These figures show that condom effectiveness depends above all on how well it is used.

The materials: latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene

Latex

Latex is the most common material — stretchy, affordable, and offering effective protection against STIs and pregnancy. It is compatible with water- and silicone-based lubricants. Incompatible with oil-based lubricants — oils degrade latex and significantly increase the risk of breakage.

Approximately 1 to 6% of the population has a latex allergy. Symptoms include itching, redness, and irritation after use. If an allergy is suspected, consult a doctor and choose a non-latex alternative.

Polyurethane

A non-latex alternative, thinner than latex — better heat transfer creates a more pleasant skin-to-skin sensation. Compatible with all types of lubricants, including oils. Less stretchable than latex — slightly more rigid and with a higher breakage rate. Suitable for people allergic to latex.

Polyisoprene

A synthetic alternative to latex, more flexible than polyurethane — offering a sensation close to latex without the allergens. Compatible with water- and silicone-based lubricants. Incompatible with oil-based lubricants, like latex. The preferred option for people allergic to latex who want a sensation closer to traditional latex.

Natural membranes (lamb intestine)

Very thin, they provide a highly natural sensation. They protect against pregnancy but do not filter viruses — so they are ineffective against STIs such as HIV, herpes, or HPV. Intended for monogamous couples with no risk of STIs.

Condom types by shape and texture

Shapes

• Classic: uniformly smooth tube—the universal standard
• Anatomical: wider around the glans for greater comfort and a better fit for the shape of the penis
• Ultra-thin: provide a more intense skin-to-skin sensation—careful application is required

Textures

• Textured (ribbed, dotted): raised textures designed to increase sensations for the partner
• Delay: coated on the inside with a mild anesthetic (benzocaine) to delay ejaculation—beware of possible transfer of the anesthetic to the partner
• Flavored: for oral sex—do not use for vaginal penetration (flavorings may irritate the mucous membranes)
• Glow-in-the-dark: for games in the dark. See our selection of fluorescent condoms

Internal condom

A nitrile or polyurethane sheath inserted into the vagina or anus before intercourse. It has two rings—an internal ring that keeps it in place at the back of the vagina, and an external ring that covers the labia. Its advantage: it can be put on in advance, is compatible with all lubricants, and gives the person wearing it control over protection. Pregnancy rates are 5% with perfect use and 21% with typical use.

Size: an often-overlooked criterion

Condom size is as much a safety criterion as a comfort criterion. A condom that is too small constricts and increases the risk of breakage. A condom that is too large slips and allows fluids to escape. Available lengths range from approximately 16 to 22 cm, and nominal diameters from 47 mm to 69 mm.

How to measure:

• Diameter: measure the circumference of the erect penis halfway along and divide by π (3.14) to obtain the diameter. The condom's nominal diameter should be slightly smaller—it stretches during use.
• Length: measure the length of the erect penis. The condom should cover the entire penis—the excess length rolls up at the base.

Trying different sizes and brands is normal—body shapes vary, as do sensation preferences.

How to use a condom correctly

Before

• Check the expiration date—an expired condom is weakened
• Check the packaging is intact—a damaged package may indicate that the condom has been damaged
• Open carefully—not with scissors, teeth, or fingernails
• Choose a lubricant compatible with the material

During application

• Place on an erect penis before any genital contact—pre-ejaculate may contain sperm and infectious agents
• Pinch the reservoir at the tip to expel air—air in the reservoir increases the risk of breakage
• Unroll to the base of the penis without forcing it

After

• Remove after ejaculation while holding the base to prevent leakage, before the penis loses its erection
• Dispose of in a trash bin—do not flush or reuse
• Never use two condoms simultaneously—the friction between them increases the risk of breakage

Comparison of condom types

Recommendations by profile

Latex allergy

Choose polyurethane (compatible with all lubricants) or polyisoprene (more flexible, incompatible with oils). Consult an allergist to confirm the diagnosis—some irritation is caused by latex additives rather than latex itself.

Anal sex

Use a reinforced or extra-strength condom with plenty of water- or silicone-based lubricant. Friction during anal sex is greater than during vaginal sex. Change the condom before switching to vaginal sex. Browse our selection of condoms.

Reduced sensitivity

Try ultrathin or anatomically shaped condoms. Textured condoms (ribbed, studded) can enhance sensations for the partner. A condom should not mean a loss of sensation—try different models.

Oral sex

Use a flavored condom or a dental dam. Browse our selection of condoms designed for oral sex.

Bulk purchase

Browse our selection of condoms in boxes of 4 to 24 and condoms in boxes of 30 to 288.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Put the condom on during intercourse rather than at the beginning: pre-ejaculatory fluids may contain sperm and infectious agents — the condom must be put on before any genital contact.
• Use oil-based lubricant with a latex or polyisoprene condom: oils degrade these materials and significantly increase the risk of breakage.
• Do not pinch the reservoir when putting it on: trapped air in the reservoir creates pressure that increases the risk of breakage during ejaculation.
• Use two condoms simultaneously: friction between the two condoms increases the risk of both breaking — a single properly used condom is more effective.
• Store in a wallet: heat, friction, and pressure damage the latex and protective packaging. Store in a cool, dry place away from light.
• Use an expired condom: latex deteriorates over time — an expired condom is weakened and more likely to break.
• Do not change condoms between anal and vaginal sex: rectal bacteria can cause a severe vaginal infection — always change condoms.

Adopt1Toy condom collections

• Condoms in packs of 3
• Condoms in packs of 4 to 24
• Condoms in packs of 30 to 288
• Glow-in-the-dark condoms
• Special condoms for oral sex

In brief: how to choose the right condom

• Latex: universal and affordable — incompatible with oils; allergy possible in 1–6%
• Polyurethane: latex allergy, compatible with all lubricants
• Polyisoprene: latex allergy, latex-like sensation — incompatible with oils
• Natural membrane: does not protect against STIs
• Choose the right size — a condom that is too small or too large reduces effectiveness
• Put it on before any genital contact, pinch the reservoir, remove it while holding the base
• Never use oil-based lubricant with latex or polyisoprene
• Changing condoms between anal and vaginal sex