STD Prevention: Behavior Change

Safer Sex - The Condom 2

Types of Condoms
A first rough distinction between condoms can be drawn according to the material of which they are made: Latex, plastic (polyurethane), and sheep gut. The last of these is not recommended for STD prevention, and the plastic condom is used mainly by those who are allergic to latex. Since they are in the minority, the latex condom is by far the most common.
Today, there are many types of latex condoms on the market: Pre-lubricated or non-lubricated, large-sized and smaller-sized, thinner and thicker, non-flavored and flavored (for oral intercourse). They also come in different shapes and colors. In recent years, there have been increasing efforts to make condoms more attractive by turning them into “fun” items and emphasizing the possible playful aspects of their use.
The choice between the many types of condom is a personal matter. Some like thinner condoms, others prefer them thicker. Some enjoy certain colors or flavors (banana, vanilla, etc.), others consider all of that silly.
It may be useful, therefore, to try on different condoms in order to find the type with which one is most comfortable.