Definition and properties
A condom is a covering of latex or other material that is slipped over a man’s erect penis as a contraceptive and as protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms are designed for different needs, uses, and anatomies. They differ in the following characteristics, among others:
- Size: length, width
- Materials: usually made of latex, latex-free condoms made of polyethylene, polyurethane, polyisoprene.
- Wall thickness of the material: normal, extra thin for more feeling, extra firm for anal intercourse.
- Color: colored or transparent
- Taste (aroma), smell
- Lubricant: water and glycerin-based, silicone oil.
- Spermicides to inactivate any escaping sperm, e.g. nonoxinol-9.
- Local anesthetics for long-lasting sexual intercourse.
- Powder
- Reservoir for the reception of the sperm
- Unwinding tape for the rapid unwinding
- Ribs, nubs for mechanical stimulation
- Seal of quality: OK seal of approval
Condoms should be kept cool, dry and protected from sunlight (5 to 25 ° C). They should not be exposed directly to the sun or ice. Condoms have a shelf life of up to five years. They should be used only until the expiration date printed on them.
Indications for use
- As a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy.
- To prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. The condom is the only contraceptive that reliably protects against many STDs when used correctly.
Application
- Central to the application is the appropriate size of the condom. It can be determined, for example, at http://www.mysize.ch based on the size of the penis. Condoms should always be tried before the first concrete application.
- Put on the condom as soon as possible, because even before ejaculation sperm can escape.
- Consistently avoid damaging the condom when ripping open, for example, with jewelry, sharp fingernails or scissors.
- Open the package only shortly before use.
- The condom is slipped over the erect member. The foreskin thereby pull back. It must be ensured that the condom is stripped to the right side.
- There must be no semen on the outside of the condom.
- Hold the condom with your index finger and thumb on the reservoir. Lightly squeeze so that no air remains in the reservoir.
- Pull back the foreskin and unroll the condom over the entire length. Only the reservoir can hang down slightly.
- When pulling off the condom, make sure that no sperm gets into the partner’s body.
- Do not throw used condoms in the toilet, but in the waste bag.
- A condom must not be used twice. Use a new condom for each use.
Precautions
Do not use condoms in case of hypersensitivity to any ingredient. Oil or fat-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly, body lotion, sunflower oil, butter and margarine should not be used, as they cause damage to the condom. Some spermicides can also attack the rubber. Full precautions can be found in the Instructions for Use.
Adverse effects
An allergic reaction may occur if you are allergic to latex or other components of the condom. In case of latex allergy, latex-free condoms made of other materials are available. Condoms can tear or slip off, especially if they are too tight or too wide or are damaged by intimate jewelry, for example. In this case, it is recommended that the woman take the morning-after pill if she is not using an additional contraceptive.
