Condoms -- Types of condoms

Now with that little lecture out of the way there are lots of things to know about condoms and which kind of condom you use is going to depend on what kind of sexual activity you are engaging in, penis size and last but not least - personal preference. Most people don't realize that condoms are classified as medical devices. Their production and marketing are regulated by the Food & Drug Administration. Every single condom is tested before it is sold. Condoms used to be made of natural skin (including lambskin) or of rubber. That's why they were called "rubbers". Most condoms today are latex or polyurethane.

Lambskin condoms can prevent pregnancy, however, they have tiny holes (pores) that are large enough for HIV to get through. Lambskin condoms do not prevent the spread of HIV. Latex is the most common material for condoms. Viruses can not penetrate throught the latex but latex has two drawbacks: oils make it fall apart, and some people are allergic to latex.There generally are three sizes available and size differences are subtle.

• Non - Lubricated - Old style that have been around forever - these are best used for oral sex.
• Plain - Lubed - These are standard-shaped lubricated condoms.
• Thin & Sensitive - These are designed for people who feel that the standard condoms do no provide enough feeling.
• Spermicidal - These are designed to add another level of protection against pregnancy. Nonoxynol-9 is a chemical that kills sperm (a spermicide). It can help prevent pregnancy when it is used in the vagina along with condoms or other birth control methods. Nonoxynol-9 should not be used in the mouth or rectum. Because nonoxynol-9 kills HIV in the test tube, it was considered as a way to prevent HIV infection during sex. Unfortunately, many people are allergic to it. Their sex organs (penis, vagina, and rectum) can get irritated and develop small sores that actually make it easier for HIV infection to spread. Nonoxynol-9 is not recommended as a way to prevent HIV infection.
• Extra Strength - These are the heavy duty industrial variety.
• Large - As the name implies these are for the well endowed.
• Extra Roomy - Designed to fit a bit looser that some people find increases the sensation and with a reservoir tip.
• Flavored - Perfect for oral sex otherwise, the flavors would go to waste.
• Textured - These are the fun ones designed to add some additional stimulation.
• Polyurethane - Designed for people who are allergic to latex. A latex allergic reaction can be fatal. The symptoms can show up as a simple red rash or something more severe. If you have ever had a reaction to wearing a band-aid then your probably have a latex allergy and should consider using only polyurethane condoms.
• Dental Dams - Specially designed as a barrier for use while performing cunnilingus (oral/vaginal sex) and rimming (oral/anal sex) or kissing (someone who has been rimming). When properly used they may help reduce the risk of catching or spreading many sexually transmitted diseases. However, they cannot entirely eliminate the risk.