Condom Sense

Condoms have been around for centuries yet many people know very little about their history, types, and other important information. Simply using a condom isn't 100% effective in preventing STD's, HIV, and pregnancy but the proper use can be extremely effective.

Some simple stats should convince anyone that a condom should be worn at all times. For instance, when used correctly, condoms are 98% effective in the prevention of pregnancy. It's also 10,000 times more safe in the prevention of HIV. While the average fail rate for condoms is 12%, that number is mostly reflected in people who do not use them properly when having intercourse. Condom companies are extremely careful when manufacturing the product. If 4 out of every 1,000 condoms have a leak, the manufacturer's destroy the entire condom lot (usually 5,000 condoms per lot).

There are several styles, types, and manufacturer's of condoms as well. The male condom is the most popular condom used. It's manufacturered by several companies including Trojan, Durex, Lifestyles, and much more. A little known type of condom is the female condom. They're inserted into the vagina and have similar protection statistics as male condoms. While not many manufacturer's currently produce female condoms, they can be easily found on the internet. Condoms also come in many styles including warming, flavored, colored, and more. Styles can help make safe sex, fun sex.

Most people think they know how to use a condom but they actually may not know the entire story. To use a condom, follow these steps:
1. Use a new condom every time - Use a new male condom before each sex act.
2. Putting the condom on - 1. Squeeze tip of condom to remove air. 2. When penis is erect (before any sexual contact), place condom on tip and roll down all the way.
3. Taking the condom off - 1. Withdraw penis while still erect. 2. Hold on to rim of condom while you withdraw so nothing spills.
4. Lubricants - Do not use oil-based lubricants such as Vaseline petroleum jelly, mineral oil, vegetable oil or cold cream as these can break the condom.
5. Condom Storage - Store at room temperature. Do not use if the condom appears brittle.
6. Latex Allergy - Do not use a latex condom if you or your partner has any background of allergy to products containing latex.
7. Spermicidal Lubricants - Condoms lubricated with Nonoxynol-9 combine a latex condom and a spermicidal lubricant. The spermicide reduces the number of active sperm. New studies show spermicidal condoms are not effective in preventing the transmission of HIV.
8. Condom Effectiveness - No prophylactic can guarantee 100% effectiveness, latex condoms, if properly used will help reduce the risk of HIV infection and many other sexually transmitted diseases.

Condoms can be purchased in many places. You can easily find condoms at most local gas stations, drug stores, and even Wal-Mart. Purchasing condoms in person may sometimes be embarrassing which is why ordering on the internet is another great place to find condoms. There are several sites dedicated to condom retail such as Undercover Condoms. You can also find condoms at Amazon and other mass retailers on the net.

Overall, condoms are a highly effective tool in keeping you safe and should be used at all times.

Undercover Condoms is an online retailer and information provider for condoms, personal lubricants, and massage oil for over 5 years. UndercoverCondoms.com provides fast, discreat shipping with top notch customer support.