With so many factors in chosing the right condom, Condom Australia has put together some useful facts to help you decide why and which condoms to use.

When looking for the "right" condom the main thing to do is experiment!!! Try out lots of different kinds using low risk activities such as masturbation, and rubbing between the thighs or breasts. Be sure to break some so you know how much stress they can take and what it feels like when one is torn. Latex, Natural or Plastic Condoms?

Although some users prefer condoms made from the appendix of sheep, latex and plastic condoms provide better protection. The animal fiber condoms have walls of unequal thickness and sometimes leak. Its much better to use good latex condoms! Penis condoms made of plastic are still being developed and hold much promise; for plastic conducts heat better than latex and can be made with a wide variety of texture and elasticity. This promises greatly increased pleasure. The Reality (female or internal) condom is on the market and a great favorite of many people. It can be sued in the vagina or in the anus.

Wet or Dry?

Lubricated condoms do not break as easily as unlubricated ones. They also give a moist natural sexual feeling to the skin that the dry powdered ones do not. This creates greater sensation for the wearer.

Condoms are lubricated with gels or silicone-based products. Gels coat prophylactics unevenly inside the package, while silicone products lubricate all parts of the condom equally. The silicone coating is less gooey when the package is opened and the thorough wetness means they are less likely to break from grabbing on dry spots during use.

Some condoms are lubricated with nonoxynol-9, a substance which kills AIDS virus in test tube studies. These are advertised as having a spermicidal lubricant. Important considerations in choosing to sue such condoms are:

They may provide a minimum of local protection against HIV in case the condom breaks, leaks or spills; however, Nonoxynol-9 lubricated condoms have only been tested for vaginal intercourse and tests were not very rigorous. Accordingly, some using them for anal intercourse may wish to put the condom on and then wipe off the outside so as to have added protection on the inside of the condom without using it on anal tissue; and Some people find nonoxynol-9 mildly irritating. Nonoxynol-9 products should be tried out first, suing low risk activities before taking a chance on becoming chapped and creating a possible route for infection. Problems with irritation can usually be solved by simply changing spermicidal brands. For that matter, the amount of nonoxynol-9 lubricant on these condoms is so minimal that irritation is generally minimal too. Should They Fit Like a Glove?

With condoms, exact size isnt everything! Latex hugs and stretches to fit many sizes. Condoms which fit snugly slightly constrict the superficial veins of the penis making erections harder and orgasms more intense. Sex therapists often suggest this approach to men who are having trouble maintaining an erection during sex. Condoms with more room at the top allow the end of the condom to move and thus create more sensation. Length is not critical so long as the condom goes all the way to the base of the penis and people are careful during intercourse not to penetrate beyond where the condom ends. Shop around with fun as well as safety in mind.

Some people have tremendous fear that condoms will come off during sex. Further, because of the variety in penis shapes and sizes a few men do have a serious problem finding a condom brand which will stay on well. Occasionally, the condom will be gripped by the vaginal or rectal; muscles and the penis will move in and out of the condom. This can feel good but runs the risk of losing ;the condom. When the condom begins to slip, use your hand to "get a grip."

Is Thicker Stronger?

Some condoms are thicker than others but modern production techniques have led to condoms of reduced thickness without sacrificing essential strength required by federal standards.

More important than thickness for strength is the age of the condom and the way it is treated before and during use. Condoms have a shelf life of 5 years under optimal conditions but begin to deteriorate slowly after 2-1/2 years. Buy from a distributor who has a good turnover. Condoms also age quickly form heat, strong light and rough treatment. Dont leave them in the sun or keep them in care glove compartments. And dont keep them in billfolds for long periods. Packages made of foil or opaque plastic protect condoms much better than ones that have "see-through" covers.

What About Different Shapes?

Condoms with receptacle tips to catch the ejaculate are recommended over rounded ends, but both are fine.

Condoms which have a mushroom top provide more sensation to the head of the penis by allowing it freedom of movement. For larger glans, these are also more comfortable.

Ribbed condoms have little nubbies on the outside which provide added sensation to the condom wearers partner. Some like this, others find it irritating. Try switching from ribbed to unribbed if your partner has had enough extra stimulation.

Colors, Tastes and Smells

People occasionally object at first to the taste or smell of latex, but after a few experiences with condoms and enjoyable sex most people find the taste and smell of latex an erotic turn on. Latex itself actually has very little taste. It is the additives that make condom brands distinct. Some silicone lubricated condoms actually have less taste than many unlubricated condoms.

Be careful about condoms which are scented as the perfume can cause allergies. There is considerable variety in the taste and smell of condom lubricants so pick what you like the best.

Reasons to use condoms

1. Condoms are the only contraceptive that also helps prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HIV when used properly and consistently.
2. Condoms are one of the most reliable methods of birth control when use properly and consistently.
3. Condoms have none of the medical side-effects of some other birth control methods may have.
4. Condoms are available in various shapes, colours, flavours, textures and sizes- to increase the fun of making love with condoms.
5. Condoms are widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets and convenience stores. You dont need a prescription or have to visit a doctor.
6. Condoms make sex less messy.
7. Condoms are user friendly. With a little practice, they can also add confidence to the enjoyment of sex.
8. Condoms are only needed when you are having sex unlike some other contraceptives which require you to take/ or have them all of the time.

Condoms Australia will hit the spot for your condom needs. .