Did you know that the type of condom you choose can affect the sex you are having? Nowadays, there are a variety of condoms to choose from- lucky us! Every man should feel comfortable and as though they’ve found a ‘perfect fit’ when they slip on a condom. If you are experiencing any discomfort, tightness, or looseness, you’re probably not wearing the right one.

Scroll down to find out how to find your best match and heighten your experience in the bedroom!

But first, the basics…

1. The most effective method for preventing unwanted pregnancies and STIs is condoms.

2. Please do not make the mistake of thinking a condom is reusable.

3. If the condom is expired or damaged, dispose of it. It is now ineffective.

4. If there is no penis involved in the sexual activity, it does not mean that you can skip the use of a condom. If sex toys are being shared, it’s best practice to slip a condom on the toy.

5. You do not want to find yourself in a situation where you need to excuse yourself to go find a condom, so always have a few readily available to you.

Properly slipping it on

Making sure it’s properly on so it does its job right.

Step 1: Open the wrapper (carefully not to tear the condom) and remove it.

Step 2: Place the condom on the tip of the erect penis (if uncircumcised pull back the foreskin first) and pinch the air out of the tip.

Step 3: Roll the condom all the way down the penis.

Remember, practice makes perfect.

Selecting your perfect match

A quick trip to your local pharmacy and you might find yourself very overwhelmed by a wide range of selection. These days, we are lucky enough to have a plethora of options when it comes to selecting a condom. So how do you choose the best one for you?

1. Get the size right

Nothing kills the mood faster than discovering the condom slipped off or is lost inside your partner. If the condom is too loose then this is what you risk. A snug fit is what you should be looking for to make sure that it stays in place. But you also don’t want it so snug that you are feeling any tightness or discomfort. A condom should feel like it is securely in place and comfortable to wear. Not too big or too small. This is why you should be considering the girth of your penis when selecting, not only the length! If you are unsure about your size, most condom boxes will have a chart on the side to help you figure out girth and length.

2. Condom thickness

The thickness of the condom plays a large role in your partner’s pleasure as well as your own. The thicker the condom, the less the sensation, helping you last longer in bed. On the other hand, extra-thin condoms will allow you to feel more sensations and be closer to your partner during sex. The thickness of the condom only affects the feelings of sensation. It does not compromise or risk the effectiveness of the protection. So, a thin condom will not pose a risk of tearing any more than a thicker one.

Consider the feeling that you are going for since this will also heighten the sexual experience. These days, you can pick patterns that will provide extra stimulation for your partner, such as studded, dotted and ribbed. You can choose between a natural rubber latex or a latex-free material and even the flavour of the condom (which comes in almost every flavour you can think of). Consider what type of lubricant you want, as most condoms are pre-lubricated.

Something to think about the next time you find yourself in the health aisle. Good luck finding your best match!