According to a recent study by researchers at Emory and Indiana Universities, college men are demonstrating a slow learning curve in one important extra-curricular activity: proper condom use. The study, published in the September issue of Sexually Transmitted Diseases, describes mistakes that range from wearing condoms inside-out, to leaving condoms in a drawer back at the dorm. Though the study involved only a small sampling of heterosexual men, researchers believe that the findings point to a need for better condom education and instruction. Introducing...Condoms 101.
Types of condoms
You can choose condoms that are rippled, studded, dry, powdered, lubricated, tinted, transparent, treated with spermicide, or various combinations of any these types. In addition, condoms come in different sizes, which may or may not be marked on the package. The best way to find a favorite is to try them out. Some brands are longer, wider, or thicker than others, so you may need to try a few before you find one that is comfortable for you. Condoms usually come with three or twelve per package. They can cost as little as a quarter each and as much as $2.50. The lubricated condoms are more expensive, as are specialty condoms made from animal tissue or polyurethane. Polyurethane or plastic condoms should only be used if you are allergic to latex, as breakage rates may be higher in non-latex condoms. Make sure to read the labels on the more unusual condoms to determine whether they protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Also, pay attention to the expiration dates because condoms do lose their effectiveness with age. Condoms are available in drugstores, drug sections of larger stores, and family planning centers. They are also available on the Internet.
