Male and female condoms

Male and female condoms

A female condom (left) and a male condom (right)

There are two main types of condom. What is generally called a condom is the 'male' condom, a sheath or covering which fits over a man's penis, and which is closed at one end.

There is also now a female condom, or vaginal sheath, which is used by a woman and fits inside the vagina. There are two types available: The FC / FC2 female condom and the the VA w.o.w. Condom Feminine.

This page discusses the male condom, but you can find out more about female condoms and how to use them in our female condoms page.

What are condoms made of?

Condoms are usually made of latex or polyurethane. If possible you should use a latex condom, as they are slightly more reliable and in most countries they are most readily available. Latex condoms can only be used with water based lubricants, not oil based lubricants such as Vaseline or cold cream as they break down the latex.

Polyurethane condoms are made from a type of plastic. They are suitable for the small number of people who are allergic to latex. Polyurethane condoms are thinner than latex condoms, and so can increase sensitivity. However, they are more expensive than latex condoms and slightly less flexible so more lubrication may be needed. Both oil and water based lubricants can be used with them.

It's not clear whether latex or polyurethane condoms are stronger. However, with both types the likelihood of breakages is very small if used correctly.

Condoms, lubrication and spermicides

A range of lubricants

The lubrication on condoms varies. Some condoms are not lubricated at all, some are lubricated with a silicone substance, and some condoms have a water-based lubricant. The lubrication on condoms aims to make the condom easier to put on and more comfortable to use. It can also help prevent condom breakage.

Some condoms and lubricants contain spermicide. Spermicides are chemical products that inactivate or kill sperm to prevent pregnancy. Condoms containing the spermicide nonoxynol-9 were previously thought to help prevent the transmission of HIV and other STDs. However, nonoxynol-9 sometimes causes adverse effects, which can facilitate the transmission of HIV. Therefore you should only use condoms and lubricants containing nonoxynol-9 if you are HIV negative and know your partner is too. However, using a condom (even if it contains nonoxynol-9) is much safer than having unprotected sex.

What shapes are there and which should I choose? What about flavoured condoms?

Condoms come in a variety of shapes. Most have a reservoir tip although some have a plain tip. Condoms may be regular shaped (with straight sides), form fit (indented below the head of the penis), or they may be flared (wider over the head of the penis). Ribbed condoms are textured with ribs or bumps, which can increase sensation for both partners.

It's up to you which shape you choose. All of the differences in shape are designed to suit different personal preferences and enhance pleasure. It is important to communicate with your partner to be sure that you are using condoms that satisfy both of you.

Condoms also come in a variety of colours. Some are flavoured to make oral sex more enjoyable. They are also safe to use for penetrative sex as long as they have been tested and approved.

What about the condom size?

Condoms come in a variety of shapes and sizes

Condoms are made in different lengths and widths. Different manufacturers produce varying sizes.

There is no standard length for condoms, though those made from natural rubber will always stretch if necessary to fit the length of the man's erect penis.

The width of a condom can vary. Some condoms have a slightly smaller width to give a 'closer' fit, whereas others will be slightly larger.

The brand names will be different in each country, so you will need to do your own investigation of different names.

Where can I get condoms?

Family planning and sexual health clinics provide condoms free of charge. Condoms are available to buy from supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol/gas stations. Vending machines selling condoms are found in toilets at many locations. You can also order then online from different manufacturers and distributors.

There are no age limits for buying condoms. Buying a condom no matter how old you are shows that you are taking responsibility for your actions.

How can I check a condom is safe to use?

In the UK, condoms that have been properly tested and approved carry the British Standard Kite Mark or the EEC Standard Mark (CE). In the USA, condoms should be FDA approved, and elsewhere in the world, they should be ISO approved. Some countries have their own approval marks. To find out more see our page about condom effectiveness.

Condoms have an expiration (Exp) or manufacture (MFG) date on the box or individual packet - you should not use the condom if this date has passed. It's important to check this when you use a condom. You should also make sure the packet and the condom appear to be in good condition.

Condoms can deteriorate if not stored properly as they are affected by both heat and light. So it's best not to use a condom that has been stored in your back pocket, your wallet, or the glove compartment of your car. If a condom feels sticky or very dry you shouldn't use it as the packaging has probably been damaged.