Condoms

🛡️ Enjoy it safely and without worry

Condoms are the classic for contraception and protection in one. The right fit is what matters, because a well-fitting condom sits securely and feels more comfortable. Alongside standard models there are many variants that add variety and enrich the shared experience.

The most important types

• Various widths and lengths for the right size
• Extra thin models for more sensation
• Studded, ribbed or flavoured variants
• Latex-free condoms for sensitive skin

📏 Nominal width is the number that counts

It is not the length that decides the fit but the nominal width – the width of the condom lying flat, in millimetres. Measure the circumference of the erect penis at its thickest point and halve it; the result is roughly your nominal width. The standard is 52 to 54 millimetres, and the common range runs from about 47 to 60. Chosen too wide means the condom can slip off. Chosen too narrow means it pinches, constricts and is more likely to tear. Length, by contrast, is uncritical – any excess simply does not unroll.

🧭 Latex-free is not always the same thing

With a latex allergy, two alternatives come into question. Polyisoprene feels almost like latex, soft and stretchy – but like latex it tolerates neither oil nor silicone oil. Polyurethane is thinner, conducts warmth better and is unaffected by oil, but it is less stretchy and usually more expensive. Both protect reliably. One point regardless of material: condoms made from natural material such as lambskin protect against pregnancy but not against sexually transmitted infections.

When buying, go by the nominal width to find the right fit. Open the packet carefully so the condom is not damaged. Only combine condoms with a water-based lubricant, because products containing oil can attack the material. Store them cool and dry and always check the expiry date.

⚠️ The most common mistakes in use

• Opening it with your teeth: the most common cause of unnoticed holes. Always tear along the serrated edge and push the condom aside first.
• Air in the reservoir: squeeze the tip before unrolling, otherwise the condom bursts from the inside.
• Put on too late: the condom belongs on from the start, not shortly before the climax.
• Two on top of each other: they rub against one another and tear more easily rather than protecting twice over.
• The wrong lubricant: oil, petroleum jelly and body lotion make latex porous within minutes.

For afterwards, you will find suitable products in intimate care. Further preparations and aids can be found under preparations and aids. Everything about correct use is covered in the condom guide.

🚨 Storage and shelf life

Condoms like it cool, dry and dark. The glove compartment, the back pocket and the windowsill are the three worst places – heat, constant friction and light wear the material down long before the printed date is reached. Before every use, check the expiry date and whether the packet still has a noticeable air cushion: if it is flat, it was leaking and belongs in the bin. The same goes for discoloured, sticky or brittle material. And if a condom shares a drawer with toys, it is better off in its own tin so nothing rubs against it.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Which size is the right one?

What counts is the nominal width, not the length. Measure the circumference at the thickest point and halve it – the standard is 52 to 54 millimetres.

Which lubricant goes with condoms?

Water-based. Oil, petroleum jelly and body lotion make latex porous within minutes. With polyurethane condoms, oil is uncritical.

Do two condoms on top of each other protect better?

No, quite the opposite. They rub against one another and tear more easily. A properly fitting condom is the safer choice.

What can I do about a latex allergy?

Reach for polyisoprene or polyurethane. Both protect reliably – polyurethane additionally tolerates lubricants containing oil.

How do I tell a condom is no longer good?

An expired date, a flat packet with no air cushion, discoloured, sticky or brittle material – in all these cases it goes in the bin.

How is it delivered?

In neutral packaging that gives no clue as to the contents, and the same applies to the debit on your bank statement.