condoms

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-09-2005
condoms
4
Mon, 02-13-2006 - 4:35pm
Are certain brands of condoms more safe than others, and if so, which is the best to use for the first time? I remembering hearing that certain types might tear, but I can't remember where I heard it so I don't know if its true.
Also, I heard the condom can get lost instead the woman during intercourse. What can be done to prevent this? I will be on the pill as well, I just really don't want to get pregnant. That's the only thing preventing me and my boyfriend from having sex- we're scared I'll get pregnant! We know we're ready in every other way, that's the only thing...

                             
iVillage Member
Registered: 04-23-2004
In reply to: nat_c_123
Mon, 02-13-2006 - 7:00pm

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.


It is important to check the expiration date and make sure they are still good and also make sure they are stored properly.


bounxh0a-1.gif picture by dillbyrd

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-28-2003
In reply to: nat_c_123
Mon, 02-13-2006 - 7:13pm

And, don't ever (ever!) make the mistake of using an oil-based lubricant with a latex condom (the most common type). If you are not certain about your lube, do *not* use it. Don't understand why? Put a condom on your guy, get some baby oil or other oil-based lube, and proceed to give him a handjob. Takes about 60 seconds for the condom to totally self-destruct.

For lots of info on condoms, brands, types, etc., check out condoms.com or condomania.com (one "m" or two, I don't recall...).

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-15-2004
In reply to: nat_c_123
Mon, 02-13-2006 - 9:22pm
I know that Trojan is supposed to be the most trusted brand, but we have had so many Trojans rip on us that it is not even funny. Luckily I am on the pill and don't have to worry so much- We've found that the kinds that work best for us are the 'cheaper' brands. We perfer Lifestyles. They seem to work the best for us, and they have never ripped. I hope this helps you!!
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-26-2005
In reply to: nat_c_123
Tue, 02-14-2006 - 12:07am

All major brands of condoms should be fine if they're not outdated, and if they've been stored properly. As for losing a condom inside you, if they're the proper size, they shouldn't come off his penis. If they do, they don't get "lost" anymore than a tampon would be lost. It's in there, and easily removed.

However, if you're on the pill and you're taking them correctly, you really don't need condoms. Correctly means always on time, and never skipping or forgetting one. Taken properly, the pill stops you from ovulating, and if you don't ovulate, there's no ovum to fertilize and it's impossible to get pregnant. As long as you know he's STD free, you don't have to use condoms when you're on the pill, or any other hormonal birth control.