You visit internet dating sites like Datepad for one simple reason, right? To get laid!
Allright, allright... I'm sure that's not true for most of you. But it is true that an important and integral part of dating and relationships is sex. And for most of us, good sex is an essential part of the whole process-- without it, things tend to, well, fizzle out.
But safe sex is important, too. And unless you're with a long-term partner who has been fully tested for STDs (and you have, too!), the only way to have safe sex is with... you guessed it. A condom. Most of us have a good idea of what a condom does and how to use it. But do you know everything you should about the mighty latex warrior?
1. They don't prevent it all
Unfortunately, the only way to have truly "safe sex" with a new partner is not to have it at all. While condoms are very effective at preventing most STDs, they don't always work to prevent the spread of STDs like genital herpes or genital warts, because these STDs can affect areas of the genitals that aren't covered by condoms. So full disclosure is a must.
2. Use is almost as important
If you want to have the safest sex possible, it's imperative that you use a condom 100% of the time. But you also need to use it correctly. While condoms are 98-99% effective at preventing the spread of STDs (such as HIV), if it's used or applied incorrectly that number can drop down into the 80s or lower. Why? Because it's all too easy for a condom to break or leak from the base if it's not used with care.
3. 3% get pregnant with perfect use
If you use a condom for contraception every time you have sex with your partner --and you use it perfectly-- it's protects against pregnancy 97% of the time. This means three condom-using women out of every 100 get pregnant each year while using them. Unfortunately, though, incorrect use of condoms is pretty rampant, and without perfect use pregnancy prevention falls to 86%.
4. If it breaks, it's your fault
If you're depending on that ultra-thin little piece of plastic to protect your health, it's natural to worry that it might break. Because we all know that breakages happen. But they happen less than you might think, and are generally the fault of the user. Of the under 2% breakage rate, most are caused by using incorrect lubricants (such as oil-based lubricants with latex condoms), tearing the condom with fingernails or teeth, or allowing the condom to be weakened due to time or heat.
5. Latex isn't your only good option
Some people are allergic to latex, and I don't think I know anybody who doesn't think it tastes terrible. For those with latex allergies, or those who want more sensation, polyurethane condoms are a great option. They're slightly less durable than latex (and generally require more lube), but they are thinner, they can be used with oil-based lubricants, and they work about as well as their latex cousins.
6. Female condoms are a real option
I've heard about female condoms in women's magazines and the like, but I don't think I know anybody who's tried them. But for independent-minded women they can be a very good option. Shaped like plastic tents with a base that stays outside the vagina, female condoms are a bit difficult to insert (and look a little funny with the base outside the vagina), but work in essence just as a male condom does.
7. Female condoms can be inserted in advance
Planning a romantic night with that new guy you met internet dating? Female condoms can help avoid that strange "fumbling for a condom" moment (which can often ruin the romance). They can be inserted hours before having sexual intercourse, allowing things to, well, take their course.
8. Condoms come in different sizes
We all know well enough that men come in all shapes and sizes. And though condoms have, of course, very adaptable lengths, not all condoms adapt to all sizes (that is, to all penis widths, which is what condom size refers to). If you're smaller or larger than average, it's a good idea to look for sized condoms-- even if it seems a little embarrassing. Why? Because a too-big condom could slip at an inopportune moment, and a too-small one could break.
9. Condoms can make sex more fun
Sex without a condom is generally nicer than sex without it-- something we all know. But the right condom can add to the experience rather than take it away. For one, because they dull sensation for the man, they can help to prolong intercourse (a good thing for both parties!). With the right accessories, such as vibrating penis rings, fun ridges and bumps, or warming lubes to heighten arousal, condoms can make for a very entertaining, um, ride.
10. You need to plan your condoms for the more intense stuff
Planning to get into some tight spaces, or want some intense action? Be sure to plan ahead. For more vigorous use, you'll want to pick up a package of heavy duty condoms.
