Condoms

Which condom is the best?

There is not 1 condom that is the best. It differs from person to person what you like. Pay attention to this when you buy condoms:

• Choose the right size. Then you reduce the chance the condom slips off or tears. And it feels better. You can measure your condom size via Meetjepenis.nu
• Choose a condom with a CE-logo. This means that the condom is a good one. You find the logo on the packaging
• Check the expiration date of the condom. The date is on the packaging. Do not use it after this date
• Use enough silicone- or waterbased lubricant. This way your condom will not break. And it feels better. Read more about lubricant
• Do not use things containing oil. Bodycreme or massage oil will dissolve the condom. It is no longer safe to use

Which size do you need for a condom?

There are different sizes of condoms. Most men will fit a regular size. Is the regular size too small or too big? Then you can choose another size.

Why is a proper size important?

A condom needs to fit well to have safe sex.

• Is it too small? Then it is difficult to get on or it is too tight. And that can make it tear
• Is it too big? Then it can slide off

When do you need another size?

Is a condom too big or too small? Usually that is because of the thickness of your penis. The length is less important.

How to find condoms in the right size?

You can ask for advice in the store where you are buying condoms. Or you can try different sizes.

Which condoms are there?

There are all types of different condoms:

Different materials

Most condoms are made of latex. That is a type of rubber. They stay good when you use lube. 

Do you have a latex allergy? Or do you want to use an oil-based lubricant? Choose a condom that is not latex then. These are made from another material: polyurethane or polyisoprene.

Thick or thin condoms

Condoms come in different thickness:

• Regular condoms: these are always okay to use. Also when you have anal sex
• Extra strong condoms: an extra strong condom can help to postpone orgasms. Because the condom is thicker, it will be more tight. You feel less during the sex. It is not necessary to use an extra strong condom when you have anal sex. A regular condom will be allright.
• Extra thin condoms: you feel more during the sex. Preferably avoid these when you have anal sex. They can tear.

With or without lubricant

Most condoms already have a bit of lube on them. For anal sex you will always use more lube. Read more about condoms and lube

For a different sensation

There are condoms that for example have studs or ribbing, or extra thin condoms. These change the sensation during sex.

With a colour or taste

You can use these for example for blowjobs. Glow-in-the-dark condoms also exist. And colored condoms.
 

Where to buy condoms? 

There are multiple places where you can buy condoms. For example in a:

• Supermarket
• Drug store
• Pharmacy
• Condom store
• Webshop 
• Club or cafe
• Sexshop

How to safely use a condom?

Are you using a condom properly? That reduces the chance of getting a STD or HIV. Notice the next few things when using condoms:

How to put a condom on:

• Put on the condom when the penis is fully erect
• Open the packaging at the serrated edge. Do this with your hands. Not with your teeth or a sharp object
• Close the tip of the condom wel by pressing it. Make sure there is no air between the condom and the penis
• Carefully roll the condom over the penis. As far as possible, with the rong on the outside. Do not pull it too hard around the penis
• Use lube when the penis goes into the ass. Then the sex will go easier. Do this on the outside of the condom. Not on your penis.

Never use 2 condoms over each other. This can make them tear.

What to pay attention to during sex?

• Do you have sex for longer than 15 minutes? Use a new condom then
• Does the condom slip off? Use a new one
• Did you notice that the condom slipped off too late? Or did the condom tear? You might need PEP-medications. These make sure that you will not get HIV. Read more about PEP

How to store condoms?

Store condoms in a dark, cool place. For example a closet or drawer next to your bed. Do not place condoms in the sun, on a heater or with sharp objects.

Condoms and lube

Using lube helps to have good sex. De penis can enter the ass more easily with it. Candoms can break when using the wrong kind of lube. Pay attention to the following:

Are you using condoms made from latex (rubber)?

• Use lube silicone- or waterbased lubricant. Then your condom will not break
• Do not use fat- or oilbased lubricant. For example coconut oil, bodylotion, massage oil, soap or creme. Your condom can break if you use these

Read how to use lube

Allergic to condoms?

Most condoms are made from latex (rubber). It is possible that this gives you a reaction. Or that a material in the lube on the condom gives you a reaction.

These are the symptoms you can get around your penis or anus after having used a condom:

• Irritation of the skin
• Itching
• Bumps

Do you think you might be allergic or over sensitive to condoms? You can do a few things:

• Make an appointment with your doctor. Talk about how you can protect yourself from STDs 
• Use condoms not made from latex. For example polyurethane or polyisopropane 
• Do you want advice about condoms? Ask in a condom store