Condoms play an important role in sexual activities. They can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmitted through skin contact during oral sex, genital sex, or anal sex, and their contraceptive effectiveness is about 82%.

Standard latex condoms are the most common type of rubber. They are made of a non-porous latex material, which is not only easy to produce but also has a lower cost. It is a reliable choice for preventing pregnancy and STIs. However, when using latex condoms, it should be noted that they should not be used with oil-based lubricants. Lotions, massage oils, baby oils, Vaseline, etc. are all oil-based lubricants, which can damage the latex material and reduce the effectiveness of the condom. Therefore, it is recommended to use water-based or silicone-based lubricants. If any itching, redness, or rash occurs after use, consult a healthcare provider in time and have a latex allergy test.

For people who are allergic to latex, non-latex condoms offer several options. These include condoms made of polyurethane, polyisoprene, and lambskin. Polyurethane and polyisoprene condoms are made of synthetic materials and can effectively prevent pregnancy and STIs. They can also be used normally with both oil-based and water-based lubricants. Lambskin condoms are compatible with these two types of lubricants. They have a certain effect in contraception, but due to their porous material, they cannot effectively prevent STIs or HIV. So, unless there is no other choice, it is not recommended to use them.

Unlike external condoms, internal condoms (sometimes called female condoms) are inserted into the vagina. Due to the relatively difficult insertion process, their actual effectiveness is only 79%. To improve the contraceptive effect, they can be combined with other contraceptive methods such as birth control pills, intrauterine devices, and patches. One of its major advantages is that it allows people with a vagina to have better control over their sexual health. Moreover, they can be inserted within eight hours before sexual intercourse, so there is no need to stop and change the condom during orgasm. However, it should be noted that they should not be used with external condoms at the same time, as this will increase the risk of both breaking.

Lambskin condoms are made from the intestinal walls of animals. Their material may give a more natural feeling and may increase sensitivity during sexual intercourse, but they have larger pores. Sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV or herpes can be transmitted through these pores. Therefore, they cannot effectively prevent STIs, and their contraceptive effect is relatively poor. Unless there is no other option, they are generally not recommended.

Flavored condoms are a simple way to add novelty to sexual life, especially for those who don't like the taste of latex during oral sex. Essentially, they are the same as high-quality latex condoms, just covered with a delicious coating. These condoms are also safe for vaginal intercourse, but if the user experiences any vaginal irritation, a different type of condom should be considered next time.

Glow-in-the-dark condoms are usually made of latex. They are as effective as ordinary condoms in preventing pregnancy and STIs. They are more designed based on personal preference and there is no safety issue. For example, if a friend gives you a box of glow-in-the-dark condoms, you can use them with confidence.

On the condom shelf, some products claim that their unique design and shape can enhance pleasure. These condoms usually have ribs on the sleeve, that is, there is extra texture on the outside. These ribs are designed to increase stimulation, and depending on their position, both parties may feel pleasure. However, if the genitals are very sensitive, you may find ribbed or other textured condoms too irritating. One way to reduce friction is to use a lubricant.

Some condoms contain spermicide, a chemical that can immobilize and destroy sperm. This substance itself is 79% effective in preventing pregnancy and has various forms, including foam, gel, cream, film, suppositories, tablets. However, this chemical may cause irritation or allergic reactions. So, unless necessary, it is best to use non-spermicidal condoms.

As the name suggests, thin or ultra-thin condoms have relatively less material. Because they do not overly reduce sexual sensation, they are regarded by many as one of the most popular barrier contraceptive methods. However, many people worry that thinner material means they are more likely to break. In fact, condom breakage is usually caused by heat, friction, and the use of oil-based lubricants, rather than the thickness of the material itself.

These types of latex condoms have built-in lubricants. So, users don't need to worry about bringing their own lubricants or whether the lubricants they bring are compatible with the latex condom (because oil-based lubricants can break down latex). Lubricated condoms can also reduce friction caused by vaginal dryness. This can prevent irritation and prevent the condom from tearing or breaking.

Tingling condoms can bring a "tingling" feeling to one or both parties due to the addition of a specially formulated lubricant. This feeling varies from person to person. Some people think this subtle tingling feeling is very comfortable, while others may feel uncomfortable or hardly feel it. It mainly depends on personal preference. In addition, most of these rubber condoms use mint lubricants to achieve the desired effect, which means that their taste or smell may also be better than ordinary latex condoms.

Condoms can be made of various materials, such as latex, nitrile rubber, and lambskin. There are also some novel and interesting types, such as those that glow in the dark or have flavorings. If you are not satisfied with the use of a certain condom, it is best to try different types of condoms or other contraceptive methods. After all, each type of condom has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the final choice still depends on which one best meets the needs and feelings of you and your partner.