How to choose condoms? Do you need to measure the size before purchasing? Doctor: Be careful that "this material" may induce allergies
When having sexual intercourse, using condoms can achieve the effects of contraception, reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, and protect the health of yourself and your partner. However, there are so many condom products on the market, how do you choose the one that suits you? Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare, Food and Drug Administration invited Dr. Gu Fangyu from Gu Fangyu Urology Clinic to explain to men the differences in condom materials, how to measure the size, and correctly choose the right size condom.
What materials are condoms made of? Is the “ultra-thin type” easier to break?
Dr. Gu Fangyu said that the main differences between condoms on the market are “texture” and “thickness”. Common materials are as follows:
Latex. It is characterized by elasticity and good softness, but it tends to have a plastic smell and is prone to allergies. In addition, its texture is relatively uneven, so it is difficult to make it less than 0.04mm thick.
PU (polyurethane). PU is a petrochemical raw material, which is characterized by its thinness and lightness. Most of the condom products currently on the market with a diameter of less than 0.04mm are made of this material. However, its elasticity is not as good as latex, so it is recommended to use it with lubricant.
Dr. Gu Fangyu advises the public that if they experience allergic symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling at the contact area after using a condom, they can seek medical assistance to confirm whether it is a latex allergy. In addition, many people think that thin condoms are easy to break. In fact, regardless of the material and thickness of condoms, the safety is similar when used correctly.
Some condoms have added local anesthetics, fragrances, or have different appearances such as threads and particles. Will these designs affect safety? Dr. Gu Fangyu said that as long as it is approved by the Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare, there is not much difference in safety. However, additional ingredients may cause allergies. If you have severe allergic symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
When choosing a condom, do you need to measure the length first? How to wear it for effective contraception?
When men choose condoms, should they also pay attention to the “size” issue? Dr. Gu Fangyu explained that condom size is calculated based on “width”. Width refers to “half of the circumference of a condom.” When choosing a condom, men can measure the circumference of the erect penis in advance. The circumference divided by 2 is the width. The most common condom size on the market is 52mm wide. If you need a larger or smaller size, you can ask the store if they have corresponding products.
Dr. Gu Fangyu pointed out that condoms must be used from the beginning of physical contact to achieve the effect of contraception and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. People who need it can practice the correct wearing method: pinch the front end of the condom, put it on the top of the glans, and push it down along the crease to the base of the penis. Avoid being too impatient and getting stuck, or wearing it in the wrong way, which will increase risks and discomfort.
Don’t use Vaseline as lubricant! Doctor: Pay attention to “3 things” before buying condoms
Dr. Gu Fangyu pointed out that generally speaking, when latex or PU condoms come into contact with oily substances, the condom’s tension will deteriorate and it will easily break. Therefore, do not use oily substances such as petroleum jelly or baby oil as lubricants; Instead, use water-based lubricants with condoms, and when purchasing lubricant products, read the product labels carefully to confirm the types that can be used together.
In addition, Dr. Gu Fangyu also reminds men that if there are anesthetics, lubricants, etc. prescribed by a doctor in advance on the surface of the penis, they must be wiped clean before putting on a condom to avoid chemical interaction between the drugs and the condom, which may cause safety problems. doubt.
Finally, the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration reminds that qualified condom products will have a license number issued by the Ministry of Health and Welfare printed on the packaging (such as “Ministry of Health Medical Device Input No. OOOOOO”, “Ministry of Health Medical Device Manufacturer No.” No. OOOOOO"). Before use, you should read the label, identify the license number, and confirm that it is a legal product before purchasing. This can increase the health protection of yourself and your partner.
Source:
Taiwan Food and Drug Administration Drug and Food Safety Weekly Report Issue 881-1
Taiwan Food and Drug Administration Drug and Food Safety Weekly Report Issue 881-2
Further reading:
