COLUMN: How to Make Condoms Suck Less
Ok, so you’re in college now and meeting tons of attractive people. Maybe you’re thinking about hooking up with one or more of them, or maybe you already have.
In any case, if you’re going to have sex, you need to be smart about it. I’m not going to lecture you about STIs, their frequency in college-age populations, or abstinence. I will teach you things you weren’t taught in junior or senior high sexual education or health classes — things that can improve your sex life.
This week’s lesson focuses on enhancing male condom use. If you’ve ever worn one, you know that condom use, while protecting against many STIs and unintended pregnancies, also comes with a few drawbacks.
One such drawback is that condoms can be uncomfortable to wear. First of all, make sure you’re putting it on correctly. Figure out which way it will roll down, pinch the tip of the condom and—leaving room for semen to collect— then roll it down, carefully, all the way to the base of the penis.
If it still feels too tight, experiment with different size options. Do your research online about condom sizing, and you will find that larger condoms accommodate for larger girth, as well as length.
Check your local pharmacy or any large grocery store in the family planning section, which is within the health and beauty section, for the best selection. You can also shop online from these same major chain stores, or from specialty stores online.
Another common complaint is that condoms chafe the skin of both sexual partners. The best thing to do in this situation is to add a water-based lubricant, both to the glans (head) of the penis, as well as to your partner’s genitals.
Don’t hesitate to reapply if too much friction occurs again. Popular brands of lubricant include Astroglide® and K-Y®, and these can be found right next to the condoms in stores, as well as online.
There is a great variety of pleasure-enhancing lubricants, in addition to traditional lubricants, that you can experiment with.
Additionally, for water play, a silicone-based lubricant works wonders. Do not use oil-based lubricants, as these can deteriorate latex condoms, thereby decreasing their effectiveness.
Finally, I’d like to point out that sex can actually be better with the use of certain condoms. For example, young men can be concerned by premature ejaculation. Condoms with benzocaine decrease sensation, which can help you last longer.
You can also obtain benzocaine specifically formulated for sex in various topical forms, such as creams, lubricants and sprays, which you can use with your favorite type of condom.
Again, these can be found with the condoms in stores and online. Furthermore, textured condoms, like those that are ribbed or studded, increase pleasure and sensation for your partner by stimulating your partner in different ways that are not otherwise possible without a condom.
Even the act of putting a condom on can be arousing for partners.
I hope these tips have been helpful. Be smart, safe and have fun.
