Among the huge variety in the modern pharmaceutical market, the choice of contraception is becoming quite a challenge. Let's find out what every adult (and sometimes a teenager) needs to know in order to choose the best condom.
Is there a choice?
Every sexually active person, regardless of gender, at least once in his life finds himself in a situation where that very fabulous night awaits, but before it it is necessary to solve the difficult task of contraception. You must be absolutely sure of your own safety, but do not know which condom to choose? Which brand to give preference, how to choose the most suitable type?
So, here you are standing at the pharmacy window and in perplexity look at all this diversity. Why are so many condoms created ?! After all, this is just a penis, not a space rocket! So what do I need: superthin or super strong, of an anatomical shape or oversized, ribbed or with pimples, or even with an antennae, transparent or black, glowing in the dark and with the aroma of a banana or strawberry, with silicone or antibacterial grease, or maybe long love? How to understand here? There is a temptation to grab the first ones and run. So, what do you need to know in order to choose the best condom?
Where to buy it?
The first thing that comes to mind is, of course, a pharmacy. But sometimes, you need a contraceptive urgently, to go far to the pharmacy, and indeed the night is on the street ... And we go to the nearest round-the-clock stall on the corner. Remember, never do that! Since, firstly, the quality leaves much to be desired, as, indeed, the presented assortment. In addition, storage conditions and shelf life in such places, as a rule, are also not respected. Therefore, if you value your health, it is better to purchase contraceptives elsewhere.
The nearest supermarket immediately pops up in my memory, where whole racks are on display at the checkout. Here you can study the available assortment for hours. But why?! If you can go to any specialized online store and, having read all the information beforehand, make your choice. But the delivery time, alas, will be long. Therefore, it is best to purchase condoms at the pharmacy - this guarantees you quality from the manufacturer (not fake), and compliance with storage conditions and shelf life. Although a low-quality condom can be bought here, it will remain on your conscience, so do not save on your safety.
Which type to choose?
It all depends entirely on your imagination and preferences. First, decide on the size. By the way, keep in mind that XXL contraceptives are more a manufacturer’s advertising move than a real consumer need. Their size exceeds the standard only a couple of millimeters. And for 95% of men, the most common condoms are suitable. By the way, if you decide to purchase oversized products just to brag to the lady, be prepared for the unexpected - it can slip at the most inopportune moment. If this is your main problem, then everything is simple - buy tight-fitting so that the condom does not fall off.
So, with the size decided, and then? As for the surface topography, this is a matter of taste. And not your taste, but your girlfriend, because you still do not feel the difference.
If you want to diversify your sex life, try experimenting with color, smell (not taste - it doesn’t happen!) Or luminous contraceptives.
Material issue
Another important point is the material and type of lubricant. There are frequent cases when one of the partners has an allergic reaction to latex. In this case, there is a great alternative - condoms made of polyurethane or polyisoprene. As for the type of lubricant, it is also different. The bulk of condoms has a silicone lubricant. Nonoxynol-9, a substance that protects against sexually transmitted diseases and reduces sperm activity in the event of accidental damage to the condom, is most often included (except for the cheapest options). And everything would be fine, but, unfortunately, nonoxynol is often the cause of vaginal dysbiosis in women and the development of thrush.
An additional bonus can be a special lubricant that prolongs sexual intercourse (the so-called condoms long love).
Let's consider this question in more detail. Depending on whether you want to first give pleasure to your girlfriend or get it yourself, the chosen condom will vary.
Brands
If you already have your favorite manufacturers, it’s much easier for you. And if not? Keep in mind that the more popular the brand, the higher the quality of the product will be, but also the price, perhaps.
Crown condoms (manufacturing country - Japan) are popular among both men and women due to their subtlety, and, accordingly, brightness and naturalness of sensations.
Durex condoms are well-deserved leaders among all manufacturers who have been at the top of the list for many years. And they enjoy such fame deservedly - reliable and subtle, as it should be.
LifeStyles condoms produce an interesting model with a lubricant containing L-arginine. This amino acid increases the sexuality, arousal and sensitivity of both partners, which significantly improves the quality of sexual intercourse.
Contex condoms were loved by both men and women for their reliability and an abundance of lubricant, which makes intimacy much more natural and comfortable. In addition, the condoms of this line are represented by a wide variety of types (relief, lubricant, color, aroma, etc.).
Rating
Scientists from all countries have repeatedly conducted their research in attempts to choose the best condom. Now they are joined by journalists and bloggers. And what did they find out?
- The Durex condoms, as a rule, remain the most expensive, and the most inexpensive ones (within reason and without loss of quality) are Lux.
- The most durable condom is Life Styles along with Vizit, and Sico (Attention!) Is the least durable and often torn.
- Contex condoms became the most reliable in terms of protection against sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy.
How to choose the type of product?

- Superthin - these condoms are almost not felt during intercourse and are ideal for lovers of the most natural sensations.
- Super durable condoms.
- Relief - there are 2 types: with a relief from the inside or outside. Accordingly, for him or her. It is believed that they improve the quality of sexual intercourse, but statistics say that they do not have much influence.
- Flavored - created for oral caresses, but, contrary to popular belief, have no taste.
- Colored and glowing - yes, just pampering for teens!
- Lubricant-free condoms - for very passionate women with an excess of their own natural lubrication.
- Desensitizing condoms (with anesthetic) - prolong sexual intercourse.
- Original condoms (spiral, in the form of a dolphin, etc.) are created exclusively for the purpose of enticing money from a naive consumer.
- Vibro-condoms are a condom complete with a silicone vibrating ring. A great experiment, but you have to look (most often everything is in the same sex shops or on the Internet).
Too many options, or Eyes run up!
You still can not decide? Then just try everything in a row! But remember that safety comes first! Therefore, it is better to focus on well-known brands. But unknown condoms, reviews about which you found on the Internet, are not the best option. Most likely, these are purchased opinions that do not correspond to reality.
Readiness number 1!
So, you have chosen the best condom for yourself and are eager for battle! But do not forget a few simple rules:

- Never store condoms in the wallet and glove compartment of your car - they really do not like heat. Let them lie better in the bedside table.
- Condoms that have expired are to be disposed of, but not used - even if there is no money for a new one and it is urgently needed, but there is no other. It is impossible - and the point.
- When using a latex condom, it is strictly forbidden to use additional oil-based lubricants (petroleum jelly, massage oil , etc.).
- Condom packaging should be opened with your hands, but not with your teeth or other sharp objects.
- A condom should be worn on the fully erect penis.
- Condoms, reviews of which are negative, it is better not to use it, so do not hesitate to share experience with each other on the Internet and in live communication.
- You can put a condom on with your mouth only if it is flavored. From others you will just feel sick.
- In case of damage to the integrity of the condom, be sure to use postcoital contraceptive methods (Postinor or its analogues), as well as local antibacterial drugs (for example, Miramistin).
- Do not throw a used condom into the toilet! Dispose of it exclusively through the trash can.
Over the past decade, the range of condoms has expanded significantly and continues to improve. Do not be afraid to experiment and look for the best option for you.
And most importantly - do not forget about security and enjoy each other!