People Often Ask – Male condoms: Types, materials (latex, polyurethane), and proper use
People often have condom questions—about doubling up, using them on your period, hormone effects, and sizing—and the real answers are about friction, fit, and how your body works, not scary myths.
Can someone walk me through proper condom use without it being awkward—like when exactly to put it on, how to check it’s the right way around, and what to do if it slips or breaks?
Condoms only work if they’re used right: put one on before any genital contact, make sure it’s facing the right way, pinch the tip, roll to the base, use lube, and if it slips or breaks, stop, swap it out, and consider emergency contraception and STI testing.
What’s the real difference between thin, ribbed, and “ultra sensation” condoms—like is any of that actually safer or better, or is it mostly marketing?
Thin, ribbed, and “ultra sensation” condoms are all equally effective for pregnancy and STI protection; the differences are mostly about sensation, while fit, lube, and your cycle have a much bigger impact on comfort and pleasure.
If I’m sensitive to latex (or just get irritated down there), are polyurethane condoms actually a good swap, or are there other materials I should look for?
If latex condoms are making your vulva angry, you have options. Polyurethane condoms are a solid latex-free swap, but polyisoprene is often more comfortable, and irritation isn’t always about latex alone—lube, friction, and your cycle all matter.