In this modern era, much of what we purchase for ourselves comes in a variety of shapes and sizes but for condoms, one of the essential pregnancy and disease prevention devices we have, they leave a lot to be desired.
The issue with condoms is that they do not reflect the variety of size, shape, and circumference of some penises, that are outside of the average. In an earlier post, “Size Does Matter,” I did say that men’s penis size and shape doesn’t actually vary that much, which is mostly true. But for the men who don’t find a good condom fit, because they are outside of the norm, they won’t want to use a condom at all, upping their risk for unintended consequences of going without protection. There are a variety of condoms on the shelves of stores, but few are related to size. They are ribbed, flavored, lubricated, or designed with a reservoir tip. But no one-size fit all. Fits most? Maybe.
Condom Size Does Matter
If the condom is too big, it will be uncomfortable, make sex less pleasurable and possibly slip right off during intercourse. If the condom is too small, breakage is highly likely. Having a better fit might encourage more use and if your partner is confident in the safety of the condom, that is likely to encourage more sex. Safer sex.
The Solution: Sixty Sizes
A Boston-based company now sells custom-fit condoms in 60 sizes, in combinations of 10 lengths and nine circumferences, according to a recent article in Time. The company created a thoughtful way for men to determine which condom is right for them—a template. The template uses randomly ordered letters and numbers instead of inches or centimeters. One man might be E99, another Z22, so there is no shame in their condom game. A kind solution for the more or less endowed.
Wrap it Up
Even if you have the perfect fit, it also takes some finesse to use the condom effectively and safely.
Some tips from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):
1. Unroll the condom all the way down the erect penis.
2. After sex but before pulling out, hold the condom at the base. Then pull out, while holding the condom in place.
3. Carefully remove the condom and throw it in the trash.
Do you have questions about your sexual health? Give us a call to make an appointment at (202) 293-1000.