Life
You’ve likely had some up-close-and-personal experience with the standard latex external condom. You know the type: Comes in a shiny foil package, has a very distinctive smell, rolls down over a penis or toy, and prevents pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). But that’s just one (albeit very common) type of condom. There’s a whole world of condoms out there.
We’re talking internal. We’re talking lambskin. We’re talking polysipropene and spermicidal and ultra-thin and even ones that take their design inspiration from honeycomb. And that’s before even getting into some of the very specific novelty condoms out like there, like this one that’s basically a tattoo sleeve for a dick.
As a sex educator, sometimes I feel like a full-time cheerleader for the seemingly unappreciated condom. And I get it: Condoms don't have the greatest reputation. People complain that they ruin the mood or reduce sensation or are just awkward. But I really believe that part of the reason people hate on condoms so much is that they just don't know how many different types of condoms are out there.
So whether you’re looking to protect against pregnancy, STIs, or both, there’s a wide range of condoms out there for you to choose from. Here are seven types of condoms, for your consideration.
This article was originally published on