The popular understanding of the word 'condom' is vastly the male condom which consists of a sheath or a covering that fits over the male penis and which is closed at one end. A condom is most commonly used during sexual intercourse. When slipped on by a man on an erect penis, it prevents the ejaculated semen from coming in contact with the body of the sexual partner. The primary function of a condom is to prevent pregnancy and when used properly and consistently, a condom rarely fails to perform its function.

Condoms are made from a variety of materials but the most common is latex. A lot of condoms are also made of polyurethane. The preferred and popular choice however is of condoms made of latex as they are readily available in most countries and they are slightly more reliable than other varieties. However, care has to be taken to use only water based lubricants with condoms made of latex as opposed to oil or vaseline based lubricants as the latter are known to break down latex rendering them unsafe. Some who are prone to allergic reactions caused by latex can safely opt for condoms made of polyurethane which are open to both oil and water based lubricants. A leaking condom is a cause for concern because accidents though rare do happen and both varieties vie for claims to fool proof safety. However, the case for both is equally strong so the choice ultimately rests with the user.

One would do well to understand that like all other products that we purchase, condoms have a shelf life too and come with an expiry date. As is with most products, the date of manufacture also tells you upto what date the condom can be safely used. Once past that date the condom may just not be safe to use and may defeat its very purpose of preventing pregnancy or that of preventing an infection.

Instructions for storage of condoms also need to be followed stringently as they are affected by both light and heat. Hence it is not judicious to use condoms that have ben stored in the back pocket, wallet or in the dash board of your car where they are subjected to high temperatures. Being sticky or very dry are also signs of condom damage and one would rather throw away the damaged piece and opt for a new one than suffer the damage of an unwanted pregnancy and all that goes with it!

Thus, condoms do really have a lot to advocate their case as being the best form of birth control available. They have none of the medical side effects that other forms of birth control may have. In addition they come in various sizes, shapes, flavors, colors and textures to revv up your sex life. You don't have to go hunting for a medical prescription before shopping for condoms. They are available off the shelf and easily so. Condoms definitely make sex less messy and unlike other contraceptives you use them only when having sex and not with the regularity of brushing your teeth!

Condoms for sale are available at CondomElite, an online store featuring a great selection of condoms from famous brands.

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