According to a forecast, between 2017 and 2022, the condom market in the United States will have a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.5%, from a $1,366.86 million in 2016 to about $1,680.22 million in 2022.
Still a popular barrier method of contraception, a condom is effective in minimizing the chances of pregnancy as well as decreasing the risks of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV/AIDS.
Condoms of today come in different flavors, shapes, color, material and textures. And while male condoms are far more used, female condoms are also available and serve the same purpose.
Disclaimer: condom-sizes.org is supported by its readers. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.
With its popularity and the possibility of condom failure, it is crucial to answer questions commonly asked by men and women.
Condom FAQs
How effective are condoms for HIV infection protection and if they are effective in preventing pregnancy, why do condoms fail sometimes?
When it comes to preventing pregnancy condoms are around 98% effective if used correctly. What this means is that if 100 couples use condoms consistently over a period of one year, two women out of 100 will get pregnant.
Meanwhile, some of the causes of condom failure include:
- Not using the condom consistently
This means that a condom is not used every time while having sex. - Not using a condom properly
Not putting it on correctly, not keeping it on during the whole intercourse and similar.
Read more about How to put on a condom properly. - Using a Wrong Fit
If the condom used is a misfit, this can either lead to slippage or breakage. Using condom that is too small can stretch the material and eventually cause a tear. Conversely, if it is too loose, it can slip during sexual intercourse and fail to serve its purpose.
Read How To Choose The Right Condom Size - Using Expired Condoms or not storing condoms properly
Another reason for condom failure is a result of using it even after the date of expiration or storing it in a way that it can get damaged (e.g.,. in a wallet). If this happens, the condom may be at risk of breaking or tearing in the middle of a sexual encounter.
Why is condom size so important?
If the size is too loose, it is more likely to slip. Conversely, if the condom is too tight, this can cause for it to break.
Additionally, a snugly fit condom does not diminish sensitivity; thus, the experience becomes more pleasurable. It also gives a better feeling to the person using it, especially if it is lubricated.
Find out more:
How To Find Your Condom Size
What condom size should I buy?
Check this article for more information:
How do I measure my penis for appropriate condom size?
That number is your penis circumference.
For more information check out this post: How To Measure Your Penis In Order To Find The Perfect Condom Size
In case a condom breaks during sexual intercourse, what should be done?
Conversely, to reduce the possibility of STD infection, in case the condom breaks during sex, withdraw the penis, remove the condom and both partners should wash their genitals with soap and water. Taking a STD test is also advised.
Read more:
What are all the available condom sizes that I can buy?
When we talk about condom length, the shortest condom available is 125 mm (4.92”) long, and the longest is 238 mm (9.4”).
On the other hand, the condom width goes from 45 mm (1.77”) to 69 mm (2.72”).
Check out these resources:
OK, I know my penis circumference, which condom width should I look for?
Penis Circumference (in) | Suggested Condom Width (in) | Penis Circumference (mm) | Suggested Condom Width (mm) |
---|---|---|---|
<4" | 1.77" - 1.85" | <102mm | 45 - 47mm |
4.1" – 4.5" | 1.85" – 1.93" | 104 -114mm | 47 - 49mm |
4.5" – 4.7" | 1.96" – 2.05" | 114 – 119mm | 50 - 51mm |
4.7" - 4.9" | 2.05" - 2.09" | 119 – 124mm | 52 – 53mm |
4.9" – 5.1" | 2.09" - 2.13" | 125 – 130mm | 53 – 54mm |
5.1" – 5.5" | 2.15" - 2.28" | 130 – 140mm | 55 - 58mm |
5.5" – 5.8" | 2.28" – 2.37" | 140 – 147mm | 58 – 60mm |
5.8" – 6.1" | 2.37" – 2.53" | 147 – 155mm | 60 - 64mm |
>6.1" | 2.53" – 2.72" | >155mm | 64 - 69mm |
Also, check out this post:
I found the appropriate condom width but the length of the condom is too long (or too short)? Is that a problem?
What you need to consider is condom width since it is the most important factor in relation to the circumference of the penis when erect. If it is too wide, there is a greater risk of slippage, and vice verse, if it’s too snug, there’s a risk of a condom tearing.
What are the common errors of condom users?
Read more: Biggest Condom Mistakes
Can lubricants be used with condoms?
Read more: Using Condoms With Lubricants
Does using condoms come with health risks?
Read more:
Can condoms be used under water?
Read more: Can You Use A condom In The Water?
How are female condoms used and are they more difficult to use than male condoms?
This condom is used by inserting the smaller ring at the closed end in the vagina and ensuring that it does not twist.
Read more: Female Condom Improvements with FC2
Final Words
Couples, including teenagers, are advised to practice safe sex not only to reduce the incidence of pregnancy and HIV/AIDs infection. While condoms are effective, they are not 100% foolproof.
Abstinence from sex is still the only 100% effective way to mitigate the risks of HIV/AIDS, STDs, and unplanned pregnancies.
However, by following the tips and suggestion mentioned above, you will be maximizing both your safety and pleasure.
Image: Pixabay