By gilliebean (23, F, CA)
Condoms are 98 percent effective when used correctly and even more so when used in combination with spermicide or oral contraceptives. A lot of times, using a condom can seem like a hassle or a necessary evil at best, but here are a few ways to make safe sex more enjoyable. (This list contains mature content!)
10. Smooth Operator
One word: lube. Use a water-based lubricant (oil-based lubricants like Vaseline can break down latex condoms) like K-Y Jelly or Astroglide with a condom for much smoother, and therefore more enjoyable, sex. Dry condoms cause friction, which is painful and can cause condom breakage.
9. Add Some Flavor
Try flavored condoms for a fun (and safer) twist on oral sex. You can find them in strawberry, vanilla, spearmint, cherry and other flavors. You can also use a condom-safe flavored lube.
8. Anticipation is Half the Fun
Instead of running into the drugstore, grabbing the nearest box of condoms and buying them as quickly as possible, try to make buying condoms a form of foreplay. Go with your partner to the store, one off the beaten track if you’re worried you’ll see people you know. Browse the different kinds of condoms together, and get excited about the fact that you’re going to have sex soon. You can also buy online.
7. Textured is Better
Ribbed, studded, extra sensation. Mix it up a little and try condoms that are textured for added sensation.
6. Not Just for Boys
Girls, now you can get in on the action by using the female condom. It’s made of polyurethane, so it’s safe for those allergic to latex, and it lines the inside of the vagina. Because the female condom conducts heat well and is made of a thin material, it’s a more sensual experience. You can also insert the condom up to eight hours ahead of time if you don’t want to ruin the moment. It's important NOT to use a female condom at the same time as a male condom because the friction can cause the two condoms to break.
5. Getting Lucky
Use condoms as a sign of good things to come (no pun intended). Surreptitiously slip a condom into your partner’s jacket pocket to hint at future activities.
4. Afraid of the Dark
Dim those lights, put some Marvin Gaye on the stereo and try glow-in-the-dark condoms as an alternative to candlelight. Pair them with glow-in-the-dark body paints for an illuminating experience.
3. Thin is Beautiful
Condoms don’t have to feel like garbage bags. Try extra-thin condoms that offer maximum protection and maximum sensitivity.
2. Put the Play into Foreplay
Incorporate condoms into your foreplay. As things get more heated, slyly take out a condom and show it to your partner as a not-so-subtle way of saying, “You’re gonna get some.” Take your time and put it on slowly so you don’t spoil the mood.
1. Oral Fixation
Learn how to put a condom on with your mouth. This one may take a little practice. Use a non-lubricated or flavored condom, and be careful to use your lips and tongue, not your teeth!
