Walking into the pharmacy and heading down what seems to be an endless aisle of condoms, lubricants, and pregnancy tests could be uncomfortable and overwhelming.
The rows and shelves of limitless condoms could leave you feeling confused in which brand, size, and texture is the right one for you. Instead of grabbing the brand your friend uses, or the one you saw in a TV commercial, it’s best to take a look at the condom guide to help you stay sexy and safe.
Condoms—when used correctly and consistently—prevent pregnancy about 98 percent of the time. The typical effectiveness rate—where mistakes are made or condoms break—is about 82 percent.
In preparation for your trip to Costa Rica, “don’t be silly, protect your willy” and always remember, “no glove, no love!”
In the United States, condoms are considered as “Class II medical devices” by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) along with pregnancy tests and powered wheelchairs, meet special labeling requirements and performance standards. The FDA standards for condoms include a systematic “water leak” to ensure no fluid can leak out of the condoms with a minimum of 996 out of 1,000 having to pass the test. This is why FDA-approved condoms usually say they must be at least “99.6 percent effective.” These condoms are considered to be quite effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
In Costa Rica, it’s another matter. The most common brand available in pharmacies, supermarkets, pulperias (small corner grocery stores), gas stations and the local strip club, is Durex. Although the brand is excellent in quality and safety, there are no requirements and performance standards to adhere to. In some stores you may find American brands like Trojan, but they are few.
To increase a condom’s effectiveness, you must choose the brand, size, and texture that is right for you. Storing condoms in hot places like the glove compartment, in a wallet, or a pocket, can decrease the condom’s effectiveness. You should always check the expiration date before you purchase condoms.
For condom shopping tips, refer to the condom guide below to ensure everything goes smooth in between the sheets.
Condom Material
Latex
Latex, or synthetic lates, and does not contain pores. This type of material is carried by a wide selection of brands. It’s the least expensive. These condoms are durable and won’t rip if they are used with water-based lubricant, says Sexetc.org.
Polyurethane
This is a synthetic material that is recommended for people who are allergic or sensitive to latex. These condoms are clear in color, but not as elastic as latex, and are wider than the average sized condom.
Lambskin
Lambskin condoms — made of the intestine of a lamb — are the oldest type of condoms that are effective in preventing pregnancy, but not in preventing STIs or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. These condoms also offer a more natural feel and can be used with both water-based and oil-based lube. They are more expensive and do not offer protection against infections.
Lubricated
Condoms with a water-based or silicone-based lubricant coating are intended to ease penetration and minimize friction and the risk of ripping.
Spermicidally Lubricated
Condoms that contain spermicidal lubricant, Nonoxynol-9 (N-9), were thought to reduce sperm movement and therefore, prevent pregnancy. In 2007, the FDA issued a final notice that required manufacturers to state the chemical N-9 does not provide protection against infection from HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). N-9 can also cause irritation, small sores in people, and can actually provide the breeding grounds for HIV transmission.
Non-Lubricated
These condoms are mainly used for oral sex, and for those who have allergies or sensitivities to lubricants.
Size
Penis girth affects how a condom fits. Standard condoms fit those with the average penis girth of four-and-a-half to five inches. For those whose girth is above average, larger sized condoms may be appropriate. For those who have a less than average girth, standard condoms may fall off during sex. Therefore, it’s best to opt for those that provide a snug fit.
Condom sizes are: Snugger fit, Regular and Large. The large size in Costa Rica by the Durez brand is “Confort”, just in case you consider yourself in that category. Using too small (or too big) an condom can severely affect your performance. Like women have to worry about the correct bra size, men should use the right condom size. Not all dicks are the same!
If you are unsure of your size for the right condom, here is a condom size chart to help you.
NOTE: I have never seen Extra Large condoms in Costa Rica, so if you are in that category (or think you are), bring from home. The absence of the size in the country may also be an indication of why Ticas love North Americans. Just a thought!
Texture
Thin or Thick
A condom’s texture can be either thin or thicker, depending on the user’s preference. Some people prefer thinner condoms because they allow more sensation, while others prefer thicker condoms because it provides security. However, “ultrathin,” “ribbed,” or “studded” condoms are viewed just as effective as regular condoms.
Novelty
Condoms that glow in the dark, or are flavored, are considered to be novelty condoms. According to the Halifax Sexual Health Centre, flavored condoms can change the vagina’s pH and possibly lead to yeast or bacterial infection. Typically, these condoms are not recommended for vaginal or anal sex, but are deemed OK for oral sex on men. Be sure that these condoms are labeled as FDA approved to meet the agency’s standards for protection against pregnancy and STIs.
Lock and loaded!
