Penis Protection: Condoms Are Still Needed

The horrific rise of HIV in the 1980s decimated many communities and destroyed many lives. To help prevent the spread of HIV, however, many more people became much more conscientious about using condoms to provide penis protection – as well as protection that extends beyond penis health. Many doctors and public health professionals are concerned that nowadays, with advances made in treatment for HIV and AIDS, that condom use is slipping. But there’s still a great need for men to use condoms rather than engage in unprotected non-monogamous partner sex.

New developments

Antiretroviral therapies are now available that can help to treat an individual with HIV, although these treatments cannot cure HIV. However, they are helping many people with HIV to live much longer lives. In addition, there now is a pre-exposure prophylaxis option, which can be used by individuals without HIV to drastically reduce the possibility of them contracting AIDS.

Both of these developments are incredibly important and have changed the lives of millions of people. However, because of these changes, some men feel that there is less need to use condoms when having sex. That’s simply not the case.

Other issues

First, pre-exposure prophylaxis does not have a 100 percent success rate (although its success rate is very high), so the possibility of contracting HIV does still exist. (To be accurate, use of condoms also does not have a 100 percent success rate.) But of equal importance, there are many other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) other than HIV that a man might need to worry about. By not using condoms, men are making it much more likely that they will contract one of these other STIs (and potentially pass it on to other partners as well).

Among the STIs that one is less likely to contract if one regularly uses condoms are classics that most people have at least heard of, such as gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and chlamydia. But there are others that are perhaps a little less well known, such as:

- Trichomoniasis, which is caused by a parasite and may cause significant pain in the penis, especially when urinating or ejaculating. It is especially concerning in pregnant women, as it can lead to premature births.

- Genital warts, the appearance of which tends to put off many partners. These may itch and/or bleed, and may cause some discomfort.

- Pubic lice and scabies, tiny parasites that can cause serious itching and that can lead to infection if not treated. Wearing condoms helps prevent the spread of these parasites; however, they can still be passed on by skin-to-skin contact of unprotected areas (such as the balls or the crotch).

One other thing to remember: Although most STIs are passed on through unprotected skin-on-skin sex, it is possible for an infection to spread from shared use of sex toys, such as a vibrator. Using a condom and/or sterilizing sex toys before they are used by another can help reduce the chance of spreading STIs in this manner.

Many people feel that there is such a stigma attached to an STI that they’d rather not know if they have one. This is dangerous not only to themselves but to any sexual partners they have. Though an STI diagnosis can be scary, it is much better to know and get early treatment than to not know.

Condoms are a great start, but good penis protection requires more, such as efforts to maintain optimal penis health. One way to help achieve this goal is via daily use of a first-rate penis health oil (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). For best results, peruse labels and choose an oil that contains the essential vitamins, A, B5, C, D, and E, which benefit from topical application. In addition, the oil should contain L-arginine, an amino acid that plays a role in helping blood vessels to expand for better blood flow.

Safe Sex: Guide to Condom Use

Many men like to think they know everything about sex, or at least act like they do. When it comes to putting on a condom, men probably aren’t eager to ask questions about proper application, even if they understand how important safe sex is for maintaining overall health generally and penis health in particular.

But men with questions regarding safe sex have nothing to be ashamed of. For starters, nobody is born knowing everything, and a lack of knowledge about certain aspects of sex doesn’t necessarily indicate a lack of experience.

In the U.S., the state of sex education is poor. In December of 2015, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released a report stating that less than one-fifth of middle schools and one half of high schools are teaching all the sex education topics that the organization deems important. The least likely topics to be taught involve condom use - specifically, how to obtain and correctly use condoms.

Where to Get Them
 
Of course, it’s always possible to walk into a store and pick up a pack of condoms. But for some men, the cost may be prohibitive. Check out local sexual health clinics and progressive organizations that may provide free access to condoms. Some schools and youth organizations make them available to young men and women.

For men who can purchase condoms but for social reasons don’t want to get them from the local store, consider buying them online. Options abound, and this method is more discreet.

How to Use Correctly
 
There’s a lot to keep in mind when applying a condom, but it gets simpler with practice. The following steps should be followed:

- Get the right size. Condoms that are too tight or too loose are prone to slipping or breaking. Look up size charts, and measure the circumference of the penis to see which is best for oneself.

- Check the expiration date.

- Check the package for any damage.

- Check the condom itself for any damage.

- When rolling the condom down the penis, leave room at the tip for semen and pinch the tip to prevent an air bubble from forming, which may burst the condom when a man ejaculates.

- Once the condom is on the penis, smooth out any air bubbles along the shaft.

- Don’t store condoms in wallets or other tight places.

- Have lubricant handy in case a partner is not adequately wet. Lack of lubrication is a major reason for condom breakage.

- Practice makes perfect. Try using a condom when one masturbates; this will give a man plenty of test-runs applying condoms.

No Shame in the Safe Sex Game
 
It’s a shame that men might feel enough shame around their own lack of sex education that they would forego learning the essentials. It’s never too late to educate oneself. Along with this guide, there are plenty of helpful, reputable resources online to help men get their bearings where the school system may have failed them.

Also, men should not hesitate to ask health professionals for assistance. If a man has a primary doctor but is not comfortable discussing safe sex with him or her, making an appointment at a designated sexual health clinic is advisable. There, the professionals are more than used to the questions a man may have, and highly capable of answering them.

Another area that may not have been covered in school is maintaining proper penis health in other ways beyond practicing safe sex. One way to do so is to invest in keeping the penile skin in good condition. Lubricant helps in this department, as it can cut down on chafing during sexual activities (partner-based or solo). Another great idea is to use a quality penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) with Shea butter and vitamin E. These two moisturizers keep the skin smooth, soft and supple, looking and feeling its best. Show the manhood a little extra love with a skin care product like Man1 Man Oil.

Safe Sex Made Sexy: Condom Foreplay

Condoms are an important part of safe sex, but some men have a difficult time staying hard while putting on a rubber. There are a number of reasons why this might occur - one being that the step can be an interruption of the arousing activities that came before. Maintaining arousal while applying a condom is important for men with issues staying erect during this step. Since safe sex is imperative for penis health, men should apprise themselves of different ways to ensure that condoms don’t disrupt the mood.

Visuals
 
Men are known for being highly visual when it comes to sexual stimulation. Having a partner perform activities that a man enjoys watching can help him maintain an erection while putting on a condom. The partner may masturbate for the man or fondle her breasts as he suits up, for example. If a man has a kink that the partner is into, such as a particular fondness for lingerie, indulging in this for him can also be helpful.

Hand it Over
 
For some men, having a partner apply the condom is the ticket for maintaining arousal. The partner might want to consider providing some oral stimulation just before applying the condom. He or she can stroke the base of the penis while placing the rubber on his head, then pinch the tip and roll it down. Smoothing out any air bubbles along the shaft can turn into a hand job, making it less a procedural action and more a part of foreplay.

From Behind
 
The partner who is experienced with putting a condom on his or her lover may wish to do so from behind. The man can kneel or stand, while the partner kneels or stands behind him, kissing his neck, stroking the base of the penis while placing the wrapper on the head and, as with the step above, pinching the tip, rolling it down and smoothing out air bubbles.

At the Entrance
 
If the partner is female, she can lie on her back, spread her legs and place the rubber in front of her vagina. The man can then kneel in front of her and put the condom on ever-so-close to her opening, then slide right in.

Don’t Skip Proper Steps
 
Partners can experiment with different ways of keeping the sexiness going during the condom application process, but it’s important that these experiments don’t involve skipping important steps that ensure proper condom use. These steps include:

- Checking the expiration date (best done ahead of time)
- Checking the package and the condom itself for damage
- Squeezing the tip while rolling it down
- Smoothing out air bubbles
- Making sure that the partner is adequately lubricated to prevent condom breakage (not to mention discomfort)

It’s easy to rush when things are getting hot and heavy, but these steps are imperative for correct condom use.

Making condom use part of foreplay requires that partners know what they are doing. It’s a good idea to practice. Get some condoms and practice applying them, either to a man’s penis or another phallic object, following all the proper steps so that one becomes completely comfortable from start to finish.

Some men may experience irritation at the penile tip from friction created by condom use. Fortunately, there are varieties of condoms with roomier tips that may be more comfortable. Applying a drop of lube in the tip can also increase comfort - and pleasure! Another step men can take to prevent friction-related chafing is to apply a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) daily. With Shea butter and vitamin E, Man1 Man Oil moisturizes the penis to keep the skin smooth, supple and resilient. Skin care is important for men, too, and the penis is no exception. Taking care of the manhood will help maintain sensitivity and function in the long run.

Erectile Function Maintenance while Wearing Condoms

Having difficulty maintaining an erection while putting on and wearing a condom is a fairly common complaint among men. Since safe sex is a crucial component of penis health, and erectile function is imperative for sexual health, it’s important for men to find ways to manage the situation. One of the first steps to doing so is to identify reasons why men have difficulty remaining erect when condoms enter the equation. Then, a man can work toward addressing the issue.

The Stats
 
The Kinsey Institute, an esteemed sex research group, has studied the prevalence of erectile issues associated with condom use. In one survey, they found that 28% of men experienced a loss of erection while putting a condom on at least one time out of the last three times they used one. These men were about twice as likely to remove their condoms before intercourse had ended as men who didn’t experience condom-associated erectile problems (41% compared to 21%).

This research indicates both that erection issues when applying a condom are common, and that they can affect men’s decision-making around wearing protection.

Possible Causes
 
The following are likely reasons why men may become soft while applying condoms:

- Nerves. If men are nervous about putting condoms on correctly, this worry can negatively impact arousal. Likewise, if men are nervous about losing an erection during the process, this can turn into a self-fulfilling prophesy.

- Associations. Condoms are important for preventing sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. The associations of disease and pregnancy may become so attached to condoms that the objects themselves act as a major turn-off.

- Reduced Sensitivity. Many men say that condoms reduce sensitivity during sex - and that’s understandable, since they create a barrier between two bodies. This may make it difficult to maintain an erection while wearing a condom during intercourse.

- Attitude. For some men, the reduction of sensitivity associated with condoms can turn them into loathed things, and a man can hardly be expected to maintain sexual arousal while dealing with something he despises.

- Poor fit. Some men find that condoms feel so tight that they are uncomfortable. In a similar vein, if a condom’s ring around the base of the penis is too tight, it can cut off circulation, which can physically interfere with erections.

Solutions
 
Fortunately, there are ways to manage the above causes of condom-associated erectile issues. Consider the following:

- Wear a rubber while masturbating. This method comes with several advantages. First, applying a condom every time a man masturbates will give him plenty of practice putting on the device, which should alleviate any concerns he might have about proper application (there are plenty of reliable resources online to teach the proper steps for putting one on). Another benefit is that it gets a man accustomed to the sensation; if he is able to achieve orgasm during solo play with a condom on, he’ll be more likely to during intercourse. Also, if a man associates rubbers with infections and pregnancy, masturbating with one on can help re-associate the device with pleasure. Finally, it makes for easy clean-up!

- Try different kinds. The condom market contains no shortage of options, including different shapes and sizes. Use a condom size chart to determine is what right for a man to eliminate issues with tightness and circulation reduction. Also, invest in samples of different shapes. Some come with roomier heads that create a more natural feel. Finally, consider trying condoms with stimulating lubricant on the inside.

- Adjust the attitude. Having pleasurable sex with a condom is absolutely possible. Cultural associations between condoms and inferior sex may be holding a man back from enjoying safe sex. Working with a sex therapist may be beneficial for men with significant negative associations, attitudes or anxiety around condom usage.

Another step men can take for optimal penile health is to use a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) on a daily basis. Sex and masturbation expose the penile skin to friction which can lead to chafing; over time, the accrued damage can cause reduced sensitivity. Man1 Man Oil contains natural moisturizers to soften the skin; it also has acetyl L-carnitine, an ingredient that protects nerves and may promote higher levels of sensitivity. Adding such a crème to a man’s repertoire, along with addressing condom-related issues, are important steps for penile health.

Condoms and Erectile Problems: A Not-So-Solid Link

Many men loathe condoms, but also understand that they are a necessary component of safe sex. And while most men can still have an enjoyable sexual experience with a barrier between their bodies and a partner’s, some find achieving and/or maintaining an erection when using a condom difficult, if not impossible. There are a number of reasons why this might be, and several things men can do about it. Since condoms are imperative to penile health, simply foregoing condoms is almost never the best option. Recent research provides a number of clues concerning what may be behind condom-associated erectile problems.

Might not be the condom
 
A recent survey of men with condom-associated erectile problems sought to examine whether condoms might really be to blame for their troubles. Researchers took a number of measures from the men, including how correctly they apply condoms, the quality and fit of the products used, their perceptions about condoms and their motivation to use protection. They found a number of correlations with erectile problems both while applying the condom and when engaging in protected intercourse which suggest that, at least for many men, the problem might not be condoms, per se.

Fit
 
Men in the study who reported difficulty staying hard both while applying a condom and when having intercourse also reported a high rate of not feeling that the condom fit "just right." There are different sizes of condoms made to accommodate a range of girths, and different shapes as well. Men should take the time to find the ones they need.

Correct application
 
The ease with which a person applies a condom correctly likely contributes to maintaining arousal and erection. Many men in the study with condom-associated erectile problems reported low self-efficacy when applying condoms, meaning the act may require more of their attention and be bound up with worry, both things that can cause a deflation in the downstairs region.

Worry/Distraction
 
It may be no surprise that men who have erectile problems while using condoms reported high levels of worry and distraction around condom use. But men with such problems also reported high rates of erectile problems when not using condoms. Condoms can become a scapegoat, and the concerns around them, a self-fulfilling prophecy. Anxiety about ability to perform is a major turn-off, and men can find themselves trapped in a cycle of erectile problems causing fears causing more erectile problems, etc. Men with general issues staying and getting hard should consult with a medical professional to consider root causes.

Sensation
 
Of course, it’s true that sex with a condom feels different, and some men just find it harder to enjoy. There are a couple things men can do, in addition to getting the right-sized condom, to increase pleasure.

First, consider going for thinner (but still reliable) brands. Kimono, for example, is an ultra-thin latex variety that is considered as reliable as thicker brands.

Second, apply a drop of lube to the reservoir tip inside the condom (remember that oil-based lubes can degrade latex, so avoid them when using latex condoms!). This will allow for a much more natural feel.

Another way guys can work toward greater sensations during sex is to use a cream with acetyl L-carnitine, which protects nerves from the damage that can occur from rough handling. A penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) with this ingredient, as well as natural moisturizers like Shea butter and vitamin E, will help keep the skin in good condition, optimizing a man’s ability to sense pleasurable feelings. In addition, taking care of skin health makes the manhood more appealing and inviting of touch, something any man along with his partner are sure to appreciate.

Condoms: Finding the Right Kind

Men who loathe condoms might not have found the one right for them. The condom market is rather sprawling, with different shapes, sizes, materials, textures and special features - there’s got to be something for everyone. Men should make an effort to learn about the many options available to them, and to consider what might turn the barrier from something they bemoan to something they either barely notice or even enjoy. Since protection is crucial for penis health, a man might as well learn to make friends with the condom.

Materials
While latex is by far the most common material used in condoms, it’s not the only one. Some men prefer one of the other materials, which are:

- Polyurethane: This material is thinner than latex, and it transfers heat better. This could result in greater pleasure for both partners. Polyurethane condoms are more expensive than standard latex ones, and the material is more brittle, making them slightly more prone to breaking. Using along with a back-up birth control method and plenty of lube is wise.

- Polyisoprene: This is a good material for people who are allergic to latex but like the feel and affordability of the material, as polyisoprene is similar in cost and feel.

- Lambskin: If the fact that they’re made out of lambs’ intestines doesn’t gross one out, these may be the most pleasurable-feeling condoms out there. However, they do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as the material is too porous. They should only be used by people for whom the risk of STIs is very low.

Sizes
The size of condom right for a man depends on his penile girth. Getting the size right is important, as condoms are prone to slipping or breaking if they’re too tight or too loose. A circumference under 4.7" generally calls for smaller sizes; a guy who measures over 5.1" around will likely have the best luck with larger condoms. Anything in between merits a regular size.

Guys who need smaller or larger condoms should be sure to carry their own; while this is a good idea in general, it’s important to remember that, even if a partner says he or she has condoms at home, they might not be what the particular guy needs.

Shapes
The standard condom works well for most guys, but men with penile girths that vary significantly from head to base may benefit from a special shape for comfort and security. Men with large heads or those whose heads are prone to get irritated by friction may prefer flared condoms, which offer extra room at the tip. Men with modestly-sized members might like the snug fit variety of condom best.

Special Features
- Lube: Many people like lubricated condoms. Not only are they more comfortable for the woman, but adequate lubrication is crucial to preventing condom breakage.

- Spermicide: Some couples like to double up on pregnancy prevention by using condoms with chemicals that kill sperm. It’s important to note that the chemicals can irritate the vagina and penis, though.
- Textures: Ribs and studs and twists, oh my! Why not give these neat textures a try?

Condoms aren’t the only things that are important to put on the penis. Guys should also be sure to use plenty of lube during their solo and partner playtime, and to keep the skin well-moisturized on a daily basis by applying a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) after showering. Shea butter and vitamin E form a moisturizing tag team, fending off dry skin and protecting the member from chafing. Keeping the skin healthy will help prevent odors, infections and loss of sensitivity - all worthy of a few moments of a man’s time a day.

Safe Sex: How to Mesh Protection with Pleasure

Why do people have sex? Most of the time, they get busy because it feels good. When two bodies are moving together, in perfect rhythm and harmony, the sensation can be remarkably pleasurable, and couples emerge from these sweaty sessions feeling unified, happy and content. But sex isn’t all about fun; it comes with risks. Each episode has the potential to cause long-term health issues. For example, people who don't use protection might spread or contract infections, and men may need extensive penis care measures to restore their health. (And don’t forget about the risk of unwanted pregnancy.) That's why safe sex with condoms is so important. These little sheaths slide right over the penis, providing a layer of protection between two bodies that are as close as possible.

Easy Solution
A basic condom is made of latex. It has a tiny receptacle at the tip for sperm, but otherwise, it's shaped like a penis. A guy can unfurl the thing while squeezing the tip and then go to town. (He should also check the date to make sure the condom has not expired, and take care not to damage it by opening the wrapper with his teeth or another sharp object.)

As a pregnancy preventer, condoms made of latex are pretty hard to beat. If they're put on properly, they block tiny swimmers from moving into a woman's body. But standard condoms do have some drawbacks. For one thing, they can be a touch thick. Some men feel like they're unable to really enjoy sex with slips on, and some people dislike the way condoms taste or the way that they smell.

Also, some people are allergic to the natural substance that's used to make latex condoms. These people might get a rash in the days following a sex session, or they might feel a burning sensation during sex. That kind of pain can simply kill a mood.

Wild Rubbers
If regular condoms don't work for a couple, there are plenty of other options. For example, some manufacturers have developed slips made of other materials, like polyurethane. These tend to be a little thinner, so a man might be able to experience more pleasure during sex.

The alterations don't stop there. In fact, there are condoms that:
- Taste like strawberries or mint
- Glow in the dark
- Warm up
- Deliver massaging sensations
- Look like tattoos

All of these products could help put the zing into sex. Even couples that have struggled with the idea of condoms in the past might be pleasantly surprised to discover the plethora of great products available, just waiting to be tested.

Post-Play Safety Steps
While experimenting with different types of condoms can be interesting and fun, men should take special care when playtime is through. That's because many of the ingredients that make condoms so interesting can be hard on the penis. Spermicides in the products can burn, dyes can irritate and flavors might cause rashes.

Keeping these problems at bay is a little easier when men remember to wash up after sex. While hopping up and running to the bathroom may not be romantic, washing quickly is one of the best ways to ensure that irritating agents don't stay in contact with the skin one second longer than they should. That could mean skipping a future sore penis episode, and that's always worthwhile.

When penile tissues are clean and dry, it's the perfect time to apply a dose of a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). The emollients will soothe hard-working tissues, leaving them smooth, soft and ready for the next roll in the hay. And there's no telltale scent or leave-behind grease involved, either. Men will simply feel clean and ready for more when the time is right.

Safe Sex IQ - The Do’s and Don’ts of Condom Use and Care

When it comes to safe sex, most men believe they can just "roll it on and go," but the truth of the matter is, there is more to safe and appropriate condom use than just sliding one on. In fact, improper condom use can actually increase the risk of unwanted pregnancy and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. Check out these simple and straightforward do’s and don’ts for using and storing condoms to ensure maximum effectiveness and protection. After all, a man can never be too careful about maintaining a healthy penis!

Condom Do’s & Don’ts
 
1. Do open the condom carefully using the easy-tear edges (the zig-zag side).
 Don’t use scissors or teeth to rip open the package, as this could tear the condom.

2. Do store condoms in a temperature-controlled, dry place.
 Don’t leave condoms in the glove box or bathroom where extreme temper
ature and humidity can damage the latex.

3. Don’t carry condoms around in a wallet as the pressure and folding on the condom can damage it.
Do check the expiration date before use and discard any that are expired.

4. Don’t ever reuse condoms - even if they appear as though no bodily fluid is in them. Once the sexual activity is over, discard the used condom in the trash can.
Do change condoms if switching between different types of sexual activity (i.e. from vaginal to anal sex) to prevent infection and the spread of E. coli.

5. Do use condoms during oral sex, as certain infections can be passed from the penis to the mouth and vice versa.
Don’t use condoms that do not fit properly. Condoms that are too loose or too tight can tear or slip off inside a partner. If the size is incorrect, purchase a different brand and size.

6. Don’t attempt to put a condom on a flaccid penis, as it is likely to fall off or fit improperly.
Do ensure there are no baggy or loose spots on the condom, smooth out any air bubbles to ensure a proper fit.

7. Don’t apply an oil- or petroleum-based lubricant to a latex condom, as it can compromise the material.
Do select a water or silicon-based lubricant, which is safe to use with latex condoms.

8. Do remove condom immediately after sex and discard.
Don’t allow the penis to become flaccid before withdrawal from one’s partner, as the condom may accidentally fall off inside.

9. Do use a condom during each and every sexual encounter.
Don’t skip the condom, ever, for any reason, except in a committed, monogamous relationship.

Other safe sex tips:

• Check which way the condom unrolls before attempting to place it on the penis. Attempting to unroll it incorrectly can cause a rip to form, in which case the condom needs to be discarded. If the condom is placed on the penis inside out at first, it should also be discarded as "pre-cum" may have gotten on that portion of the condom. Simply turning the condom around may increase the chance of pregnancy. 
• A small drop of lube placed inside the condom tip can make it easier to apply over an uncircumcised penis and reduce the chance of tearing. Only use a small amount, so that the reservoir still has room to catch semen, and only use the appropriate kind of lube based on the type of condom.
• When putting the condom on, pinch the tip of the condom shut to eliminate the air pocket before carefully rolling it down over the erect penis.
• If one or both partners has a latex allergy, try polyurethane condoms instead.
• One can often get condoms 100% free of charge at local health clinics, so the cost of obtaining condoms should never be a factor for not using them.
• To maintain proper hygiene and prevent bacterial infections, it is always a good idea to hop in the shower after sex. The combination of body fluids and lubricant can also cause itching, irritation and odor. After getting out of the shower, apply a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) containing vitamin A to keep bacteria at bay and keep the penis fresh and clean.