If condoms were discovered more than 400 years ago as history books say, then why has the fight against sexually transmitted diseases not seen a relief? There may be a host of reasons to cite but the fact remains that condoms are still not used in the way they ought to be. It may be because of some social stigma associated with it or may be due to plain disinterest and ignorance.

The Catholic Church is against the use of condoms but I would say it is always better to be safe than sorry. It would be a pity if you were faced with a pregnancy just when you didn’t want it or an illness that was transmitted from your partner. Not only does it let you down physically, the situation yields mental and emotional trauma, which is difficult to fathom.

Apart from all the experiments conducted and being conducted with male condoms, female condoms are also available in the market. These are inserted into the vagina and help prevent the ejaculated fluids from entering the female’s body. Most female condoms are made from polyurethane, a type of plastic, though some newer versions use latex or rubber.

Traditionally, it has been the duty of an elder in the family or the family physician to explain to a married couple that there is a period before and after the menstruation period when it is safe to have unprotected sex. There are other methods of contraception as well. There are the regular pills, which you have to take without missing a day and the morning-after pills, which do not guarantee anything and have a set of ifs and buts written on the covers. There is the contraceptive patch, 99% effective but which may cause allergy. Spermicides, which have to applied an hour before having sex. Well, sex cannot be planned every time, can it? These may all be options but have their advantages and disadvantages. A condom seems to be the easiest and most effective method of not only birth control but also to check against diseases.

Also, just because it is not mentioned on the cover does not mean that a condom can be used twice or used after washing. It can be disastrous. Using two condoms at the same time is also an oversight. It is not going to give any double protection.

For many, condoms mean Kama Sutra and Durex. Not only are they trusted brands, they also try and come out with variety to enhance pleasure and durability. Durex condoms come in various shapes and colors. Attractive ones are those which are textured with dots and ribs to give extra pleasure. Durex has also introduced the Comfort Fit, designed in blue and with a denim look. Not only does it look smart, it gives you the pleasure of experimenting. A favorite in the market is their super thin variety. It is so thin that you get the pleasure of having sex without the protection. Their flavored condoms not only give you a delicious feeling but also hide the smell of latex, which has been found to be offensive by some people.