How To Know What Size Condom You Need

We don't need to tell y'all that using a safety is one of the best ways to practice safer sex.

Not merely do condoms assist protect you from unplanned pregnancy if you're having penis-in-vagina sex, but when used correctly, they're besides ane of the but forms of birth command that will keep you safe from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), any sexual activity you're having. (Just a note: This commodity will focus on male person or external safety sizing, but you can find data most internal condoms in our guide to safer LGBTQ+ sex activity here.)

Lots of people also prefer condoms to long-acting reversible contraception, such as the implant or an IUD, because they're non-hormonal and only demand to be used in the moment.

But did you know male condoms are available in three different sizes: snug, regular, and big? And fit actually matters? Let'southward deep dive into condom sizing then you lot know what to buy.

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Why condom size matters

Although selecting the right size of condom might not seem like a priority when you're ordering online or stocking upwardly at the supermarket or chemist's shop, fit is actually really important.

In guild for a condom to do its job properly, information technology needs to exist the right size. Condoms that are likewise loose are more likely to slip off during sex, while condoms that are as well tight could break more than easily. That puts you at a greater adventure of unplanned pregnancy or STIs.

How condom sizes work

So, you know you lot and your partner demand a condom, merely how are you supposed to know what size prophylactic to purchase?

The only real way to figure out what rubber size yous need is to measure your partner's penis when it's erect, which might seem a little embarrassing or strange to begin with, but remember the outcome is going to help keep y'all both protected from STIs and unplanned pregnancies.

Penises come in all different shapes and sizes, so there are two important measurements to take into account when it comes to condom sizing: girth and length.

Length: Hold a ruler confronting the pubic os (find it at the front of the pelvis) while erect and mensurate from the base to the tip of the penis.
Girth: Take a flexible measuring tape and measure effectually the thickest portion of the cock penis. If you don't have a flexible measuring tape, wrap a piece of string around the penis. Marker the spot where the cord crosses, and and so measure the length of the string with a ruler.

You could as well try an online condom size calculator. These calculators provide a general condom size guide and tin can decide exactly which types of condoms volition fit best. Many of these calculators can even recommend specific condoms according to your ideal condom size.

What's the average penis size?

You've probably heard that the average erect penis length is around half dozen inches. Just a recent study has challenged this widely held wisdom.

Researchers at the Section of Psychology at Clemson University in the U.s.a. looked at the combined hateful of ten studies where penis length measurements were taken by health professionals rather than the participants themselves. They plant that the average penis was actually 5.1 to 5.5 inches long (usually at the lower end), rather than the average 6-inch measurement that men cocky-reported in previous studies. Social desirability bias could have influenced the earlier results, the experts concluded.

Nosotros also know that the average penis circumference is 11.66 centimeters or four.5 inches, thanks to a British study that measured the flaccid and erect penises of 15,521 men.

That said, all penises are slightly different then it's important to measure your partner's penis advisedly before ownership condoms.

Condom sizes chart

Once you lot and your partner take the right measurements, yous can use them to work out which size condom to buy and use. There are three different sizes of condoms, and yous tin purchase them from supermarkets, pharmacies, sexual activity shops, or online. Remember that condom sizes can vary from brand to make, so check their websites for the latest information.

Snug fit condoms

Condoms labeled "snug fit" are best for a penis that is shorter than the average length of 5.1 to 5.5 inches (thirteen to fourteen centimeters) and girth of 4.v inches (around 12 centimeters) when erect.

Regular fit condoms

Most condoms are made for the average size range (in a higher place) and are labeled "regular fit." Snug condoms can exist used for added awareness and pleasure if the penis is on the shorter end of average just if your partner says it feels too tight, information technology's meliorate to stick to regular ones.

Big condoms

Large condoms are usually effectually vii.v to 8.5 inches (xix to 21.five centimeters) long and are appropriate for penises that are above-average length.

Other things to consider when buying condoms

Once you lot and your partner have worked out what size safety you need, there are a few other factors to consider, including the cloth of the prophylactic, wheather it's lubricated, and if in that location'due south anything additional that can affect how pleasurable sex is for you. For example, some people prefer the sensation of ribbed condoms, while others might similar flavored condoms for use during oral sexual practice.

Material

Most condoms are fabricated of thin latex that provides an effective barrier confronting fifty-fifty the smallest pathogens. This works for near people, but if y'all or your partner are allergic to latex, you'll need to find a different material. Other materials condoms are made from include:

Polyurethane: These are thinner and conduct heat amend, so they're a popular choice for people who like to feel an increased sensation.
Lambskin: These are made from a membrane establish in sheep's intestines. They are super thin, and so they don't provide protection from STIs, which is why they should merely be used by people who are certain of their STI status and want to prevent pregnancy.
Polyisoprene: This is similar to latex, but it doesn't contain the chemic compounds that cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Lubrication

Many condoms are pre-lubricated and some even produce boosted sensations, such as heat or cold. Just steer clear of oil–based lubricants if you're using latex condoms, because the oil can dethrone the latex and lead to safety breakage. Cull silicone or h2o–based lubricants instead.

Thickness, texture, and shape

Thinner condoms usually increase sensitivity during sex because the sensation is more intense. Some condoms come up with textured surfaces and shapes that are designed to increase pleasance for y'all both.

Whatever your preference, just be sure to buy condoms from a reputable brand that prioritizes both effectiveness and pleasure. That mode y'all tin have satisfying sex knowing you're protected.

Condom sizes: The takeaway

Condoms are the best way to protect yourself confronting both STIs and pregnancy, but a condom needs to be a skillful fit in order to make certain it'due south going to be as effective as possible.

Thankfully, condom sizing is relatively easy to figure out one time you lot have some measurements. Later that, you can experiment with materials and textures to accept a actually positive sexual practice experience with your partner.