In your local supermarket or drugstore, the male condom selection can be very overwhelming. Super thin, ribbed, non-lubricated, twisted tip -- does it really make a difference, or are they just gimmicks to make you spend more of your hard-earned cash?
When asked about the difference, Allison Beaver, assistant director of health promotion at Student Health, said the center does not endorse any particular type.
"Student Health does not recommend a certain brand of condom," she said. "What we recommend depends on what the student prefers."
When pressed about whether or not colors, flavors or textures make a difference, Beaver said, "Color and flavor do not decrease a condom's overall safety unless it says so on the package."
Student Health does not carry information concerning whether the different types of condoms actually enhance performance or pleasure.
Five couples lent their input on the best and worst of the condom industry in an informal poll, offering their thoughts on seven of the most interesting condoms: Ultimate Feeling, Intense Sensation and Avanti (Durex), Twisted Pleasure and Magnum (Trojan), Lifestyles' Discs and the new Inspiral.
By far the most bizarre condoms were the similarly designed Trojan Twisted Pleasure and Inspiral. The Inspiral package describes this condom as having "beautiful, bold seashell-like curves that move in a patented 'spiral-action.'" The drawing of the condom on the back of the package made it look like a drill bit, when in fact the condom looked normal.
All females who surveyed the Inspiral reported feeling a twisting sensation which increased their tendency to orgasm. However, reactions to the Trojan variety were generally neutral for the females and unpleasant for the males due to the thickness and tightness of the condom.
The Trojan Magnum may be the answer for males who find normal condoms too tight. According to the males surveyed, the Magnum was the most comfortable and least intrusive. Although the condoms are significantly longer and just a little wider, guys of average to larger sizes should give these a try. Just be careful that it doesn't slip off and defeat the whole purpose.
Lifestyles' Discs should be termed "the condom for dummies." Its position in the capsule-like package allows the male to easily discern which way to put it on. Extra points for the bold colors and taste
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