Condom History | Condom Production | Your Health and Guidelines for Safer Sex
Questions & Answers | Handy Tips | Excuse Answers | Useful Links

Condom usage can be traced back to Ancient Egypt. From that time the condom has protected man from disease and infection. The earliest evidence of condom use in Europe is scenes from cave paintings at Combarelles in France and Greece, It is said that in 1200 BC, Minos, the King of Crete, used condoms made from goats' bladders.

The modern story begins, not surprisingly, with Christopher Columbus. When he returned to Barcelona from his celebrated discovery of the West Indies in 1493, he didn't only have exciting stories, gold and jewellery from the new world on board! One not so pleasant little souvenir was first made public later, a secret illness, which according to the rumours was triggered by his crew. Syphilis, cynically known as "a present from the new world" or "revenge of the natives", rapidly spread over the whole of Europe, India and as far as China.

The Italian doctor and anatomist Gabriele Fallopio discovered one of the first protection methods against the fatal infection. In his book from 1564, "De morbe gallico" he recommended wearing a small cloth bag soaked in medicines and inorganic salts when having sexual intercourse.

Whether the story of the origin can really be traced back to Gabriele Fallopio, we don't know. Also as the story of the origin of the contraceptive is unclear, so is the creation of the word "condom". Was it the Latin term "condus" (container) or the English doctor Dr. Condom, who essentially gave the name to the contraceptive? If it was the doctor then it makes for a better story.

Dr. Condom served the British king Charles II (1660-1685). The king always craved pleasure and fathered many, many children. His doctor, Dr. Condom eventually tried to use ram's intestines as a contraceptive to prevent any further children. This type of condom became well known and increased in popularity. Literature of the 1700s suggests that the condom's contraceptive (rather than just prophylactic) properties had already been realised. By 1766 many shops were producing handbills and advertisements.

The revolutionary rubber vulcanisation process invented by Goodyear and Hancock made it possible to mass-produce more reliable and less expensive products, including condoms. Vulcanisation is the method or process of treating crude rubber with sulphur and subjecting it to intense heat. This process turns the rubber into a strong elastic material.

Liquid latex manufacturing superseded the melting and moulding of crepe rubber sheets, and it is still the basis for manufacture today.

New technology has considerably improved the condom and enabled the production of far more sophisticated versions than our ancestors were used to.

Back to top

"Rubbers" are called rubbers because they are actually made of natural latex rubber.

The journey of a condom usually starts in South-East Asia, and begins with the collection of natural latex rubber, this substance found in several plants, but particularly, and not surprisingly in the rubber trees which are cultivated in Asia. The white milky juice is "tapped" from the bark rubber trees, and its quality is then carefully evaluated and processed using today's complicated technical procedures.

From latex trees in East Asia to customers worldwide in 11 steps:
1. A strictly secret latex mix, the basis of the condom production is prepared.
2. The mix matures reaches the required quality levels after several days of ripening and hours of stirring.
3. The matured mix is passed through to the dipping tank.
4. Glass forms / bulbs (in the shape of the condom you want to make) are fastened to an endless chain, run one after another through the dipping tank and receive a thin latex film.
5. Rotating brushes form a bead at the open end of the drying semi-processed condoms.
6. The famous rolling opening is then added before the condoms go through a vulcanisation zone. The condoms are vulcanised for about 20 minutes at a temperature of over 100 degrees celsius. This process, otherwise known as "baking", is what gives the condoms their elasticity.
7. The condoms go into a hot soapy water bath, which enables the condoms to be wiped from the glass formers and also remove any chemicals that may still be on the latex. It also washes the glass clean to start the process from Step 4.
8. The still wet condoms are taken to the "condom washing machines" where the condoms are "washed" with skin friendly powder, which again removes any residue of chemical that may be left from the previous process.
9. Every single condom must then be electronically tested, by putting them on a metal phallic shaped mandrill, and allowing a metal brush to run around the outside of the condom. If a hole is present an electrical circuit is made and the condom is rejected automatically.
10. Next the condoms are sent to the foiling machine, which seals the tested condoms. Here the condoms also receive a lubricated coating, and is also where flavours can be added along with other chemicals such as spermicide or benzocaine.
11. Further tests are made, this time checking, burst pressure, burst volume, density and stretch resistance.
12. The condoms are then rolled and sealed and ready to be put into airproof foil or plastic packaging for the customers needs.
Before the condoms leave the factory packed a final check is done to ensure you get the best condoms in the world.

Back to top

Condoms were legally defined as medical products in 1995. Condoms have no side-effects because they do not penetrate into the organism. In rare cases, such as latex allergies, they can lead to unpleasant reactions.

Preventing Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually Transmitted Infections may be passed from one person to another through any activity which involves the exchange of body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and discharges from sores caused by STIs). These include: sexual intercourse, vaginal, oral or anal sex close sexual contact mother to baby transmission during pregnancy and/or childbirth injecting drugs.

There are more than 50 known STIs which can be passed on through sex. The most significant STIs are genital herpes, genital warts, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, Hepatitis B, syphillis and HIV (the virus that leads to AIDS).

You are at risk of getting an STI when: you are starting a new sexual relationship you or your partner has more than one sexual partner, you or your partner share sex aids such as dildos or vibrators you or your partner inject drugs and share needles or other injecting equipment Important facts about sexually transmitted infections you can't tell by looking at a person if they have an STI not all STIs have symptoms you can have an STI and pass it on without knowing it an STI won't go away without treatment most STIs can be treated or cured. Sexually Transmitted Infections are known to cause infertility, illness or death.

Sexually Transmitted Infections:

STIs can cause infertility, illness or death

Enjoy safer sex and avoid STIs

Use condoms every time you have vaginal or anal intercourse.

Use dental dams or condoms during oral sex.

Use only water based lubricants (e.g. l:ub, Wet Stuff, KY Jelly,). Oil or petroleum based products (e.g. Vaseline or baby oil) can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break.

Use condoms to cover sex aids such as vibrators and dildos.

Remember

You can have an STI and pass it on without knowing it an STI won't go away without treatment most STIs can be treated or cured.

Early diagnosis of an STI is important to avoid serious complications and so you don't pass it on to others.

Get tested Don't wait for symptoms.

Don't be embarrassed to ask for a test - anyone can get an STI.

Male Health
In this section of the site we have aimed to cover illnesses and problems we believe to be the most frequent in men.

Men are less likely to visit their doctor or know about their bodies than women.

Most men only end up in a doctor's office because they were forced to by partners or loved ones or because the stomach pain, backache became unbearable and wouldn't go away. Most men will look after their car better than what they look after themselves. When did your car last have a check up and when did you?

Statistics show that men's health has become a matter of serious concern especially when women are living longer than men.

Men usually believe they are less at risk to disease and injury than women. The male population are raised believing it's a good thing to be tough. Men tend to hide feelings and put on a brave face - which often includes ignoring pain. Perhaps men feel that they can't afford to be ill because of work pressures, money worries or even their family commitments. If they complain of any ailment or illness they often believe it is a sign of weakness.

There are three main types of cancer that can affect men only, and they are prostate, penile and testicular, all of which can be cured when caught in the early stages. Men should become aware of their bodies so any changes can be noticed quickly and advice given if needed. If you happen to find a lump it is most likely to be benign (non-canerous). A common lump in the skin is a sebaceous cyst, you can get this anywhere and is painless unless it becomes infected. Another common lump is a lipoma, which is filled with fat, this lump is again harmless and needs no surgery. If a lump appears at the top of the thigh or next to the scrotum this can be a hernia and if causing pain will need treating. However, some lumps can be cancerous so you should always visit your doctor for advice.

Good health depends greatly on our lifestyles, what we eat and how much exercise we get. A balanced diet is essential to good health and keeping cholesterol levels down. However, it is also very important to have regular check-ups either at your doctors or a well man clinic. Ask your doctor where your nearest well mans clinic is located.

A well man's clinic aims to increase the importance of male related health issues. The clinic will usually carry out tests for cholesterol, high blood pressure and monitor your weight. They also offer screening and support for more sensitive issues such as infertility, contraception and male only cancers.

For the ladies - common misconceptions
If you are a woman and you think it's up to him...it's his decision...
Well, it's your health too. It should be your decision too!

Why You Need To Use Condoms

Condoms are the only contraceptive that helps prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HIV when used properly and consistently. Condoms do Work! Proper use of condoms reduces the risk of other sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, chancroid, trichomoniasis, HPV, herpes, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Condoms can also protect against vaginitis caused by trichomoniasis or changes in the pH balance of the vagina that can be triggered by semen.

Condoms are one of the most reliable methods of birth control when use properly and consistently.

Condoms have none of the medical side-effects of some other birth control methods may have.

Condoms are available in various shapes, colours, flavours, textures and sizes- to increase the fun of making love with condoms.

Condoms are widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets and convenience stores. You don't need a prescription or have to visit a doctor.

Condoms make sex less messy.

Condoms are user friendly. With a little practice, they can also add confidence to the enjoyment of sex.

Condoms are only needed when you are having sex unlike some other contraceptives which require you to take all of the time.

Condoms are sheaths of thin latex or plastic worn on the penis during intercourse. And they are available dry or lubricated.

Condoms collect semen before, during, and after a man ejaculates ("comes"). This can keep sperm from entering the vagina. Condoms protect both partners during vaginal and anal sex from sexually transmitted infection. Latex condoms offer very good protection against HIV

The risk of passing a sexually transmitted infection during oral sex is lower than it is during vaginal or anal intercourse. People who want to further reduce the risk can use condoms during oral sex.

Hormonal, intrauterine, and surgical methods of birth control offer greater protection against pregnancy than condoms, but no protection against sexually transmitted infections. Many people use latex condoms along with another method for the best protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

www.smartpaddy.ie 10 Golden Steps towards a healthy, fulfilling sexual partnership.

To respect your sexual partner you should:

Always have each other's consent.

Never use pressure to get consent.

Be honest with each other.

Treat each other as equals.

Be attentive to each other's pleasure.

Protect each other against physical and emotional harm.

Guard against unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection.

Be clear with each other about what you want to do and don't want to do.

Respect each other's limits.

Accept responsibility for your actions.

Please read manufacturers information inlay sheet before use of any condom.

Choosing the right condom
The first thing to look for before using a condom is the expiration date on the box or foil. If it is out of date, if the condom is torn, brittle, stiff, or sticky, DO NOT USE IT, throw it away and use another.

Look to see if the condoms packs have the required CE quality mark or other quality marks like the British Standards Kite Mark or The German DLF quality mark, these marks show the condom is top quality. All condoms sold on www.smartpaddy.ie carry these quality marks.
A number of different types of condom are now available. What is generally called a condom is the 'male' condom, a sheath or covering which fits over a man's penis, and which is closed at one end.
All of the differences in shape are designed to suit different personal preferences and enhance pleasure. It is important to communicate with your partner to be sure that you are using condoms that satisfy both of you.
Some condoms are flavoured to make oral sex more enjoyable

Removal and disposal of condoms after use
When you have finished your love making, but before the penis softens, hold the condom against the base of the penis while you pull out and withdraw penis and condom from your partner.

Don't spill the semen, stop any semen touching your partner. Take the condoms off, and put it in the rubbish bin wrapped in some tissue. Look after your environment; do not flush the used condom down the toilet.

Wash the penis with soap and water before embracing again.

If a Condom breaks during intercourse, pull out immediately and replace it. Men should be able to tell if a condom breaks during intercourse. To learn what it feels like, men can break condoms on purpose while masturbating.

If semen does leak out, wash the semen away with soap and water.

If semen leaks into the vagina during a woman's fertile period, ask your General practitioner or another reproductive health clinician for information about starting emergency contraception within 72 hours.

Storing Condoms
Condoms should be stored in a in a cool, dry place. Long exposure to air, heat, and light makes them more breakable. Do not stash them continually in a back pocket, wallet, or glove compartment. Properly stored condoms have a shelf life of up to five years.

Back to top

Q: When should I use a condom?
A: Whenever you want to minimise the risk of pregnancy and/or transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during sexual activity. Although not as effective as other forms of contraceptive condoms are the only form of protection which can both help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV and prevent pregnancy.
Sexual activity also includes oral sex - some STIs such as chlamydia, herpes and gonorrhoea can be transmitted during oral sex as well as during penetrative sex.
Never use the same condom twice. Put the condom on after the penis is erect and before any contact is made between the penis and any part of the partner's body. If you go from anal intercourse to vaginal intercourse, you should change the condom.

Q: How effective is a condom in preventing pregnancy?
A: A correctly used male condom is generally considered to be about 95% effective. If you wish to increase protection further you should consider using the condom in conjunction with spermicide (a chemical that kills sperm). Spermicides usually come in the form of a foam, cream or gel, and some are also effective against the HIV virus. Certain types of condom come ready-coated in a spermicidal lubricant. A condom used in conjunction with a spermicide is considered to be 96-97% effective.
Condoms can be used in conjunction with another method of contraception (eg. the contraceptive pill). The pill is considered to be 99% effective on its own however it offers no protection against the transmission of STIs.

If used properly, a condom is very effective. During laboratory tests, latex condoms are very effective at blocking transmission of HIV because the pores in latex condoms are too small to allow the virus to pass through. However, outside of the laboratory condoms are less effective because people do not always use condoms properly.

Please read manufacturers information inlay sheet before use of any condom.

Q: What shape of condom should I choose? Why are some condoms flavoured?
A: It's really up to you which to choose. All of the differences in shape are designed to suit different personal preferences and enhance pleasure. It is important to communicate with your partner to be sure that you are using condoms that satisfy both of you.
Some condoms are flavoured to make oral sex more enjoyable.

Q: What about the condom size?
A: Condoms are made in different lengths and widths, and different manufacturers produce varying sizes.
There is no standard length for condoms.
The width of a condom can also vary. Some condoms have a slightly smaller width to give a "closer" fit, whereas others will be slightly larger. Condom makers have realised that different lengths and widths are needed and are increasingly broadening their range of sizes.
The brand names will be different in each country, so you will need to do your own investigation of different names. There is no particular best brand of condom

Q: When should a condom be put on?
A: You should put on the condom before there is any contact between the penis and the partner's body. Fluid containing sperm and organisms that cause STIs can be released in the early stages of an erection. The penis must be erect before a condom can be fitted correctly.

Q: What do you do if the condom won't unroll?
A: The condom should unroll smoothly and easily from the rim on the outside. If you have to struggle or if it takes more than a few seconds, it probably means that you are trying to put the condom on upside down. To take off the condom, don't try to roll it back up. Hold it near the rim and slide it off. Then start again with a new condom.

Q: When and how do you take off the condom?
A: Pull out before the penis softens, and hold the condom against the base of the penis while you pull out, so that the semen doesn't spill. Condom should be disposed properly for example wrapping it in a tissue and throwing it away. It's not good to flush condoms down the toilet - they're bad for the environment.

Q: What do you do if a condom breaks?
A: If a condom breaks during sexual intercourse, then pull out quickly and replace the condom. While you are having sex you should check your condom from time to time, just to make sure it hasn't split or slipped off. If the condom has broken and you feel that semen has come out of the condom during sex, you really should consider getting emergency contraception such as the morning after pill from your GP or family planning clinic.

Q: Are there special condoms recommended for anal intercourse?
A: More strain can be placed on the condom during anal intercourse more, so it is sensible to use stronger condoms and plenty of lubricant. But remember, if you can't get hold of a strong condom then a normal condom is better than no condom.

Q: What’s this about these polyurethane condoms?
A: Polyurethane condoms are thinner than latex condoms, and so they increase sensitivity and are more agreeable in feel and appearance to some users. But a disadvantage is that they are slightly more likely to break than latex condoms and they are often more expensive. They are helpful to the very small number of people who are allergic to latex. also, water or oil-based lubricants can be used with polyurethane condoms.

Q: How can I persuade my partner that we should use a condom?
A: It can be difficult to talk about using condoms. But you shouldn't let embarrassment become a health risk. The person you are thinking about having sex with may not agree at first when you say that you want to use a condom when you have sex. These are some comments that might be made and some answers that you could try..
There may be times where you find yourself in a difficult and awkward situation, for those times remember that it is your right to choose, it is your right to speak your mind!
Perhaps you have come across one of the scenarios below, if so and you are presented with a difficult question from your intended partner...We give you some excuse answers which may come in useful...

Q: What are condoms made of, and what shapes are there?
A: Condoms are usually made out of latex or polyurethane. If possible, you should use a latex condom, as these are the most effective against viruses such as HIV, and in most countries, they are the type most readily available.
Condoms come in a variety of shapes. The majority have a reservoir tip although some can have a plain tip. Condoms may be regular shaped (with straight sides), form fit (indented just below the glans or "head" of the penis), or they may be flared (wider over the glans).
To increase sensation for both partners some people like to use ribbed condoms which are textured with ribs or bumps, Condoms also come in a variety of flavours and colours.
Condoms, which have been properly tested and approved, carry the British Standard Kite Mark or the EEC Standard Mark (CE). In the USA, condoms should be FDA approved, and elsewhere in the world, they should be ISO approved.
The lubrication on condoms also varies. Some condoms are not lubricated at all, some are lubricated with a silicone substance, and some condoms have a water-based lubricant. The lubrication on condoms aims to make the condom easier to put on and more comfortable to use. Some lubricated condoms are also available with a spermicide (Nonoxynol 9) added. A spermicidal lubricant also aims to provide an additional level of protection if some semen happens to leak out of the condom. This can help to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. For some people the use of Nonoxynol 9 can cause an allergic reaction. This can then result in little sores, which can actually make the transmission of HIV more likely. Nonoxynol 9 is a suitable spermicide only for women who are HIV-negative and are at low risk of exposure to HIV or other STD's, and only used for vaginal sex.

Q: If I need extra lubrication what should I use?
A: Do not use oils or Vaseline with your condoms.
If condoms come in contact with oils, such as baby oil, butter, margarine, Vaseline, or yes engine oil, they will quickly become porous and can tear. In the case that additional lubrication is required, a non oil-based lubricant is recommended. Please see our lubricants section for a wide range of water based, condom friendly lubricants.

Q: What is the age of consent for sexual activity in Ireland?
A: The legal age at which a person is currently competent to consent to sexual intercourse is currently seventeen (17) years.

How to use a condom summary:
1. Pull back the foreskin, unless circumcised, before rolling on the condom.
2. Place the rolled condom over the tip of the hard penis.
3. Leave a half-inch space at the tip to collect semen.
4. Pinch the air out of the tip with one hand while placing it on the penis.
5. Unroll the condom over the penis with the other hand.
6. Roll it all the way down to the base of the penis.
7. Smooth out any air bubbles. (Friction against air bubbles can cause condom breaks.)

Here are also some tips that can help you to feel more confident and relaxed about using condoms.

Keep condoms close at all times. If things start getting steamy- you'll always be ready.

It not a good idea to find yourself having to rush out at the crucial moment to buy condoms- at the height of the passion, you may not want this interruption so may take a chance that could put your health at risk.

When you buy condoms, don't get embarrassed. If anything, be proud. It shows that you are responsible and confident and when the time comes it will all be worthwhile. It can be more fun to go shopping for condoms with your partner or friend. Nowadays, it is also easy to buy condoms discreetly on the internet.

Talking with your partner about using a condom before having sex removes anxiety and embarrassment. Knowing where you both stand before the passion starts will make you lot more confident/ that you both agree and are happy about using a condom, will make you both lot more confident.

If you are new to condoms, the best way to learn how to use them is to practice putting them on by yourself or your partner. It does not take long to become a master.

If you feel that condoms interrupt your passion, then try introducing condoms into your lovemaking. It can be really sexy if your partner helps you put it on or you do it together.

All information given to health care professionals is confidential. For the treatment or diagnosis of any medical condition, consultation with a doctor is strongly recommended.

Back to top

There are times when we are faced with difficult scenario. Sometimes our partners are reluctant to wear condoms. If so, and you are presented with a difficult question from your intended sexual partner see below for some excuse answers which may come in useful...

If he/she says: But, don't you trust me?
You can say: People can have infections without realising it. Trust isn't the point.

If he/she says: But it does not feel as good with a condom
You can say: I'll feel more relaxed and if I am more relaxed, I can make it feel better for both of us.

If he/she says: I don't stay hard when I put on a condom.
You can say: I'll help you put it on, that will help you keep it hard.

If he/she says: I don't have a condom with me.
You can say: That’s ok, I do.

If you feel: I am afraid to ask him to use a condom. He'll think I don't trust him.
This means: If you can't ask him, you probably don't trust him enough to have sex.

If he/she says: I don't stay hard when I put on a condom.
You can say: I'll help you put it on, that will help you keep it.

If she says: I'm on the pill, you don't need a condom.
You can say: I'd like to use it anyway. It will help to protect us from infections we may not realise we have.

If he/she says: It just isn't as sensitive and I can't feel a thing when I wear a condom.
You can say: Maybe that way you will last even longer and that will make up for it.

If he/she says: Putting it on interrupts everything.
You can say: Not if I help put it on, wouldn’t that be fun?

If he/she says: I guess you don't really love me?
You can say: I do love you, but I am not risking my future to prove it.

If he says: I will pull out in time.
You can say: Women can get pregnant & STDs from pre-ejaculate so let’s not chance it.

If he/she says: But I love you.
You can say: Then you'll help us to protect ourselves.

If he/she says: Just this once.
You can say: Once is all it takes.

Back to top

www.ifpa.ie
The Irish Family Planning Association

www.parentline.ie
Irish Parent Line

www.doh.ie
Department of Health Ireland

www.whc.ie
Women's Health Council

www.positiveoptions.ie
Positive options website. Alternatively, free text the word "list" to 50444

www.ndsc.ie
National Disease Surveillance Center

www.gov.ie/healthboards.htm
Health Boards of Ireland

www.womensaid.ie
Women's Aid

www.hivireland.ie
An on-line directory that gives information and referral tools for professionals working in the field of HIV and Sexual Health, and for HIV positive individuals, supplying clear and accurate information on services available.

www.crisispregnancy.ie
The Crisis Pregnancy Agency (CPA) is a planning and co-ordinating body established to formulate and implement a strategy to address the issue of crisis pregnancy in Ireland through:
(a) a reduction in the number of crisis pregnancies by the provision of education, advice and contraceptive services
(b) a reduction in the number of women with crisis pregnancies who opt for abortion by offering services and supports which make other options more attractive
(c) the provision of counselling and medical services after crisis pregnancy

www.mygp.ie
Website that provides access to health related resources and educational information on health issues.

www.irishhealth.com
Health website that provides news and general educational information on health related issues.

Samaritans
Provides confidential and emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair including those which may lead to suicide. Phone 1850-609-090.

Drugs / HIV Help-line
A free, confidential help-line on issues relating to sexual health, drug misuse & HIV. Phone 1800-459-459.

Back to top