|
||||
|
||||
|
||||
All materials on this website are copyrighted. Copyright © 2005-2008 by The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York. All rights reserved.
Mac users: please note that our site is optimized for the Safari browser. |
|
Condoms
| ||||||||||||
Condom sizes... how do I know what fits?
Originally Published: January 25, 2008
| ||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||
|
Dear Alice,
In my shopping and looking for condoms, I NEVER come across a formal size chart. I have been told that I was "endowed" and that I need to look toward larger sized models, but All I ever see is "snug fit," "large," and "extra large," etc. How big is big? It would be most helpful if I knew what I was buying before I actually bought it. Do you know of the sizes of some popular condoms, or of a size chart resource.
Thanks,
Dear Endowed, Well isn't that a lovely little (er, big) quandary to have! There does seem to be a lack of information about the sizes of condoms, but don't fear, you too can find a condom that fits. And a good fit can't be under-estimated: a poorly-fitting condom can undermine its effectiveness in preventing STIs and pregnancy, as well as interfere with the pleasure and sensations for both partners during sex. First, penis size. The most common penis length falls somewhere around six inches when erect; anywhere from five to seven inches when erect is considered typical. Condoms are meant to have a little extra space at the tip to allow room for ejaculate. Research findings regarding condom size, penis size, and breakage and slippage rates have been mixed. While it is certain that condoms can strech to many times their normal size (just try having a condom water balloon fight and you'll end up carrying balloons as big as watermelons), some studies have found that men with larger penises experience condom breakage more frequently than men with typical- or smaller-sized penises (others studies show that breakage rates are the same regardless of penis size). In addition, if a condom is too short, some STIs could be transmitted between the exposed part of the penis and the partner. Penis girth also affects how a condom fits. The average penis girth (circumference) is 4.5 to 5 inches. If your girth is above average, a standard sized condom might feel uncomfortably tight and the larger sized condoms could be appropriate for you. For readers whose penis length or girth is less than average, it's important to note that standard condoms could simply fall off during sex. Snug fit condoms, which are a bit, well, snugger, are a good option for these fellows. Condom manufacturers may have once catered only to "average" size men; however, these days condoms come in many shapes and sizes. Here is a chart that gives some common measurements for different size condoms:
As you can see, a condom that is called "large" may in fact have the same dimensions as another brand's standard-fit. Different condom manufactures use slightly different measurements and have a number of shapes available, so you may want to try a few condoms on for size to which is most comfortable. Custom-made condoms do exist and are available on the internet, by mail, or at a sexuality specialty shop. Check out this Condom Wizard to learn about condom shapes, sizes, textures and more. To find out "how big is big" or where you fall along the penis size continuum, you can measure your erect penis to know for sure. Or for even more fun, have a partner do it! Measure your length from the tip of the head along the upper side of the shaft to the point where the penis joins the body. For girth, measure the penis circumference at the widest point using a tape measure or a piece of string. As you probably are aware, condoms are the best way to prevent against STIs as well as a reliable pregnancy prevention method. No matter the size of your penis you should be able to find a condom that fits you well, that will keep you and your partner protected, and allow all the pleasures of sex to thrive! Enjoy and good luck.
Related Q&As
| ||||||||||||
Go Ask Alice! is not an emergency or instant response service.