What is Condom? How to use Condom? Benefits & Size Chart

Condoms aren’t just a bedroom accessory, they’re a cultural icon, a health essential, and, frankly, a bit of a misunderstood genius. In India, where sex talk still tiptoes around tradition, they’re both a lifeline and a lightning rod. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, this isn’t your schoolteacher’s lecture. It’s a full-on exploration of how condoms work, why they matter, and what’s new in the game. From sizing to stigma, myths to materials, we’ve got you covered, literally.

This article will help you understand the importance of having safe sex using a condom. Also, I’ve mentioned different types of condoms available online and the best condom brands in India.

Condom Meaning

A condom (sometimes misspelled as Kondom) is a protective barrier device that is designed to prevent females from the probability of getting pregnant by blocking the sperm from reaching the urethra and fertilizing the eggs and both males & females from STDs during sexual intercourse.

There are both male and female condoms.

Contraception was the main reason for condom invention.

Condom meaning in Hindi

कंडोम एक सुरक्षात्मक बाधा उपकरण है जो शुक्राणुओं को मूत्रमार्ग तक पहुंचने और अंडे को उर्वरक और यौन संभोग के दौरान एसटीडी से पुरुषों और महिलाओं दोनों को उर्वरक से गर्भवती होने की संभावना से महिलाओं को रोकने के लिए डिज़ाइन किया गया है।
नर और मादा कंडोम दोनों हैं।

What Is a Condom, Anyway?

A condom is your personal bodyguard for sex, a thin sheath, usually latex, that slips over a penis (or inside a vagina for female versions) to block sperm, STIs, and stress. The concept’s ancient—think 16th-century linen tied with ribbons, but today’s models are high-tech marvels. Latex dominates, stretching up to 800% without snapping, though alternatives like polyurethane and lambskin cater to the latex-averse. They’re cheap, portable, and, per the World Health Organization (WHO), a cornerstone of global health initiatives [WHO, 2023].

What are condoms used for?

There are two primary uses for a Condom:

Birth Control

It is used to reduce the chances of getting pregnant (pregnancy) during lovemaking.

Prevention of STDs

They are effective in preventing Sexually transmitted infections like  AIDS, genital herpes, cervical cancer, genital warts, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, etc., in both males & females from spreading.

Condom effectiveness

A condom is safe to use.

The rate of breakage is between 0.4% and 2.3%, while the rate of slippage is between 0.6% and 1.3%.

According to a study, the chances of getting pregnant are a 2% per-year pregnancy rate.

With typical use, the rate of pregnancy is 18% per year.

Cultural Attitudes Toward Condom Use in India

India’s a patchwork of condom vibes. Urban centers like Mumbai and Delhi see 60% regular use among men 18-34, per a 2023 National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). Rural areas? Less rosy—taboos label them “sinful” or “unmanly.”

“My village elders think condoms are for prostitutes,” says Ravi, 25, from Uttar Pradesh.

Yet Bollywood’s condom ads (think Durex’s cheeky campaigns) and NGO drives are shifting gears.

Education’s the X-factor—schools lag, but awareness rises. Compare that to Japan’s 80% uptake or the U.S.’s 33%—India’s climbing, but culture’s the brake.

Side Effects of Using Condoms

Condoms are safe for 99% of users, but perfection’s a myth. Breakage strikes 0.4% to 2.3% of the time, usually from rough handling or expired stock, while slippage hits 0.6% to 1.3% [CDC, 2023]. Latex allergies are the real buzzkill, ranging from mild redness to rare anaphylaxis. Alternatives save the day:

• Polyurethane: Thin as a whisper, heat-conductive, and hypoallergenic, pricey but worth it.
• Polyisoprene: Latex’s kinder cousin, soft and stretchy without the itch.
• Lambskin: Made from sheep intestine, it’s a natural contraceptive, but STIs slip through.

Spermicides like nonoxynol-9, found in some condoms, can irritate sensitive skin, too. “I ditched spermicidal ones after constant discomfort,” says Priya, 29, from Mumbai. “Polyisoprene’s my holy grail now.” Swap to plain lubricated condoms if you’re in the same boat.

11 Different Types of Condoms You didn’t know about

I bet you didn’t know that there are several types of condoms available online. I was shocked too when I found out while searching for information on this topic.

And one more thing, you’ll laugh at when you see the number 11 type..

Well, then have a look!

1. LaTeX

Most condoms are made up of latex, which is extracted from rubber. Latex is used because it has outstanding elastic properties.

It can be stretched up to 800%. That’s massive.

2. Non-latex

Non-latex ones are made from polyurethane. They are considered safer than latex ones. It’s less allergenic than latex and does not have any odor.

3. Lambskin

As the name suggests, they are made from lamb intestine, not skin.

They are quite effective as a contraceptive, but not safe enough to stop the transmission of STDs.

4. Spermicidal

They are made from latex only but have nonoxynol-9, a spermicidal chemical, as a lubricant. They have an additional benefit.

5. Female condoms

Designed for females, this is not so protective and can lead to pregnancy, 30-35 out of 100 females who use them.

One benefit is that it can occur during the menstrual cycle.

One can also wear it up to 8 hours before sex.

6. Lubricated condoms

Normal condoms are lubricated with a special chemical, mainly a water-based solution, to make sex more enjoyable and less painful.

7. Ultra-thin

These are thinner than those that are available.

8. Glow in the dark condoms

They practically glow; nothing else, they fall under a novelty.

These condoms need to be kept in light for approximately 30 seconds for them to glow

9. Flavored condoms

Same as latex, but it has a flavored coating like chocolate, banana, strawberries, etc.

Their main purpose is to make oral sex enjoyable, it’s for the female counterpart. It is introduced because no one likes the taste of rubber.

10. Pleasure-shaped

As you can get an idea from the name itself, they are of different shapes. These are also women-centric.

11. Edible condoms

These are adult novelty products. This does not serve any purpose; they are not safe, and they cannot prevent anything.

Women can eat them later on.

How to Use a Male Condom

While researching this topic, I saw that people in India are still confused & don’t know exactly how to put on a condom.

So, I decided to include this in my article, although it is not related to my blog topic by far.

Here, refer to the picture below, you can understand how to wear a male condom.

• Check the Date: Condoms past their prime (check the wrapper) are brittle risks.
• Open with Care: Ripping the packet with fingers, teeth, or nails can tear the goods.
• Pinch the Tip: Squeeze the reservoir to leave space for semen; no air bubbles allowed.
• Roll It On: Place it on an erect penis, rolling down to the base smoothly.
• Post-Game: Hold the base as you withdraw, tie a knot, and toss it in the trash, not Toilet Town.

How to Use a Female Condom

There are very few women who use this in India. And they’re also less available in the market.

I think all women and girls should know about the existence of a female condom, its benefits, and how to use it.

The image below shows how to insert and remove a female condom.

• Prep It: Pinch the inner ring into a figure-eight, think origami with purpose.
• Insert: Push it into the vagina up to 8cm, letting the outer ring rest outside.
• Guide It: Steer the penis in if needed; the outer ring stays put.
• Remove: Twist the outer ring to seal it, pull gently, and bin it.

For further details about “How to use a condom” or “कंडोम उपयोग करने के तरीके“, refer to this resource.

Condom benefits & disadvantages

Those people are unaware of the fact that condoms are not only a population control device, but also a lifesaver by protecting you from various STDs.

Condoms are the Amir Khan (Indian Actor) of contraception—versatile, reliable, and clutch. The WHO pegs consistent use at an 80% reduction in HIV transmission risk, while STI protection spans chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes [WHO, 2023]. Pregnancy? With perfect use, the failure rate’s a measly 2% annually; even with slip-ups, it’s 13%, still leagues ahead of nothing [Planned Parenthood, 2023]. Beyond stats, they’re a mood-lifter, less worry, more fun.

Textured options (ribbed, dotted) or lubricated variants can even turn up the heat. “It’s like insurance with a bonus,” says Dr. Anjali Gupta, a Delhi-based gynecologist.

Benefits:

• Reduced risk of STI transmission
• Pregnancy prevention
• Available in different shapes and sizes
• The female condom can be used during a menstrual period

Disadvantages:

Errors can happen when:

• Condom leakage
• Using the wrong lubricant
• Using the wrong size
• Accidental breakage while wearing

Condom size

Condoms come in different sizes, from regular, large and small. Width often varies from 49 mm to 56 mm.

Fit’s non-negotiable—here’s the rundown:

• Small: <120mm length, <50mm width (e.g., Durex Close Fit)
• Standard: 120-180mm length, 52-54mm width (e.g., Manforce Classic)
• Large: >180mm length, >54mm width (e.g., Skore XL)

Measure erect with a tape—length from tip to base, girth around the thickest part. Indian brands calibrate for local averages (around 130mm length, 52mm width).

Reference: Indian Journal of Urology, “Penile Dimensions in India,” 2020.

Condom Size Chart in India

Top Condom Brands in India

Ever wondered how many condom brands there are in India?

Well, you may know about some that regularly advertise on television or social media, but there are many best-selling condom brands in India to buy online.

• Durex—the global condom heavyweight—lands in India with a certain swagger. That swagger comes from its 90 years of experience in crafting premium, innovative products. You can see that in its ultra-thin “Invisible” condoms (0.045 mm-thin), which feel almost imperceptible against your skin but offer steel-like protection. It offers a range of variants—ribbed, dotted, and those that delay climax. That comes at a price, but when you know every condom is rigorously tested to withstand 50 litres of pressure without popping, you’re buying peace of mind—and a pretty great time.
• Kama Sutra takes inspiration from India’s ancient playbook of pleasure. From TTK Healthcare, it combines tradition with a bit of bedroom bravado. It’s got a 14% market share and is famous for its SkinFEEL condoms—35% thinner than human hair. Those dotted mango condoms turn oral sex into an event. With 25 years under its belt, Kama Sutra is the choice for couples who want ecstasy over just safety. At INR 140 for 12, it’s more about scripting a memorable night than just preaching protection.
• Manforce is the desi kingpin, owning 32% of India’s condom turf. It sells one condom every second (HDFC Securities, 2023). Mankind Pharma’s budget-friendly rebel offers 11 variants—think hazelnut-flavored dots or climax-delay tricks. “It’s like a flavour festival down there,” says Rohan, 28, from Pune. At INR 120 for a dotted pack, Manforce is loud, bold, and everywhere. You don’t need deep pockets to have a deep connection.
• Skore is TTK’s stylish upstart, with an 8.5% market share. Launched to vibe with India’s youth, it dishes out NOTHINGH20—thinner than thin—and neon-colored packs that scream “try me.” From dotted to delay, Skore is less about old-school safety and more about new-school swagger. “Feels modern, not clinical,” says Neha, 26, from Delhi. Skore’s climbing fast, and its trendy edge is why.
• Moods is the everyman’s champ from HLL Lifecare. It dominates rural shelves and exports to 30 countries. With ultra-thins and 1500-dot variants, it’s reliable armour with a sensual twist. Priced for the masses, Moods is the quiet giant in India’s condom saga. It balances affordability with a bit of excitement. “Simple, safe, satisfying,” says Anil, 34, from Kerala.
• Nirodh: Condoms are just the category, but if we talk about it, Nirodh is the OG freebie from the government. It’s been around since 1968. It’s basic, no-frills latex for the masses. Less about pleasure and more about population control. Not a market player, but a cultural relic worth a nod.
• Playgard is the wild child of the bunch. Born in 2012 and hyped by Rakhi Sawant’s ambassador stint, it’s Alkem Healthcare’s offering. Super-dotted strawberry or butterscotch condoms promise a playground vibe—less clinical, more carnival. “It’s fun-first,” says Priya, 30, from Mumbai. That’s exactly what it is.
• Velvet, the female condom star from Hindustan Latex, turns the tables. That’s right: polyurethane pouches for women who call their shots. It’s not yet mainstream, but that’s exactly what makes it a bold move in a market where men have traditionally held all the cards. Velvet offers STI and pregnancy protection—and a healthy dose of empowerment on top. That comes at a price, and it’s not exactly easy to find. But that just makes it the underdog with the potential to shake things up.
• Okamoto, Japan’s master of thin condoms, has been perfecting its craft for 80 years. That expertise shows in its 003 series (0.03mm)—silky Sheerlon latex that feels almost like skin. Okamoto isn’t the biggest player in India, but it’s a cult favourite among those who crave sensitivity without compromise. “It’s like skin, not rubber,” raves Vik, a 29-year-old from Bengaluru. “You don’t even feel it’s there.”
• Sir Richards Condom Company, a US indie, is new to India. It’s vegan, chemical-free latex has a social-good twist: buy one, donate one. That niche approach—and the price tag that comes with it—means it’s not exactly flying off the shelves. But eco-warriors love it. Think artisanal condoms for the woke crowd: protection with a conscience.
• Carex, from Malaysia, exports to 110 countries. It’s landed in India with 30-plus variants—dotted, flavored, benzocaine-laced for stamina. That’s a premium pick, rigorously tested and built for comfort. Carex isn’t yet a top dog in India, but its global reputation and quality latex make it a sleeper hit for discerning users.
• KS-KamaSutra is just that: the same TTK brand, same seductive DNA. You can see the same mango dots and thin thrills under one sexy banner. No double-dipping needed.
• Caution Wear Condoms is a US import with a tiny Indian footprint. It leans on standard LaTeX—reliable, if unflashy. Variants like Iron Grip (snug fit) exist, but it’s a whisper in a crowded market. For now, it’s more curiosity than contender.
• Trojan, America’s condom titan, flexes its 100-plus years of muscle. But in India, it’s a bit player. Ultra-thins and ribbed options shine, yet they’re overshadowed by local giants. “It’s quality,” shrugs Sanjay, 31, from Hyderabad. “Just not desi enough.” That’s a fair assessment.
• Playboy hops into condoms—flavored, dotted, and marketed for hedonists. It’s a flashy import, not a market mover. But its bold branding hooks the party crowd. Safety meets swagger—if you can find it.
• Cupid, India’s Cupid Limited, flies under the radar. It exports more than it sells locally. Latex condoms in fruity flavors and dotted styles keep it simple—decent quality, low buzz. That’s the quiet kid with untapped potential.

Also read: From Ultra Thin to Extra Dotted: Top Selling Condoms in India

How to buy condoms?

If you feel shy about buying from your local medicine shop, then try online. Buy condoms online in India from top shopping websites like Amazon and Flipkart.

You can buy top Indian condom brands from them.

Visit the websites, browse through all brands, choose your size and flavor, and purchase it.

Bonus: Click here to check out top selling condoms online on Amazon India

Other places:

• Shops
• Pharmacies
• Supermarkets

How to Choose the Right Condom for You

One size doesn’t fit all—literally. A bad fit kills comfort and safety. Here’s how to pick your match:

• Size: Measure erect length and girth. Standard (52-54mm width) suits most, but XL (56 mm+) or snug (48-50mm) options exist from brands like Manforce.
• Material: Latex rules, but polyurethane or polyisoprene steps up for allergies.
• Lubrication: Water-based lubes pair with latex; silicone-based outlasts but skips latex condoms to avoid breakdown.
• Texture: Dotted for her, ribbed for him, ultra-thin for both—experiment time.
• Thickness: Standard (0.07mm) balances durability and feel; ultra-thin (0.04mm) ups sensation.

“I wasted years on ill-fitting condoms,” admits Vikram, 32, from Bengaluru. “Measuring changed everything.” Pro tip: Buy a variety pack and test-drive.

Some commonly asked questions:

Thoughts

In India, people often feel shy when the conversation is sex-related. Society isn’t that progressive to talk openly about these things.

As our society lags in sex education, today we’ll discuss condoms and their benefit, how to use a condom, side effects, etc.

This article will help you understand the importance of having safe sex using a condom. Also, I’ve mentioned different types of condoms available online and the best condom brands in India.

If you like the above information, then don’t forget to share it with your friends. Share it on all of your social media accounts & on WhatsApp too.