Posted: 01-06-2023
The entry for condom synonyms in the Collins English Dictionary defines condom as a rubber sheath worn on the penis or in the vagina during sexual intercourse to prevent conception or infection.
Synonyms include sheath, rubber, johnny, French Letter and of course raincoat. As an escort I have been a frequent, consistent user of condoms for many years now, despite this I only recently realised I am probably a fountain of knowledge on the subject. This blog has been in my mind ever since not least because I was consulted by a former client on buying condoms for his personal life, for many reasons many people do not know very much about condoms. Condoms have two functions (1) contraceptive (2) reduction of STI transmission. For me condom use is part of my personal protective equipment and incredibly important to me, condom splits are a hazard I prefer to avoid. Also as someone who does communicate with and share tips with other sex workers, I do exchange tips and knowledge about condoms. Successful use of condoms in my opinion is the result of several factors condom choice, application and condom care. I will start with the condoms I chose to use.
Over the years I have learned there is a continuous interest in the next 'best' condom, most wearers of condoms want the least intrusive, best fitting, most sensitive but this is not always the case. Some people want to use condoms to delay ejaculation, or require a heavy duty condom to withstand their own sexual activity preferences - not what you may immediately assume. Condoms are also used on sex toys because sex toys can also become STI transmitters.
My go to condom is Mate's Natural I have been using these perhaps 16 years, I use them because they fit most who fall in the normal range they are impregnated with a slightly sweet smelling and tasting lube. This makes them ideal for changing between intercourse and oral sex, as well as reducing if not eliminating that 'rubbery smell'. Mates Naturals are a good allrounder. Mates also make King Size, Extra Safe and Comfort fit. The first two are self-descriptive first larger dimensions, second slightly more durable, the last is slightly narrower to fit a slightly slimmer penis. I carry all these varieties. If Mates made a small condom I would also carry these but they do no, instead I carry Pasante Trim.
In the world of condoms myself and other sex workers tend to agree Durex are unreliable, all word of mouth and anecdotal but by all accounts generally I avoid Durex. If however I do have some Durex I use them with partners I know for being gentle and not 'go getters' - no insult intended.
Back to Mates at least 10 years ago Mates developed Skyn these are not to be confused with Skyns Skyns, Mates Skyn are non-latex packaged and marketed as a luxury condom. Made from isoprene Matex Skyn are supposed to feel less like a later of latex, more like your own skin. Feedback from clients has been some notice a difference, some do not, and some are really not bothered - they have their pleasure and that is it. Mates Skyn are now available in Large, Extra lubricated, Elite and Intense Feel. I have recently tried Mates Skyn Elite and based on feedback as well as my experience as applicant have now ordered a supply of these to carry with me.
Eagle-eyed followers may remember back in 2019 I started trialling Pasante Unique. Pasante Unique promised a second skin feel, they didn't roll on like traditional condoms instead they peeled on moulding to the penis as opposed to being a loose 'bag'. The lack of ring at the base of this condom did promise improved comfort for the wearer, but in my experience and opinion presented a potential safety risk. For this reason I kept use to partners I knew well, and carefully guided their exit holding on to the condom base after ejaculation. This type of condom made a rustling almost 'crisp-packet' noise. I found some liked them, some did not. Also of course whenever trying a new condom there is the influence of 'trying something new with promise' effect, when I recently trialled Mates Skyn Elite I purposely did not inform the wearer, as far as they were concerned I was using whatever usual condom I selected from my box.
So selection how to choose? I chose based on size, based on activity, based also on what I perceive to be the direction of the booking, likes and dislikes of the person I am with. Condoms for toys are chosen purely on size, and without need for sensitivity consideration.
A short note on female condoms I have tried these only once a very long time ago, I found them fiddly and very crinkly as a result I did not try them again.
Now I have covered condom types (and I may add to this so check back for any edits), I will in my next blog talk about application of condoms.
All the best
Ruth
