Introduction:
Polyurethane condoms are the type of external or male condoms. It is a non-latex condom made up of plastics to prevent pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and blood-borne infections. The condoms can block sperm from entering the vagina. Polyurethane is an elastomer that is rigid, flexible, resistant, clear, and thin plastic. The material is used in other products, such as diapers, sportswear, and medical fields like catheters, artificial hearts, and gloves. The first polyurethane condom came in mid-1990. Durex is the company that introduced condoms. In 1980 due to the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS is an immunodeficiency infection) epidemic, the use of condoms increased. Polyurethane condoms are thinner than latex condoms. People who are allergic to latex condoms can use this type of condom. They are readily available in stores, markets, and pharmacies. However, it comes only in a single medium size. The plastic condom covers the penis and is a barrier to prevent pregnancy. Unfortunately, some people carry risks with plastic condoms, which may not be the right choice.
What Are the Uses of Polyurethane Condoms?
External condoms can be latex or non-latex condoms. Polyurethane condoms are one of the several types of external condoms. The others include latex, polyisoprene (made from different types of plastic), and lambskin condom. The uses include:
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It is a plastic condom that is strong and does not break with water or grease. Polyurethane and polyisoprene condoms are the approved condoms for preventing pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and blood-borne infections.
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Lambskin condoms are made from lamb's porous skin, which allows certain microorganisms to enter through the condom. Hence, not approved for prevention during pregnancy, sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
What Are the Risks of Polyurethane Condoms?
Polyurethane condoms are more expensive than latex, polyisoprene, and lambskin condoms. In addition, there are various risk factors for polyurethane condoms. The risks include.
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Polyurethane condoms are available in a single size (medium). However, the fit of the condom is loose and is more likely to slip off during sex.
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The loose fit of the condom on a penis can cause friction and break a condom.
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Because of less stretchiness, there are more chances of breaking the condom.
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Due to the size and loose fit, polyurethane condoms are less effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases than latex condoms.
What Types of Polyurethane Condoms Are Available?
Polyurethane condoms are available as external condoms used as a barrier for birth control and to prevent sexually transmitted infections. Polyurethane dental dams are used for oral anal and oral-genital sex. For manual use, polyurethane gloves are available.
How Effective Are Polyurethane Condoms in Preventing Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infection Transmission?
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For Preventing Pregnancy: Polyurethane condoms are 95 % effective in preventing pregnancy. These condoms are more prone to tear, break and slip compared to latex condoms, but if the person is allergic to latex, then a polyurethane condom is a safer contraception method of birth control.
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For Preventing Sexually Transmitted Infection Transmission: Polyurethane condoms are effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs can transmit the disease through the skin or genital fluids. These include gonorrhea (bacterial infection), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human papillomavirus, hepatitis A and B, chlamydia (bacterial infection), and syphilis (bacterial infection). They do not break and slip off if appropriately used. The couple should take proper care before and during sex.
What Are the Benefits of Polyurethane Condoms?
Polyurethane condoms consist several benefits, including.
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Polyurethane condoms are more robust and thinner than latex, making them pleasurable and closer to the partner.
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These condoms are transparent and less opaque than latex.
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These are resistant to oil or water-based lubricants.
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Polyurethane condoms are more durable and less affected by heat exposure.
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These are looser and more comfortable for people who do not like tight condoms.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Polyurethane Condoms?
The advantages and disadvantages of polyurethane condoms are as follows.
- Advantages:
- Polyurethane condoms do not contain latex allergens. Therefore, it is the choice of condom for people allergic to latex. Latex-free condoms are the options to use.
- These condoms transfer body heat. It will provide pleasure and partner body heat.
- These condoms are strong and provide enough lubrication. Due to this reason, there are fewer chances of breakage.
- Many condoms smell light or strong after opening the packet. Polyurethane condoms do not provide any smell.
- Polyurethane condoms are different from other external condoms and can be recognized by their plastic appearance.
- The plastic condoms are not stretchy. Therefore, it provides more freedom of movement when the condom has covered the penis. In addition, it can be unrolled in either direction.
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Disadvantages:
- Polyurethane condoms are more expensive than other external condoms.
- A single-size polyurethane condom is available in the market. However, the size is medium, so large-size males struggle to put the condom on the penis.
- Due to breakage, these condoms are less effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
- These condoms are more likely to break and slip off due to loose fit and friction.
- Polyurethane condoms may need extra lubrication.
What Are the Tips to Avoid the Risk Associated With Polyurethane Condoms?
Polyurethane condoms are used as a contraceptive method of birth control, but several risks can increase the chances of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The tips to prevent the stakes are as follows.
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The couple may check whether the condom fits appropriately; otherwise, the condom may slip off.
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People must check the expiry date before buying the condom packet.
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The condoms are not exposed to bright sunlight for a long time.
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Never use a condom more than once.
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To prevent slipping and breakage, use lubricant inside the condom.
Conclusion:
Polyurethane condoms are made up of plastic. People who are allergic to latex condoms can use this type of condom. In addition, people prefer polyurethane condoms because they are looser, thinner, and more comfortable than other external condoms. However, the loose fit and less stretchiness may lead the condom to slip and break easily. As a result, they are less effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections. Nevertheless, the correct use of condoms may maintain healthy sex life.
