Grove’s guide to natural condoms: How to pick sizes, materials, and more for the best sexual experiences.

Like our cable or internet connections, condoms only seem to come up when they don’t work. According to the Mayo Clinic, "[external] condoms are generally safe and effective." But there are a few risks associated with condoms: latex allergies mainly and the small percentage of condom breakages during sex (which can lead to pregnancy and STIs). Cleveland Clinic also points out urinary tract infections and irritation (for both men and women) as smaller risks.

If they work as intended, though, they fade into the background and let you focus on the heat of the moment. But, even if they’re working correctly, it’s worth asking if you’re using the right materials (and size) for the best sexual experience.

Shopping for condoms can be overwhelming, considering the sheer number of brands, shapes, sizes, textures, materials, and, yes, flavors available — all promising an ecstatic romp in the sack. Unfortunately, it probably won’t be all that ecstatic if you choose the wrong condom, but fear not, because we’ve got you covered before you get covered. Here’s what you need to know to pick the best condoms to keep you safe, childless, and satisfied in bed.

Internal condoms, also called female condoms, are protective barriers that fit on the inside of a vagina or anus. They look kind of like a plastic tube with rings on either end, with one ring fitting on the inside of the body and one covering the outside entryway.

Like external condoms, internal condoms are considered class II medical devices that can protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases and infections. They are much larger than external condoms, and are made with similar latex and non-latex material options.

The CDC recommends not using internal condoms with external condoms — this can cause tearing which can lead to pregnancy and STI transmission. They also recommend not reusing internal condoms, they're one and done.

How do internal condoms feel?

After working through the initial new-and-awkward phase, internal condoms can feel amazing for both partners. Unlike external condoms, which require a phallus or erection nearby, internal condoms can be inserted and stay inserted hours before sex even starts.

When things start to get heated, the internal and external rings help stimulate the inside and outside sensations for each partner. For added pleasure, internal condoms come pre-lubed, and play nice with most water and silicone-based lubes.

Find out more about natural and personal lubricants that work best with condoms.

Added pleasure, combined with added sexual protection, has led to many people to prefer internal condoms to their external counterparts.

The only way to get the right sized condom is to know your measurements. A good fit means a good time, and while measuring your penis may be kind of weird (if you haven’t already been doing it your whole life,) it’s quick and easy to do!

Things you’ll need to get your measurements

• Flexible measuring tape or…
• ...a rigid measuring tape and a length of string
• A penis

Step 1: Stand tall!

Step 2: Measure length

Step 3: Measure girth

Step 4: Converting girth to width

While knowing the size you need makes condom shopping a lot easier, there is still an overwhelming of condoms. The main decider here is condom material, which affects the feeling, effectiveness, and cost of any condom.

While marketing terms like “Fire & Ice” may sound silly, extra condom features can be a huge turn-on, given the right context.

Textured condoms

Condoms with ridges, studs, ribs, or other added textures can be great if you want more friction during penatrative sex. When using textured condoms, be sure to use additional lube, as extra friction can quickly turn to extra irritation if things get too dry.

Flavored condoms

Fun condom fact: many condoms (and their lubes) taste terrible. If you want oral sex on a phallus without the risk of STDs, STIs, or a bad taste, a flavored condom is an easy fix! Many brands offer organic and vegan flavors that taste great.

The last thing you want is for your condom to get in the way of your good time. As long as you follow these basic guidelines, you’ll be sure to avoid breaks, spills, slips, and the dreaded inside-out moment.

Step 1: Wrap it up!

Pinch the tip of the condom between two fingers. Then, roll the base of the condom over the phallus until the roll meets the base of the penis.

Step 2: Lube that condom!

Condoms create a lot of friction during sex, especially if they’re dry. Too much friction can be unpleasant and can lead to the condom coming off or tearing during use. If your condom isn’t pre-lubed, add your own!

Step 3: Pulling out.

Once a condom has sperm in it, be careful! To avoid things like condom flips, slips, and leaks, wrap your thumb and index finger around the base of the condom to hold it in place as you pull the phallus out of any sexy spot.

Step 4: Throw it out.

Condoms are not reusable or recyclable, so after a job well done, they must be thrown out — but toss them in the trash can, because they’re also not flushable!

Can a condom be “eco-friendly?”

While condoms are one-use only and made of materials that take a long time to biodegrade, there are ways to ensure your condom is as eco-friendly as possible. Condoms made from sustainably sourced rubber and from companies practicing positive trade and labor practices can help soften the blow of their single-use status.

Can a condom be “all-natural”?

The main ingredient in latex and rubber condoms is all natural: both are derived from the rubber tree. But most condoms mix this natural ingredient with synthetic fillers. All-natural condoms may be more expensive, but they are pure in both condom and lube ingredients.

How can I put on a condom without ruining the moment?

By accepting that condoms are sexy, of course! Condoms are only as annoying as you make them. Changing the way you view condoms goes a long way toward making them more fun. Condoms aren’t a break in the action — they are part of the action.