condom
Table of contents
condomAlso known as a condom or safety condom, it is a thin yet incredibly durable barrier. It not only prevents sperm from meeting the egg but also protects against the potential threat of sexually transmitted diseases. In today's era of heightened awareness of sexual health,condomIt has transformed from a clandestine tool in brothels into a globally recognized benchmark for safe sex. According to the World Health Organization (WHO)WHOAccording to data from [source missing], proper condom use can reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy to 21 TP3T per year and significantly decrease the transmission rate of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV and gonorrhea. However, in mainland China and [missing information], [missing information].TaiwanCondom usage remains at 20%-30%, far lower than [previous data].Europe and AmericaThe nation. This is not just a knowledge gap, but also a legacy of culture and society.

Condom Proper Use Guide

| project | step |
|---|---|
| Confirm Consensus | Confirm ConsensusFirst, ensure your partner is also willing to have sex. Clear consent from both partners is the foundation of a good sexual experience. Inspection Dates and StandardsCheck the expiration date of the condom.Expired condoms are prone to breaking.Do not use. Also, ensure the packaging indicates compliance with safety standards in your area (e.g., Australian standards). |
| Check the packaging | ✓ Expiry date (Expired is not allowed) ✓ Complete and undamaged ✓ Has CE / ISO mark |
| Choose size | Common sizes: 52mm (standard) / 56mm (large) Too tight and it will break; too loose and it will fall off. |
| Prepare lubricant | Water-based (silicone will damage the latex). |
| Prepare lubricant | Please carefully tear the packaging open along the edge with your hands. Avoid using your teeth or sharp objects to open it during a passionate encounter, as this can easily...Damaged condomPlease leave the "biting" part for later. |
| Prepare lubricant | Pinch the top to expel air.Pinch the reservoir tip of the condom between your thumb and forefinger. This allows space for semen and prevents it from breaking due to air trapped inside. Roll to the basePlace the condom on the tip of the erect penis (or sex toy), then gently roll it down to the base. What if I wear it inside out?If it's difficult to roll off, it's likely worn inside out. This is a common mistake! Please...Replace it with a new oneDo not turn it inside out before wearing it, as the outside may have come into contact with a small amount of prostatic fluid, which could pose a risk of infection. |
| Use lubricant | To make the sexual experience more comfortable andReduce the risk of ruptureYou can add an extra layer of condom over the already worn condom.Water-based lubricants. important:Do not useOily lubricants (such as petroleum jelly and baby oil) can damage latex materials. |
| Post-event handling | Pull out in timeAfter ejaculation, the penis should be withdrawn immediately while it is still erect. Hold the rootWhen pulling out, be sure toHold the base of the condom with your hand.To prevent it from slipping and to avoid wasting all previous efforts. |
| Dispose of properly | After removing the condom, tie a knot at the end, wrap it in a tissue, and then throw it in the trash. It's that simple. |

The Origins of Condoms – From the Stone Age to the Industrial Revolution
The history of condoms predates their name. As early as 11,000 BC,FranceLascaux CaveMurals depict primitive people wrapping their penises in animal skin, considered the earliest form of "contraceptive art." Ancient Egyptians (3000 BC) made "penile sheaths" from sheep intestines or fish bladders, not only for contraception but also as a symbol of status—nobles wore them to flaunt their wealth. In China, ancient courtesans used fish bladders or sheep intestines as "kidney protectants" to prevent syphilis; this is the historical basis for the scene in the film *Wu Xia* where Tang Wei washes fish bladders.
Entering the Middle Ages, Europe becausesyphilisThe syphilis epidemic (brought to the Americas by Columbus in 1495) made condoms a powerful tool for disease prevention. In 1564, Italian physician Fabrizio de Aquipondente invented linen covers, which, after being soaked in oil, were touted as a "miracle cure for syphilis." However, the real revolution occurred in the 17th century: English physician Joseph Condom designed a sheep intestine cover for King Charles II, only 0.038mm thick, approaching modern ultra-thin thickness. During this period, Japanese men made "doushuai" (腥藼) from tortoise shells or fish bladders, while in China they were called "yinjia" (陰枷), made from oil-soaked silk paper or sheep intestines; the Japanese used tortoise shells or the horns of other animals, calling them "helmets" (腥藼). kabuto-gataOil-impregnated silk paper is used to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

19th century,gunpowderA surge of innovation ensued. In 1839, Charles Goodyear invented vulcanized rubber, making condoms durable rather than fragile. In 1855, the first rubber condom was introduced, reducing its thickness to 0.06 mm. The American Civil War (1861-1865) boosted demand, with soldiers using them to prevent syphilis, and the market expanded from Europe to the world. In the early 20th century, latex replaced rubber, and by 1920, latex condoms were widely used, increasing contraceptive effectiveness from 851 TP/T to 981 TP/T.
In China, the localization of condoms started late. The first mention of "kidney garments" was found in Zhang Deyi's *Hanghai Shuqi* (1860s) from the Qing Dynasty, but it was mostly limited to...brothelThe 1939 "Contraception Law for Men and Women" mentioned "contraceptive bags," marking the recognition of their contraceptive function. Before 1949, all contraceptives were imported, and they were very expensive. In 1955, Guangzhou introduced Japanese equipment, marking the first domestic production of such products, but the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) further complicated matters.AbstinenceAmidst the wave of change, condoms were seen as "bourgeois decadence." It wasn't until the 1980s with the implementation of the one-child policy that condoms were reborn, and in 2004, the Ministry of Health promoted AIDS prevention.

Scientific Principles and Health Benefits – The Defense Behind the Thin Film
The core principle of condoms is the barrier effect: a thin membrane blocks sperm (0.05mm in diameter) and viruses (HIV 0.1μm). Latex is 0.04-0.07mm thick, while polyurethane is only 0.02mm, ensuring no leakage. Significant health benefits: WHO data shows that correct use reduces HIV transmission (80%-95%) and gonorrhea transmission (90%). In China, there were 840,000 new HIV cases in 2020; condoms can prevent 70%.
Advantages: No hormonal side effects, no doctor's prescription required, double protection (contraception + disease prevention). Disadvantages: Low usage rate (typical failure rate 181 TP3T), due to slippage or breakage. Data shows a perfect usage rate of 981 TP3T, but the actual usage is 851 TP3T. Reasons: Insufficient education and cultural awkwardness.

Data Chart: Comparison of Health Benefits of Condoms (Global Data 2020-2025)
| Types of benefits | Reduce pregnancy risks (%) | Reduce the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (%) | Usage (Asia, %) | reason |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perfect for use | 98 | 90-95 | 29.6 (China) | Barrier principle is highly effective |
| Typical use | 85 | 70-80 | 16.8 (Husband and Wife) | Common usage errors |
| Global market growth | – | – | 7.78 CAGR | Increased awareness after the pandemic |
This table, based on WHO and Chinese surveys, shows the gap between benefits and usage rates. Reason: Traditional Asian views of sex as taboo lead to a knowledge gap.

Innovation in Types and Materials – From Latex to Graphene
There are many types of condoms, which can be categorized by material:emulsion(85% market, good elasticity but prone to allergies), polyurethane (ultra-thin 0.01mm, excellent thermal conductivity), polyisoprene (non-latex, hypoallergenic). By function: ultra-thin (001), delay (benzocaine anesthesia), threaded (enhances pleasure), for women (polyurethane pouch).
Innovation abounds: In the 2010s, polyurethane replaced latex, halving its thickness and increasing pleasure (20%). In the 2020s, hydrogel became as soft as human skin; graphene-modified rubber increased strength (50%). In the Chinese market, polyurethane will account for 50%, with sales exceeding 10 billion yuan. Reason: Consumers are pursuing a "zero-feel" experience, and technology is responding to this demand.

Cultural and Social Impact: From Taboo to Liberation
In China, the evolution of condoms from a "lucky charm" to a family planning tool reflects social changes. The Cultural Revolution's abstinence and lack of sex education culminated in widespread use during the 1980s AIDS panic. In Taiwan, sex education was introduced into schools in 1921, but conservative attitudes persist, resulting in a usage rate of only 241 TP3T. Social impact: It lowered the fertility rate (from 7 to 3.5 in China), but also amplified gender inequality—women often bear the burden of contraception.
The 2020 pandemic led to a 30% usage increase, driven by a surge in demand from people staying at home. However, usage declined by 40% in 2022 due to a low-desire society. Reasons include economic pressure and cultural awkwardness, necessitating educational intervention.

Global Markets and Future Outlook – From $7 Billion to $14.3 Billion
The global market grew from $4.36 billion in 2015 to $7.03 billion in 2020, with China contributing 4.72 billion units. It is projected to reach $14.3 billion by 2025, with the Asia-Pacific region accounting for a significant share. Innovations include smart condoms (for health monitoring) that are environmentally friendly and biodegradable. The reason: a more open-minded younger generation and a focus on sexual health.

Thin film, high hopes
Condoms are not just tools, but also symbols of freedom. They have witnessed humanity's journey from abstinence to liberation, from disease panic to health and autonomy. In the future, through education and innovation, we will embrace safer intimacy. Remember: safety begins with a thin membrane.

FAQ
Expired products are prone to breakage (breakage rate 20%); oil-based lubricants dissolve the latex; high-temperature storage causes embrittlement. Reason: Neglecting details leads to an increased failure rate of 15%.
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