Durex condoms, 12 pieces

A box of 12 Durex Fetherlite condoms. They are made of natural rubber latex and drawn thin to keep the feeling. They serve both as contraception and as protection against sexually transmitted infections, and some people also put them over toys such as silicone dildos to cut down on cleaning.

What thin gauge asks of you

The thinner it is, the less you feel that something is in between. In exchange, it tears just as easily if a fingernail or a ring catches it. Do not use scissors or your teeth to open the wrapper. Push it open at the edge with your fingers. When you roll it on, push with the pads of your fingers rather than the tips of your nails.

Latex and oil do not mix

Natural rubber weakens fast on contact with oil. Using an oil-based lubricant, body lotion or petroleum jelly thins the condom where you cannot see it and tears it during sex. Choose a water-based gel to use alongside it. A water-based gel is also fine applied over the outside of the condom.

One box of 12

One box holds 12 individually wrapped condoms. Each wrapper carries its own expiry date, so you can still check after the box is open.

What to know before you use it

Condoms have an expiry date. Rubber past its date loses elasticity and tears easily, so check the date before you use one. Two layered at once is not twice as safe. They rub against each other and tear instead. Do not wash one and use it again. They are not a match for anyone with a natural rubber allergy.