A Complete Guide to Condoms: Types, Sizes and Safe Use

Most people choose a condom by brand or price. Fit matters more, and it is the main reason a condom slips, tears, or feels uncomfortable.

This condom sizes guide covers the types available, how to work out your fit, and how to store and use a condom correctly. Raf Pharmacy stocks condoms from Durex, Skins and Sanger, delivered across Qatar in one to two hours.

What Are the Different Types of Condoms?

Condoms come in several types, each suited to a different preference. Raf Pharmacy stocks the following:

• Regular lubricated condoms, for everyday use
• Ultra-thin condoms, from the Durex Feel Thin range
• Ribbed and dotted condoms, from the Skins Dots & Ribs range
• Flavoured condoms, including strawberry, chocolate and mixed flavour packs
• Extended pleasure condoms, from the Durex Extended Pleasure range
• Extra safe condoms, from the Durex Extra Safe range
• Extra large condoms, in both Skins and Durex options
• Assorted packs, containing a mix of types in one box

Every type provides barrier protection when used correctly. The differences are about sensation and fit.

How Do I Choose the Right Condom Size?

The right condom sits firmly without pinching, and stays in place without needing to be held. Girth matters more than length, since most condoms are long enough for most users and the fit around the shaft is what determines whether one slips or feels tight.

Two signs point to the wrong size. A condom that feels tight, restricts sensation, or leaves a mark is too small. One that slips, bunches, or moves during use is too large.

Standard sizes suit the majority of users. If a regular condom feels tight or slips, an extra large option from the Skins or Durex range is worth trying. The best condoms for men are simply the ones that fit, so buying a small assorted pack first is a practical way to find yours before committing to a larger box.

Are Flavoured and Textured Condoms Safe?

Flavoured and textured condoms are regulated to the same safety standards as regular condoms and offer the same barrier protection when used correctly.

Flavoured condoms are designed primarily for oral use, and the coating is intended to be safe in the mouth. Some flavoured varieties contain sugars, so anyone prone to irritation may prefer an unflavoured option for other purposes.

Textured condoms, whether ribbed, dotted or both, have raised surfaces moulded into the latex. The texture is part of the condom itself, so it does not affect the barrier.

For anyone with a latex sensitivity, discomfort after use is worth discussing with a pharmacist rather than assuming it is caused by the texture or flavour.

How to Store and Use a Condom Correctly

Storage affects a condom as much as technique. Latex degrades with heat, friction and time, and a condom stored badly may fail even when used correctly.

Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid keeping them in a wallet, car glovebox or trouser pocket for long periods, since heat and friction weaken the latex. Check the expiry date before use, and never use a condom past it.

Using one correctly comes down to a few steps:

• Open the wrapper by hand at the notched edge, never with teeth or scissors
• Check the condom is the right way round before rolling it on
• Pinch the tip to remove air, which is where most breakages start
• Roll it down fully before any contact
• Use only water-based or silicone-based lubricant, since oil-based products damage latex
• Hold the base when withdrawing, and remove away from your partner

Use a new condom every time, and never two at once, since friction between them causes tearing.

Where to Buy Condoms Online in Qatar

Raf Pharmacy stocks condoms from Durex, Skins and Sanger, in pack sizes from 3 to 20, covering ultra-thin, ribbed, dotted, flavoured, extra safe, extended pleasure and extra large options.

Orders arrive within one to two hours through express delivery across Qatar, with free delivery on orders above QAR 99, and payment secured by credit or debit card. Selected products also earn myRaf Rewards points.

If you are unsure which condom in Qatar suits you, our pharmacists are available 24/7 on WhatsApp to answer questions before you order.

Browse the condom range at Raf Pharmacy and order online for delivery across Qatar.

FAQs

What are the different types of condoms available?

Regular, ultra-thin, ribbed, dotted, flavoured, extra safe, extended pleasure and extra large condoms, along with assorted packs containing a mix. All provide barrier protection when used correctly.

How do I choose the right condom size for a comfortable fit?

The right condom sits firmly without pinching and stays in place on its own. A condom that pinches or marks the skin is too small, and one that slips or bunches is too large.

Are flavoured or textured condoms safe to use?

Yes. Flavoured and textured condoms meet the same safety standards as regular condoms and provide the same protection. The texture is moulded into the latex and does not affect the barrier.

What is the correct way to store and use a condom?

Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, and avoid wallets or gloveboxes where heat and friction weaken latex. Check the expiry date, pinch the tip to remove air, and use only water-based or silicone-based lubricant.