Sexpert: Feb. 17, 2011

Dear Sexpert,

I’ve always been conscientious about using protection during oral, anal and vaginal sex. I’m familiar with where to get condoms both on and off campus; I regularly get tested at University Health Services, and urge my friends to get checked out annually. However, I have one small — er, rather big — question to ask you: How do I know that the condom I’m buying is the right size for me? I’ve never actually happened across a condom size chart or condom model guideline when shopping or looking for condoms. Are all condoms one size? If not, how small is too small? How large is too large? Could buying the wrong-sized condom be dangerous or detrimental during sex? Help!

— Fairly Well Endowed

Dear Fairly Well Endowed,

Contraception during sex can help reduce the chance of both pregnancy and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections. Indeed, there appears to be a lack of information out there regarding condom size and the “right fit” for you. A too tightly or too loosely fitting condom can compromise its effectiveness in preventing against pregnancy and the dissemination of STIs — not to mention the fact that a tight condom may reduce pleasurable sensations for both you and your partner during sex! Choosing the correct condom size is an important and essential part of a healthy sexual lifestyle.

The first thing to consider when shopping for the right fit is penis size. On average, typical penis length usually falls somewhere between six to six-and-a-half inches when erect; though, anywhere from five to seven — even eight inches — is still considered within the average range. So get out that ruler, Fairly Well Endowed: it’s time for you to find the right fit!

Condoms are manufactured to have a little extra space at the tip of the condom for the accumulation of semen during ejaculation. Condoms are also made to stretch many times their normal length. Recent research has suggested that men with a larger-than-average penis tend to experience condom breakage more frequently than men with a smaller-than-average penis. Nevertheless, it is essential to determine your own unique condom size, because wearing a condom that is too small may be dangerous for both you and your partner during sex. For the male wearing the condom, if it is too tight it may feel uncomfortable and result in condom breakage; conversely, if it is too loose it may result in condom slippage and the transmission of STIs during sex. Finally, if a condom is too short, STIs could be transmitted from the exposed part of the penis to your partner. Herpes requires only skin-to-skin contact to transmit the virus.

Another important factor when determining condom fit is penis girth. The average circumference (girth) of a typical erect penis is 4.5 to 5 inches. If your girth is below average, a standard-sized condom may feel too loose, resulting in slippage, and/or the transmission of STIs. Conversely, if your girth is above average, the condom may be too tight and break during sex. A snugly fit condom is an ideal and effective agent against unwanted pregnancy and the transmission of STIs.

Historically, popular condom manufacturers have only catered to men with an “average” sized penis. Currently, however, condoms come in a variety of shapes, colors, styles, flavors and sizes. A chart from Columbia’s sexual health website provides the measurements for different size condoms.

The only way to truly find the right fit for you is to measure your penis when it is erect. A normal tape measure or ruler is sufficient. You could also get your partner to do it! For penis length, measure from the tip of the head along the upper shaft, all the way down to where the penis meets the body. For girth, measure the widest part of the shaft with a piece of string or a tape measure. From these measurements, you will be able to determine whether you need a small, average or large condom that fits you in all the right places!

Condoms are available outside the dorm rooms of Sexual Health Advisors. Condoms are also available at UHS for free, and at CVS, the U-Store and the Wawa for a small cost. Wherever you purchase or pick up your condoms, however, remember this advice: the right fit is the right choice for preventing against STIs and pregnancy. Go get that ruler, go get that condom and have some safe fun!

— The Sexpert

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The Sexpert is written by a team of peer sexual health educators and fact-checked by University health professionals. You can submit questions to sexpert@dailyprincetonian.com. Don’t be shy!