Touch Ribbed Condoms — Pack of 5

What it is

A Touch textured condom — raised dots, studs or ribs moulded into the latex itself, not printed or added on. Known locally as dane wala. The texture is intended to increase sensation for the receiving partner. This pack holds 5 pieces, which works out at about Rs. 35 each.

What people use it for

• More sensation for the receiving partner, which is what the raised pattern is for.
• Contraception and STI protection, identical to a plain condom.
• Variety, for couples who find plain condoms fine but unremarkable.

How to use it

1. Open the foil at the notch and check the direction before rolling.
2. Pinch the tip and roll to the base. The texture sits on the outside, so it does not affect how it goes on.
3. Use water-based lubricant generously. Texture without lubricant reads as friction rather than sensation, which is the usual reason someone dislikes them.
4. Hold the base on withdrawal.

Honest expectations

Response to texture varies a great deal — some people notice it clearly, others barely at all, and a few find it uncomfortable. A small pack is the sensible way to find out which you are, and there is no correct answer.

Safety and storage

Use a new condom for every act, and check the expiry date on the foil before use. Open the foil at the notch with your fingers — teeth, scissors and rings are how most tear before they are even on.

Use only water-based lubricant. Oil-based products — petroleum jelly, baby oil, massage oil, lotion, most creams — weaken latex within minutes and are a common reason a condom fails without either partner noticing.

Store somewhere cool and dry, away from direct sunlight. A wallet is the worst place to keep one: heat and friction damage the latex long before the printed expiry date.

Stop and see a doctor if either partner has itching, burning or a rash after use, which can indicate a latex allergy.

Stop if the texture causes soreness or irritation for either partner, and switch to plain.