Firstmed Blog

Condom maker Futura Medical are releasing a new condom that apparently helps men have firmer and bigger erections, as well as a longer-lasting sexual experience. The rubber works like Viagra — but also protects against sexually transmitted infections. Futura boss James Barder said: “We expect to get regulatory EU approval later this year and then it is a question of launching the product soon after.”

So how does it work? A powerful gel in the condom is absorbed through the skin and opens arteries, boosting blood flow and making the penis enlarge and stay erect. In the latest trials, 108 healthy couples tried the condom. They said it helped men get firmer erections compared with standard condoms, and made sex last longer. The study results underpinned hopes the contraceptive will start generating revenues in 2008. Market research has shown so far that interest in the condom is enormous, Barder said. “Up to 80 percent of existing condom users would be interested in trying the product and, more importantly, 49 percent of non-condom users would be interested in using it as it will help them maintain an erection,” he said.

Barder said global consumption of condoms was around 14 billion per year, of which half are branded condoms that are actually sold, with the rest being condoms distributed to promote safer sex and in developing countries.

Condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against STIs and unplanned pregnancy. Doctors hope it will encourage thousands more men to use condoms — the only protection against diseases like Aids and Chlamydia. Britain is currently facing its highest ever level of Aids infections, while one in ten women has Chlamydia — which can cause infertility.