FAQ

When used correctly and consistently, condoms can help reduce the risk of pregnancy and spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV/AIDS. However, no methods can guarantee 100% protection.

For pregnancy prevention, 98% of women whose male partners use male condoms correctly during every sex act over one year will be protected from unplanned pregnancy. With female (internal) condoms, 95% will be protected.

Condoms are the only multi-purpose prevention technology available that simultaneously protects against HIV, other STIs, and unplanned pregnancy.

The effectiveness of condoms in real-world settings depends heavily on correct and consistent use. While the perfect-use failure rate is about 3%, the typical-use failure rate is approximately 14%. This difference primarily reflects human errors, including:

• Not wearing it throughout the entire sexual contact: Condoms can only effectively block fluid exchange when worn correctly throughout the entire sexual contact (from erection to ejaculation). If put on midway through sexual activity or removed before ejaculation, there is still a risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission due to contact with discharge from the penis, which may contain sperm and/or viruses. Please put on a condom before the penis comes into contact with your partner during intercourse.
• Incorrect wearing methods, such as:
  • Putting it on the wrong side, then flipping and reusing: If the condom cannot roll down, you might have put it on the wrong side. In that case, please throw the condom away and get another one immediately. If you happen to get discharged on the wrong side and continue to use it, there is a risk of pregnancy.
  • Not pinching the air out of the condom tip: Before putting a condom on, please pinch out any trapped air at the tip. This prevents the condom from bursting due to pressure during ejaculation.
• Reusing condoms: Only use one condom during intercourse. If you continue to have intercourse, replace the condom with a new one after each ejaculation. Do not use a condom more than once. Reusing a condom can increase the risk of condom breakage and slippage, which subsequently might lead to unwanted pregnancy and/or the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Using expired condoms: Latex material ages over time. Do not use an expired condom, which may increase the risk of damage. If you find the condom leaks or breaks during intercourse, seek medical assistance as soon as possible within 72 hours.
• Using damaged condoms: Using fingernails, teeth and/or other sharp objects to touch the condom may cause damage, rendering it ineffective for contraception or STIs prevention. If you find the condom leaks or breaks during intercourse, seek medical assistance as soon as possible within 72 hours.
• Choosing the wrong condom size: A condom that is too loose can easily slip off during use, while one that is too tight will increase the risk of breakage. If it feels too loose or too tight when putting it on, stop using it to avoid slippage or breakage during use.
• Using lubricants incompatible with the condom material: Using incompatible lubricants greatly increases the risk of condom damage or breakage. If additional lubricant is needed, please confirm the lubricant is suitable for the condom by checking the instructions on the packaging.
• Improper storage methods: Storing condoms under direct sunlight, in extreme temperatures and/or humidity, or in places exposed to insecticides or volatile pharmaceuticals, or carrying individual condoms without the packing box greatly increases the risk of condom damage. It is recommended to keep the original packing box for storing unused condoms and store them in a cool, dry place.

When used correctly and consistently, condoms can help reduce the risk of pregnancy and spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV/AIDS.

For the vast majority of users, condoms are completely safe and comfortable to use with no adverse effects. They remain the most accessible and effective method for protecting against both pregnancy and STIs.

In some cases, some individuals may experience mild reactions that are related to specific personal sensitivities:

• Latex allergy: Some people have an allergy to natural rubber latex, which can cause symptoms such as itching, pain, skin irritation and hives during or after use. For those with latex allergies, we offer a range of non-latex polyurethane (PU) condoms, including Sagami Original 0.01 and Sagami Original 0.02 series, which provide the same level of protection without the risk of allergic reaction.
  
  Both PU condom series are available in different sizes, including standard size, L-size and XL-size, allowing you to choose your ideal fit with complete peace of mind. For easy comparison, you may refer to our comparison chart to find the best option for you.
• Spermicide sensitivity: Some condoms are coated with spermicide (Nonoxynol-9) for additional pregnancy protection. While effective, some users may find that spermicide causes irritation. All Sagami condoms are available without spermicide, allowing you to choose the product that best suits your body with complete peace of mind.

No, condoms are made from various materials to suit different preferences and needs. Two common materials are latex and polyurethane (PU).

Latex condoms (e.g., Sagami Xtreme series) are one of the most widely used types of condoms. They offer good elasticity and have long been proven effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs.

Polyurethane (PU) condoms (e.g., Sagami Original 0.01 and Sagami Original 0.02 series) provide the same level of protection while offering several distinct advantages:

• Ultra-thin and 3 Times Stronger*: PU condoms are approximately 3 times stronger* than latex condoms, allowing them to be made significantly thinner while maintaining exceptional durability. Sagami Original 0.01is a mere 18 microns^ thin, the thinnest condoms available in Sagami.
• Instantly Transmits Body Heat: Polyurethane (PU) is an excellent transmitter of heat, instantly conveying the warmth of your partner's skin for a more natural feel.
• No Rubber Odour: Condoms made from latex can have a unique rubber odour, while PU condoms are odourless.
• No Concerns about Latex Allergy: For those with latex allergies or sensitivities, PU condoms provide complete peace of mind without the risk of allergic reaction.
• A Smooth Surface: Polyurethane (PU) has a smooth surface for a softer and more natural feel during use.

Both materials are highly effective when used correctly. The choice between latex and PU ultimately comes down to personal preference, whether you prioritize the familiar elasticity of latex or the thin, heat-sensitive, and odor-free qualities of polyurethane. Sagami offers corresponding options to help you find the ideal style that best suits your needs.

For individuals with latex allergies, PU condoms are a viable alternative.

Condoms should feel snug but not uncomfortably tight. A properly fitted condom should roll down easily and stay in place during sex. Stop using the condom if you find it too loose or too tight to avoid slippage or breakage during use.

Both Sagami Original 0.01 and Sagami Original 0.02 are available in different sizes, including standard size, L-size and XL-size, allowing you to choose your ideal fit with complete peace of mind. For easy comparison, you may refer to our comparison chart to find the best option for you.

To find the right fit, you could follow the step below to measure your own size:

1. Measure the Circumference: Use tape measure to find the circumference at base point of the erected penis.
2. Account for Elasticity: Subtract 5-10mm from this measurement to allow for the condom's natural stretch. The amount depends on your preference: subtract 5mm for a snug fit, or up to 10mm if you prefer a slightly more secure feel.
3. Determine your size based on regional sizing standards:
   • For condoms purchased in Japan: Divide your result by 3 as Japanese condoms are labeled by diameter.
   • For condoms purchased outside Japan: Divide your result by 2 as condoms in most other markets are labeled by width.

Once you have your measurement, you can find the right match among our size options. Both Sagami Original 0.01 and Sagami Original 0.02 are available in different sizes, including standard size, L-size and XL-size, allowing you to choose your ideal fit with complete peace of mind. For easy comparison, you may refer to our comparison chart to find the best option for you. (When referring to our comparison chart, please use the calculation method for "condoms purchased outside Japan".)

Most condoms on the market have lubricant pre-applied to ensure the condom does not break due to packaging friction and to enhance comfort and safety during use.

For most users, this standard lubrication is sufficient... However, there are situations where you may experience inadequate moisture...

In such cases, you can choose condoms with extra lubricant. For example, Sagami Original Extra Lubricated condoms contain 950±50mg of silicone-based lubricant, which is 550mg more than the standard#, providing additional lubrication...

You can also add lubricant separately. Sagami Original Lubricating Gel is made with sterile purified water and rich in hyaluronic acid...

Condoms made from latex can have a unique rubber odour, but PU condoms (e.g. Sagami Original 0.01 and Sagami Original 0.02 series) are odourless to give you a more natural and distraction-free sensation.

Flavored condoms are primarily designed for oral sex, as the added flavorings make them more palatable. The safety of using flavored condoms for vaginal or anal intercourse is not well studied. The extra ingredients added for flavor can potentially cause vaginal or anal irritation. Additionally, flavored lubricants on such kind of condoms can disrupt the natural vaginal flora, potentially leading to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. It is generally recommended to use unflavored condoms for vaginal intercourse.

Both Sagami Original 0.01 and Sagami Original 0.02 series are unflavored condoms, so you can use them for vaginal intercourse with complete peace of mind.

Using condoms for oral sex significantly reduces the risk of transmitting most STIs, such as HIV/AIDS. While the risk of STIs transmission is generally lower with oral sex compared to vaginal or anal sex, it is not zero. Condoms provide an effective barrier protection during oral sex.

Yes, condoms are highly recommended for anal sex. Using a condom for anal sex is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of STIs, such as HIV/AIDS.

The skin of the anal canal is lined with delicate tissue that can tear easily during sex, especially without sufficient lubrication. These tiny tears can create entry points for infections, making protection particularly important. Condoms provide a barrier that significantly reduces this risk.

To ensure safety and comfort during anal sex, keep the following in mind:

• Use plenty of lubricant: Unlike the vagina, the anus does not produce its own natural lubrication. Using enough lubricant (e.g. Sagami Original Lubricating Gel) is essential to prevent the condom from breaking due to friction and can minimize discomfort.
• Choose the right lubricant: If you are using latex condoms, always use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant. Oil-based products like petroleum jelly, lotion, or cooking oil can damage latex and cause the condom to break. Sagami Original Lubricating Gel is a water-based lubricant that is compatible with most condoms, including latex and PU.
• Change condoms frequently: Condoms are designed for single use only. It is recommended to change condoms frequently during anal sex to maintain hygiene and safety.

Yes, many condoms are specifically designed to enhance sexual pleasure. Textured options include ribbed condoms (with raised ridges for added friction), dotted condoms (with raised dots for increased stimulation), and condoms that combine both textures.

Xtreme Feel Long is an example of dotted condoms, designed to provide long-lasting and confident pleasure. The powerful bumpy dots on the condom delivers a playful teasing effect, making every touch more stimulating and bringing a uniquely heightened sensation.

Condom breakage is relatively rare when condoms are used correctly. Breakage is almost always caused by human error rather than a defect in the condom itself. Common causes include using the wrong size (too tight), insufficient lubrication, using incompatible oil-based products with latex condoms, using expired condoms, trapped air inside the condom, damage from fingernails, teeth and/or other sharp objects when opening the package or handling the condom, or improper storage methods.

To prevent breakage and ensure safe use, follow these guidelines:

• Ensure proper fit: Choose a condom that fits snugly but not too tight. Stop using the condom if you find it too tight to avoid breakage during use.
• Use adequate lubrication: Apply enough water-based or silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction.
• Avoid oil-based products: Never use oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly, lotion, or cooking oil with latex condoms, as they can degrade the latex and cause breakage. If additional lubricant is needed, please confirm the lubricant is suitable for the condom by checking the instructions on the packaging.
• Check the expiration date: Always check the date before use. Condom material ages over time. Do not use an expired condom, which may increase the risk of damage.
• Pinch the tip: Before putting a condom on, please pinch out any trapped air at the tip. This prevents the condom from bursting due to pressure during ejaculation.
• Open the package and handle the condom carefully: Use your fingers to open the package and handle the condom. Using fingernails, teeth and/or other sharp objects to touch the condom may cause damage, rendering it ineffective for contraception or STIs prevention.
• Proper storage: Storing condoms under direct sunlight, in extreme temperatures and/or humidity, or in places exposed to insecticides or volatile pharmaceuticals, or carrying individual condoms without the packing box greatly increases the risk of condom damage. It is recommended to keep the original packing box for storing unused condoms and store them in a cool, dry place.

All Sagami condoms meet stringent ISO standards, ensuring reliable protection when used correctly.

If you find the condom leaks or breaks during intercourse, seek medical assistance as soon as possible within 72 hours.

No, condoms should never be flushed down the toilet. They can clog plumbing and sewage systems. After use, always wrap the condom in a tissue and put it in the bin.

Most latex condoms are biodegradable, but the process is slow and typically occurs in landfill conditions rather than through standard recycling programs. Condoms should not be placed in recycling bins.

Non-latex condoms made from polyurethane, polyisoprene, or nitrile are not biodegradable. Always dispose of all types of condoms in regular trash.

Yes, condoms are often available for free through various public health programs, community health centers, family planning clinics, and some educational institutions. Many health departments and sexual health organizations distribute free condoms as part of STIs prevention and family planning services.

Yes. Sagami offers various bulk purchasing options to suit your needs. Our largest package size contains 20 pieces per box, allowing you to enjoy significant cost savings compared to buying smaller packs. This is particularly convenient for regular users or couples who want to stock up without frequent reordering.

All Sagami condoms are external (male) condoms. Our product range focuses exclusively on high-quality male condoms, including our premium polyurethane condom series Sagami Original 0.01 and Sagami Original 0.02, as well as latex condom series like Sagami Xtreme. Each of our condoms is designed with advanced Japanese technology to deliver exceptional thinness, strength, and comfort.

Views on condom use vary across different religious traditions and interpretations. In Islam, opinions differ among scholars and schools of thought. Some consider condom use permissible (halal) for reasons such as protecting the health of either spouse, preventing the spread of disease, or temporary family planning with mutual consent. Others may have different views.

No, it is not safe to use an expired condom, as condom material ages over time, increasing the risk of damage. Always check the expiration date on the package before using a condom. If the date has passed, dispose of the condom and use a new one.

Proper storage is also essential for maintaining condom effectiveness. Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from:

• Direct sunlight
• Extreme temperatures and/or humidity
• Places exposed to insecticides or volatile pharmaceuticals

Following these guidelines ensures that your condoms remain in optimal condition, providing reliable protection when you need them.