The company behind Durex, the London Rubber Company, was founded in a small room behind a London tobacconists in 1915. Initially a vendor of barber?s sundries, including protectives imported from Germany, the Durex name, standing for durability, reliability and excellence, was registered in 1929. The first Durex condom factory was opened in 1932.

Now manufactured by a company called SSL International, Durex is sold in more than 150 countries around the world.

For general information on pricing please click here to visit the Durex shop on www.durex.co.uk.

Relied upon and trusted by millions of people around the world, Durex condoms are sold in more than 150 countries.

Durex?s parent company is SSL International, which was formed through the merger of Seton Scholl Healthcare plc and London International Group plc in June 1999. The corporate office is located in London, and the group has operations in over thirty countries.

SSL International is a leading global healthcare group producing a range of premium branded products sold to the consumer healthcare market.

As with any commercial company this information is commercially sensitive and therefore unavailable to members of the public.

The first stage in the manufacturing process of a condom is the arrival of the raw material - natural rubber latex - at the condom factory. Prior to purchase, each batch is tested and certified at the plantation but on arrival, the batch is again tested and given a unique code which it carries throughout the production process.

To give the latex stability and strength, ingredients are added and the latex is heated to enable chemical reactions to occur. The compound then undergoes a maturity process. At the end of the maturity process, tests are carried out to ensure all the chemical reactions have taken place correctly.

When the sample has reached a satisfactory standard, it is moved into the production area where filtered air is pumped around to minimise the presence of dust particles. A continuous line of clean glass formers is dipped into the temperature controlled compounded latex and rotated continuously to ensure the latex is distributed evenly. The formers are dipped for a second time to ensure Durex condoms have sufficient thickness and strength. In this area, cleanliness is of utmost importance and condom formers are thoroughly cleaned after each production cycle.

The next stage is vulcanisation ? the formers pass through an oven to vulcanise the latex ? this fuses the two layers of latex to complete the series of chemical reactions.

The condoms then undergo a finishing process with magnesium and calcium carbonate or calcium before being removed from the formers, following which the condoms are stored for up to seven days to mature.

Durex consistently manufactures high quality condoms worldwide, exceeding the requirements of the new ISO4074:2002, which will shortly replace EN600:1966 as the European latex condom standard. The Durex Seal of Quality demands even more uncompromising quality, ensured by even tighter internal performance specifications. Durex condoms are of the highest quality and because of this, SSL is regularly consulted by health ministries, hospitals, scientists, academics and other sexual health bodies.

Durex has been manufacturing condoms for over 75 years, meaning the brand has a longstanding heritage and expertise second to none. All Durex condoms are electronically tested to ensure their integrity. In addition, condoms from each batch undergo rigorous quality tests including air burst volume and pressure tests, tensile tests, water leak testing and electronic testing.

In fact, SSL International policy is to incorporate new, more stringent quality requirements into its test programme even before these standards are formally adopted.

We have just upgraded the requirements for the Durex Quality symbol to ensure we continue to stay ahead of regulatory standards. For example, the international standard for the air burst test is for the condom to contain 18 litres of air, but our requirements is for 22 litres and typically a Durex condom will expand to contain 40 litres of air

Clinical trials have shown that the correct and consistent use of latex condoms results in contraceptive efficacy rates of 95 to 98 per cent.

High quality latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, provide an effective barrier against pregnancy, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

In tests Durex Avanti condoms have been found to compare very favourably to the published breakage rates for latex condoms.

SSL International is satisfied that the low breakage rates recorded for Durex Avanti clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of a product offering enhanced sensitivity without compromising security.

All Durex condoms are manufactured to exceed the requirements of the new ISO4074:2002, which will shortly replace EN600:1966 as the European latex condom standard. The Durex Seal of Quality demands even more uncompromising quality, ensured by even tighter internal performance specifications. In the UK, Durex condoms have the European Union CE and British Kite Mark stamps of quality.

Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If condoms are carried on a person (for example, in a wallet), this should only be a temporary measure. Make sure the condom sachets are not damaged, bent or flexed. Always ensure the expiry date has not passed. If there is any doubt as to the condition of the condom it is recommended that it is disposed of and a different condom used.

Durex condoms, in their original foil sachets, can withstand short-term exposure to high temperatures (in laboratory testing they are stored at 70?C for 7 days), but it is best to avoid keeping condoms in hot spots such as car glove boxes or near radiators as this can damage the condom.

Durex condoms, in their original foil sachets, can withstand short term exposure to both freezing and high temperatures.

However, SSL International advises that is such situations the condoms can be used only if they have returned to room temperature naturally.

It is recommended that more attention is paid while making love in water, including swimming pools and the sea, as there may be an increased risk of the condom slipping.

In addition, oil-based lubricants can damage latex. It is advisable that if having sex in the shower or bath, oil-based products such as soaps and shower gels are not used.

Durex condoms generally have a shelf life of five years. The expiry date is shown on both the outer cardboard carton and on every individual foil condom packet.

Allergic reactions to products made from natural rubber latex are relatively rare, although incidences are reported to be increasing among health care workers and those exposed to natural rubber latex either frequently or for long periods.

There are three types of reaction that are associated with use of natural rubber products:

Irritation
A dry itchy rash possibly caused by the remaining chemical additives present on the product at the end of manufacture. The irritation subsides when contact with the latex ceases. This is not an allergic reaction.

Immediate type I allergy
A reaction to the extractable protein components of natural latex. The symptoms are typically local or generalised urticaria and oedema.

Delayed type IV allergy
A reaction to residual chemical additives remaining in latex at the end of manufacture. It is often characterised by a red rash and the skin may become leathery with papules or blisters. This is a delayed reaction, usually occurring 6-48 hours after contact.

To ensure that the level of allergens in condoms is reduced, all SSL products undergo a rigorous washing process. Condoms manufactured by SSL International have consistently low protein levels. Users who experience allergic reactions to natural rubber latex are encouraged to use Durex Avanti.

A good starting point would be to call the UK Careline on 0800 338 739. They will be able to help you with your initial query.

The Durex Report 2004 found 62 per cent of people in the UK use a condom as their main method of contraception ? 72 per cent of males and 51 per cent of females. This is compared to a global average for both sexes of 63 per cent (Durex Global Sex Survey 2003).

Durex Performa condoms contain a special lubricant in the condom that helps to delay climax and prolong sexual excitement.

The lubricant involved contains a small amount of a well-established local anaesthetic, benzocaine, and is not anticipated to provide a prolonged effect if used in accordance with the pack instructions.

The anaesthetic effect of the benzocaine in Performa varies in duration from individual to individual but studies have reported that the effect on average lasts about 20 minutes. However, this time period should only be used as a guideline.

1. Extra Safe
2. Fetherlite
3. Performa
4. Sensation
5. Pleasuremax
6. Elite
7. Ribbed
8. Tingle
9. Gossamer
10. Avanti

Durex, Extra Safe, Fetherlite, Performa, Sensation, Pleasuremax, Elite, Ribbed, Tingle, Gossamer and Avanti are all trademarks of the SSL group.

Durex is committed to raising public awareness of the importance of safer sex education and the threat of sexually transmitted infections in the UK.

We work with healthcare professionals, educators, sexual health charities and organisations to support them in their work of promoting good sexual health and the importance of consistent condom use in helping prevent HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections.

In the UK, Durex continues to invest in education campaigns to raise awareness of safer sex with the aim of preventing the rise of STIs and unwanted pregnancies.

Durex produces a sex survey ? the Durex Report ? which questions people across the nation about their sexual habits. It also organises National Condom Week which raises awareness and promotes the safer sex message through a number of activities.

The Durex Global Sex Survey explores sexual attitudes, behaviour and lifestyles of people around the world. Ran through www.durex.co.uk, it allows Durex to keep abreast of sexual health trends to ensure our work in this arena reflects current needs.

This research will continue to put the vital safer sex message onto the map worldwide and underline the importance of effective sexual health and sex education campaigns.

To further communicate the safer sex message Durex produces a number of websites and newsletters aimed at a range of healthcare professionals and those with an interest in sexual health. It also produces educational material, such as CD ROMS, to help equip schools to teach sex education.

We also extend our support to key opinion formers, such as Terrence Higgins Trust and Marie Stopes International, as well as supporting and sponsoring several projects and groups.

Other key initiatives include sponsorship of the Innovation in Sexual Health Award and Sexual Health News.

National Condom Week 2006

This year, National Condom Week was centered around www.hesaysyousay.co.uk, a highly interactive website designed to help young women change the minds of young men who would rather not wear a condom.

The website, endorsed by major sexual health charities, was backed by wide publicity in young women?s media and supported with a range of literature for clinic and practice use.

www.hesaysyousay.co.uk has been an outstanding success, and will remain live throughout the summer. Healthcare professionals wishing to obtain further He says, You say promotional packs may order them by clicking here (before August 31).

The Durex Report is an annual sex survey, conducted on-line, which questions people across the nation about their sexual habits.

The 2006 Durex Report contains alarming evidence that people in the UK are remarkably complacent about sexual health, with a surprisingly high proportion ignoring safer sex messages.

Over half of all respondents admitted to having unprotected sex without knowing their partner?s sexual history. Respondents had also had an average of 9.8 different partners. It is not surprising, therefore, that more than one in ten have contracted an STI and 17% have had an unplanned pregnancy.

Women are also becoming sexually active at an earlier age than men, with 42% having lost their virginity at 16 or younger, as against 28% of men. The national average age for loss of virginity is 16.6 years.

The report also points up some significant regional differences in STI incidence, with the Midlands reporting the lowest rate, at 9%, and London the highest, at 15%. In London, more men than women have been infected (17% compared with 12%), whereas in the Midlands and the North West it is more women than men (10% vs 8% and 14% vs 10% respectively).

What all agreed on, however, is that more Government money and effort should be put into providing better sex education and increasing public awareness of Chlamydia, HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis. Some also considered that the Government should do more to promote safer sex through extending the provision of free contraceptives.

The Innovation in Sexual Health Award is a national Durex-organised event which rewards initiatives that highlight the safer sex message effectively. Free to enter and with ?1,000 for the winner, entries need to demonstrate their project is successful in targeting at risk groups, flexible, innovative and effective.

It is run through Sexual Health News, Durex?s quarterly publication for sexual health professionals.

To be added to the mailing list please e-mail your name, job title, address and contact telephone number to shn@myriadpr.com

Durex receives many similar proposals from clinics and health centres and cannot help in every instance. We will carefully read through your proposal and respond appropriately.

Please send any proposals through to hcp@durex.co.uk

Durex receives many similar proposals from colleges and universities and cannot help in every instance. We will carefully read through your proposal and respond appropriately. Please send any proposals through to hcp@durex.co.uk

Water-based lubricants, such as Durex Play and Sensilube, are safe to use with any condom from the Durex range. On no account should oil-based lubricant be used with latex condoms as these will weaken the rubber from which the condom is made. Oil-based lubricants include Vaseline, baby oil and massage oil. For more information please click here to view the Durex lubricants leaflet.

Durex Avanti condoms are resistant to oil-based lubricants. Durex Avanti condoms are made from a unique polyurethane material that is odourless and double the strength of natural latex.

Sensilube is a clear, odourless, water based lubricant which acts and feels just like a woman?s natural vaginal moisture.

Sensilube lubricant will enhance sexual comfort, confidence and enjoyment and is perfectly safe to use with condoms. A lubricant like Sensilube can also add to the pleasure of sex for both parties.

Sensilube is available to the NHS as part of the complete range of Durex condoms and lubricants.

The lubrication facts leaflet explains which lubricants are oil based and will make condoms split, and which are water based and are safe to use. The leaflet also contains a free sachet of Play feel to introduce your patients to the idea of using lubricants.

Durex Play and Sensilube should not cause irritation wherever applied. If irritation should occur, please ask your patients to stop using lubricants and to consult you to rule out other medical problems, or refer them to their GP.

Contact with the eyes should be avoided.

Durex Performa condoms contain a special lubricant in the condom that helps to delay climax and prolong sexual excitement.

The lubricant involved contains a small amount of a well-established local anaesthetic, benzocaine, and is not anticipated to provide a prolonged effect if used in accordance with the pack instructions.

The anaesthetic effect of the benzocaine in Performa varies in duration from individual to individual but studies have reported that the effect on average lasts about 20 minutes. However, this time period should only be used as a guideline.

Durex Play and Sensilube should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Water based lubricants such as Sensilube or one of the range of Durex Play lubricants - a pleasure-enhancing gel - will prevent any soreness caused by dryness and help to ensure that the integrity of the condom is maintained, while enhancing pleasure.

• Sensilube mimics a woman?s natural moisture and is perfectly safe to use with Durex condoms.
• Play feel is a silky lubricant which can make for a more sensual experience altogether.
• Play tingle lubricant creates a gentle tingling sensation, heightening stimulation for both partners.
• Play heat is a light, silky lubricant which gently warms the skin when blown on.

Lubricants are not only used when someone does not produce sufficient moisture naturally. Play lubricants and Sensilube can also be used to enhance sensitivity and pleasure and are perfectly safe to use with condoms.

If, however, lubricants are being used routinely because of constant dryness, you may wish to investigate whether your patient has a medical problem.

Yes, Durex Play and Sensilube are safe to apply when the condom is already on. These lubricants are not contraceptives and do not contain spermicide.