Condom Use in Japan

A review of the history of condom use in Japan from 1600 to the present is presented. In 1968 Japan accounted for 35.5% of the worlds total condom production. 95% of Japans condoms are produced by 4 major companies. The companies themselves have set up more rigid quality control standards than those of the Government. Soft colors are more popular than primary colors. Psychedelic condoms have been manufactured but not sold due to government restrictions. 80% of the condoms sold are premoistened with a film of lubricant. If a spermicide were used as a lubricant the condoms would be considered medical-pharaceutical products and subject to tighter government control. While condoms are produced in 1 standard size they are made in a variety of shapes mostly with reservoir tips. The major outlet for sales is the drugstore. A 1969 survey showed that 68% of Japanese families using contraception use condoms. One of the more recent developments in condom technology is the development of a plastic condom. Preliminary reports indicate a good initial response to them.