Plastic condom available in U.S.
The first polyurethane or "plastic" male condom is on the market.  A polyurethane condom called Avanti is for sale in the western United States and should be available throughout the country by summer, according to London International Group plc in Cambridge, England, which developed the condom.  Because the plastic material is stronger than latex, the condoms can be made thinner than latex condoms.  The thinness of Avanti improves sensation and can heighten pleasure during sexual intercourse, says Dr. Bill Porter, scientific affairs director of London International Group.  Unlike latex condoms, plastic condoms have no odor and can be used safely with oil-based lubricants.  They can also be used by those who have allergic reactions to latex.  The US Food and Drug Administration, a regulatory agency, has required Avanti's labeling to say research has not yet determined its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.  The condoms sell for US $1 to $1.50 each, about twice the cost of a latex condom.
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