GB2595268A - Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophy-lactic underwear - Google Patents

Abstract

Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear 10 comprises an underwear body 12 having a genital and/or rectal access with a condom (14, figure 2) at the access. A closure element 16 at the access can be opened and closed for permitting and inhibiting access to the sheath 14. The closure element is biased towards a closed condition. A stimulating element forms part of the closure element for enhancing sexual pleasure of a partner and/or a user. The closure may be detachable from the underwear such that a user may select from a range of stimulating elements such as a rib or a vibrator. The closure may be rigid, hinged and biased by a spring or an elasticated portion; it may be fastened to the underwear body by any of a hook-and-loop fastening, a zipper, a button, a popper, a hook or adhesive. The condom may be integral or replaceable. Also disclosed is menstrual underwear with a cavity and a sanitary towel module removably receivable within the cavity.

Description

Pleasure-Enhancing Contraceptive And Prophylactic Underwear The present invention relates to a garment, and more specifically underwear in this case, the underwear being pants or briefs having contraceptive, prophylactic and/or pleasure-enhancing properties. The present invention also relates to a method of providing contraception, along with enhanced sexual pleasure, and which prevents or inhibits the transmission of venereal diseases.

Unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and gonorrhoea, are potential and undesirable side effects of unprotected intercourse. Using a condom prevents or reduces the likelihood of either occurring. However, there 10 are issues with the use of a condom.

Improper application of a condom can have the same effect as the absence of one. Failure to pinch the reservoir at the tip of a male condom can result in semen spillage, as can accidental ripping of the condom. Male condoms are single use and are often made of latex, to which some people may be allergic. A solution is to use a female condom which requires no pinching of the reservoir, is more commonly formed of polyurethane, and which may be re-used, thereby potentially allowing for multiple rounds of intercourse.

A male or female condom is usually provided in a sealed packet. To be effective, the packet needs to be opened and the condom applied prior to sexual coupling or coitus. In the spur of the moment, such a hiatus and any clumsiness or self-consciousness associated with applying the condom, can affect the mood, potentially resulting in a disappointing outcome. Rushing the application of the condom increases the chances of improper application.

Once again, using a female condom is a potential solution as it may be inserted in anticipation of sexual activity, thereby removing altogether the pause associated with the application of the protective device. Furthermore, wearing the condom in anticipation can be considered empowering for at least the female partner who knows that any sexual congress will not happen without protection, particularly if her partner is unreasonable and/or unreliable. However, outside of intercourse, wearing a female condom for any length of time is uncomfortable.

Furthermore, sexual fulfilment has no upper bound. It is well-understood that sexual pleasure may be increased by use of aids, particularly to counteract the reduction in pleasure when using condoms. However, the logistics and geometry mean it may be difficult to use said aids when either or both parties is/are approaching climax.

The present invention seeks to provide a solution to these problems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear comprising: an underwear body having a genital access and/or a rectal access; a condom element at the said genital access and/or rectal access; a closure element at or adjacent to the genital access and/or rectal access, the closure element being openable and closeable for respectively permitting and inhibiting access to the condom element; biasing means for biasing at least a portion of the closure element towards a closed condition, and a pleasure-enhancing element at or adjacent to at least part of the closure element for enhancing sexual pleasure of a partner and/or a user.

The underwear provides an effective barrier to prevent transmission of venereal disease through intercourse. The underwear also provides contraception whilst simultaneously enhancing the pleasure of the user, one or more partners or all those involved.

Optionally, the pleasure-enhancing element may comprise at least one of: a rib, a projection, a bump, a lubricant, a gel, a vibration element, a texture, and a genital-contacting element. Furthermore, the closure element may be detachably connectable to the underwear body. Additionally, the detachable closure element may be selectable from a plurality of different said detachable closure elements. These features provide a choice of closure elements from which to select a closure element having a desired pleasure-enhancing element. Thus, the underwear are customisable by the user and/or a partner, by tailoring the underwear to meet their needs for optimal stimulation.

Preferably, the pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear may further comprise a hinge element which hingeably interconnects the closure element and underwear body at or adjacent to the genital access and/or rectal access. Beneficially, the hinge element may include at least one of: metal, plastics, and fabric. Optionally, the closure element may be at least in part rigid. Preferably, the biasing means may comprise at least one of: an elasticated portion, and a spring. These features allow the closure element to be openable and to perform its function, preferably without injury.

Additionally, the pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear may comprise a condom-enhancer, which comprises at least one of: a rib, a projection, a 5 bump, a lubricant, a gel, a tightening element, stimulating fibres, and a vibration element. This feature increases the stimulation and enjoyment for the user and/or a partner.

Furthermore, the pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear may further comprise a fastening means for fastening the closure element to the underwear body. Optionally, the fastening means may comprise at least one of: a hook and loop engagement, a zipper engagement, a button engagement, an adhesive engagement, a popper, and a hook engagement. The fastening means increases the general hygiene for the wearer, and prevents, inhibits, or substantially prevents or inhibits foreign objects from entering the condom element.

Beneficially, the condom element may have an open end, which may be sealingly connectable to the underwear body. This allows the condom element to perform its contraceptive and prophylactic function by reducing the risk of tearing and allows for connecting a condom element to the underwear body. Alternatively, the condom element may be integrally formed with the underwear body. This eases manufacture.

Furthermore, the underwear may further comprise a condom module which comprises said condom element. Preferably, the underwear further comprises a receiving cavity, the said condom module being removably receivable within the receiving cavity. This enables the underwear to be re-usable. Additionally, the underwear may further comprise a sanitary towel module receivable within the receiving cavity. The underwear may be adapted for use during intercourse, during menstruation, or both.

Advantageously, at least one of the closure elements and the fastening means may have a drainage means for draining and/or capturing semen during and/or after intercourse. The advantage is the increased hygiene during and after intercourse, as it reduces the risk of conception and disease transmission. It also allows the wearer to have multiple rounds of intercourse by reducing the chance of spillage.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of enhancing pleasure and providing contraception for a user, the method comprising the steps of: a] providing pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear; b] opening the closure element; c] inserting either the penis of the user into the condom 5 element such that the condom element projects outwards, or inserting the penis of a partner into the condom element such that the condom element is received by the user during intercourse; and d] a biasing means biasing the closure element into contacting or substantially contacting at least one of the user and the partner's genitalia and/or rectum and/or perineum during intercourse for enhancing the user and/or partner's pleasure. This 10 method allows participants to have safe intercourse, whilst at least in part countering the loss or reduction in sensation caused by the condom element.

Optionally, the method of providing pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear for a user may further comprise the step of: e] providing a fastening element for fastening the closure element to the underwear body such that when fastened, the closure element prevents or inhibits spillage of semen contained within the condom element. This increases the level of hygiene and reduces the chance of disease transmission.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of improving a sexual experience using pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear, the method comprising the steps of: a] mounting a condom element at or adjacent to a user's vagina and/or rectum prior to a sexual experience, and b] the underwear sexually stimulating one or all of the parties during coupling. This method removes any hiatus and clumsiness, by providing the user the opportunity to have protection in place prior to any intercourse, as well as enhancing the pleasure of at least one participant.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a menstrual underwear comprising an underwear body, a receiving cavity, and a sanitary towel module removably receivable within said receiving cavity. This enables the same underwear to be multipurpose by being usable for intercourse and for menstruation.

The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a front representation of one embodiment of pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear in accordance with the first aspect of the 5 invention in a closed condition; Figure 2 shows a perspective representation of the underwear of Figure 1 in an open condition; Figure 3 shows a perspective representation of a condom module, a secondary layer of fabric and part of an underwear body of the underwear of Figure 1, in accordance 10 with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 4 shows a perspective representation of the condom module of Figure 3; Figure 5 shows a perspective representation of the closure element of Figure 1; Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional representation of the underwear of Figure 1 in-use in the closed condition and prior to intercourse; Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional representation of the underwear of Figure 6 in-use in the open condition and prior to intercourse; Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional representation of the underwear of Figure 6 in-use in the open condition and during intercourse; Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional representation of the underwear of Figure 6 in-20 use in the closed condition and after intercourse; and Figure 10 shows a cut-away representation of a second embodiment of pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear in accordance with the first aspect of the invention in use.

Referring firstly to Figures 1 to 3, there is provided pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear indicated generally at 10 comprising an underwear body 12, and a condom module 13 which comprises a condom element 14. The underwear 10 also comprises a closure element 16, and a fastening means 18, although these features may be omitted.

In this embodiment, the underwear body 12 receives a user's backside, hip region, and 30 waist region and has at least one, and in this case, a plurality of holes, apertures, or openings 20. The user's abdomen or torso extends through one of the openings 20, which is typically the largest aperture and which defines a waistband of the garment. Thus, the underwear body 12 encloses, circles, or surrounds at least part of a user's abdomen or torso. Two further said openings or leg-receivers 20 each receive a respective leg of the user, as shown in Figure 2 and these typically have smaller dimensions than the above-mentioned first said waist opening.

The underwear body 12 may be at least in part elasticated for a tighter or snug fit, and/or may conveniently be formed of natural or synthetic materials, or a combination thereof. In this latter case, preferably, at least pad of the underwear 10 in this embodiment is made of cotton although any other material or combination thereof, such as lace, silk, velvet, fur, feathers, at least one polymeric and/or elastomeric material such as Lycra RTM, spandex, nylon, latex, rubber may be envisaged. The underwear body 12 may be shaped so as to receive and cover or substantially cover both buttocks, or may be designed to be substantially a thong or thong-like.

The underwear 10 also comprises a secondary layer of fabric 21 as best shown in Figure 3, although this feature may be omitted. The secondary layer of fabric 21 may be referred to as a gusset. Said secondary layer of fabric 21 may be formed of the same material and/or a different material to the underwear body 12. The secondary layer of fabric 21 is connectable or connected, preferably by sewing, to the underwear body 12, whether on an outer surface or preferably, on an inner surface of the body 12 as shown. The secondary layer of fabric 21 is or is substantially positioned at least in part between the leg openings 20. The secondary layer of fabric 21 is or is substantially a rectangle, trapezium or trapezoid in the present embodiment but any shape may be envisioned, such as curved, non-curved, at least partly curved, oval, polygonal or any suitable shape. The secondary layer of fabric 21 forms a cavity, pocket or receiving cavity 23 within which at least part of the condom module 13 is receivable. The secondary layer of fabric 21 preferably also comprises at least one access-aperture 22a. The secondary layer of fabric 21 may also improve the comfort and/or hygiene of the wearer.

The underwear body 12 also comprises at least one access-aperture 22b, preferably aligned or alignable with the or at least one of the access-apertures 22a of the secondary 30 layer of fabric 21. The aligned access-apertures 22a,22b provide an in-use access to the genitalia and/or the rectum, preferably both. Thus, the underwear body 12 can be understood to have a genital access 24a and/or rectal access 24b via the access-apertures 22a,22b. The access-apertures 22a,22b themselves are each respectively defined by an aperture-edge 26a,26b.

The condom module 13, best shown in Figure 4, enables the underwear 10 to be 5 contraceptive and prophylactic. The condom module 13 is fastened or fastenable, connectable or receivable within the receiving cavity 23 formed by the secondary layer of fabric 21. Preferably the condom module 13 is removably insertable so as to be replaceable. The condom module 13 comprises at least the condom element 14. Preferably, the condom module 13 also comprises an outer housing 27 although this 10 feature may be omitted.

The condom element 14, being considered a condom, sheath, or sheath element, provides an in-use barrier which prevents or inhibits transmission of a sexually transmitted disease and/or conception. The condom element 14 is positioned or positionable at the said genital access 24a and/or rectal access 24b. The condom element 14 in this embodiment is clamped by or connected to the outer housing 27, preferably non-separably and more preferably, sealingly. As such, removal of the condom module 13 involves removal of the outer housing 27 and the condom element 14. It could however easily be envisioned in an alternative embodiment, that the condom element may be detachably connectable to the outer housing to enable the condom element to be changeable independently of the condom module and/or outer housing.

The condom element 14 is preferably formed of a pliantly-flexible polymeric material, such as latex or polyurethane, or any other material suitable to prevent direct contact and/or fluid exchange between the genitalia and/or rectum of the user and the mouth, genitalia and/or other opening of a partner, when the condom element 14 is in-use. The condom element 14 is pliable, and in this case is at least partially rolled or folded prior to use as best shown in Figure 3. In this embodiment, the condom element 14 is adapted to be received internally by the user, such as within the vagina and/or the rectum. The condom element 14 has an open end 28a, a closed end 28b, and a condom wall 30 extending therebetween. The condom element 14 defines an internal cavity 32. In this embodiment, the condom element 14 is not or not substantially tight-fitting around the partner's penis or appendage.

The outer housing 27 enables the condom module 13 to be connectable or connected to the underwear body 12. In this embodiment, the outer housing 27 enables the condom module 13 to be snugly receivable or received within the receiving cavity 23 formed by the secondary layer of fabric 21, thereby preventing or inhibiting undesired or accidental 5 removal or detachment of the condom module 13 from the underwear body 12. The outer housing 27 may be liquid-tight or liquid-proof but preferably, the outer housing 27 is formed of one or more absorbent materials to prevent or inhibit any fluid spillage. As such, the outer housing 27 may be considered as a drainage means. The outer housing 27 is connectable or connected, preferably sealingly connected with the condom element 14. 10 The outer-housing 27 comprises a central opening or access-aperture 22c, similar to the access-apertures 22a,22b.

The open end 28a of the condom element 14 is fastened, connected or connectable, preferably sealingly, to the access-aperture 22c, specifically to at least part of, and in this case, all along the extent of an aperture-edge 26c thereof. As such, the outer-housing 27 surrounds or substantially surrounds at least in part the condom element 14. This provides a liquid-tight seal, and reduces the risk of the condom element 14 becoming detached from the underwear body 12 and/or the outer-housing 27. The access-apertures 22a,22b,22c are all depicted here are oval or circular in cross-section but any of the said access-apertures may be any other suitable shape or cross section such as curved, non-curved, part curved, polygonal, such as rectangular, triangular, or formed as a slit. The access-aperture 22c and/or the condom element 14 may optionally have one or more flaps, but this feature may be omitted. Said one or more flaps may be on one, either, or both sides of the condom element 14. Said one or more flaps may extend over or across the open end 28a and/or the closed end 28b of the condom element 14. The flap or flaps may overlap with and/or connect with each other, and/or the housing 27. This may provide a, preferably sealed or sealable, cavity or sleeve within which the condom element 14 is contained prior to use. The sleeve may comprise latex, polyurethane, or any other suitable material. If the condom module 13 is provided separately, the condom element 14 is protected from contamination, and/or lubricant is sealed in. The flap or flaps may be referred to as access flaps, seal flaps or sealing flaps.

The condom wall 30 is continuous and substantially forms a tube or cylinder, and may be circular, oval or ovaloid in lateral cross-section. The condom wall 30 has an interior surface 34a and an exterior surface 34b. The interior surface or internal face 34a in-use contacts the penis whilst the exterior surface or external face 34b in-use contacts the walls of the user's vagina and/or rectum.

The condom element 14 and/or, as shown, the condom module 13 may also have a condom-enhancer 35, although this feature may be omitted. The condom-enhancer, condom-pleasure-enhancing element, or pleasure-enhancer 35 comprises at least one of: a rib, a stimulating fabric or fibres, a projection, a bump, a lubricant, a gel, a tightening element, a vibration element, or any combination thereof. The pleasure-enhancer 35 may be found in or on any of: the interior surface 34a, the exterior surface 34b, the open end 28a, the closed end 28b, within the internal cavity 32, and any combination thereof. The pleasure enhancer 35 is preferably positioned in or on the condom module 13 and more preferably, on the outer housing 27. Most preferably, the pleasure enhancer 35 is on an inner-facing surface of the outer housing 27, and/or is positioned such that the in-use pleasure enhancer 35 contacts, faces and/or is aligned with an erogenous zone of a user, such as but not necessarily the clitoris, and/or perineum. As such, the condom-enhancer 35 may be referred to as a clitoral stimulation pad. The position of the condom-enhancer 35 may even be alterable and/or selectable by the user, for instance if the condom -enhancer 35 is detachably connectable to the condom module 13.

There may be a plurality of pleasure-enhancers and/or a plurality of ribs, projections, bumps, lubricants, gels, tightening elements and/or vibration elements. If at least one gel, said gel or gels may provide a heating or cooling sensation to enhance pleasure and/or increase or restrict blood-flow. If at least one tightening element, this may be an elasticated section or band enclosing the condom element 14 and/or an in-use penis, which is more commonly referred to as a cockring, to increase sensation or prolong the duration of intercourse by restricting blood-flow. If ribbing, a bump or bumps, or a vibration element or elements, these may be positioned to maximise stimulation to the penis head, the cervix, the G-spot, the clitoris, the perineum, the rectum and/or the general groin area of the user and/or the or all partners involved. The vibration element may even be remote-controllable. The vibration element may even be turned on prior to intercourse to increase arousal of the user.

Referring now to Figure 5, the closure element 16, which may be or include one or more of: a cover, lid, teasing element, or gusset, is a multi-functional flap connectable or, here, 5 permanently connected with the underwear body 12 and/or the condom module 13. The first function of the closure element 16 is to be openable and closeable for respectively permitting and inhibiting access to the condom element 14, which may have the effect of increasing arousal by teasing. Thus, the closure element 16 has a closed condition and an open condition. In the closed condition, the closure element 16 contacts or 10 substantially contacts the underwear body 12. In the open condition, the closure element 16 is or is substantially spaced-apart from the underwear body 12, even when connected by a hinge element 36 to the underwear body 12.

When in the closed condition, the closure element 16 improves the general hygiene level and comfort by preventing or inhibiting dirt or particulate debris from being deposited upon or entering the condom element 14 prior to intercourse. The closure element 16 also prevents lubrication or a lubricant or gel on the condom element 14 from contacting and soiling clothes. A second function of the closure element 16, or at least part thereof, is to enhance the sexual pleasure of a partner or a user. A third function is to provide a cap or cover to seal, prevent, or inhibit spillage of the contents within the internal cavity 32 of the condom element 14 post-ejaculation. The closure element 16 is positioned at or adjacent to the genital access 24a and/or rectal access 24b, and is preferably connected to the underwear body 12 rearwards or posteriorly of the or all access-apertures 22b.

The closure element 16 is preferably adapted to accommodate a shape of the user, and as such has an ergonomic design to enable wear throughout the day. In this case, the closure element 16 is or comprises an elliptical portion 37a, although a non-elliptical portion, such as oval, circular, curved, non-curved, part curved, arcuate, polygonal, whether uniform, non-uniform, regular, irregular, or a non-uniformly arcuate portion may be envisioned. The closure element 16 is preferably at least in part pliable. As shown in Figure 5, the closure element 16 also comprises at least one, and here two tabs or projections 37b extending from either end of the oval portion 37a, to provide a better fit, although one or both projections 37b may be optional. Said tabs 37b are integrally formed with the elliptical portion 37a, although this need not be the case.

The closure element 16 comprises at least one layer 38 of fabric, the hinge element 36, and a biasing means 40. In addition to or instead of the outer housing 27, the closure element 16 and/or the garment body 12 also comprises a drainage means 42, which may or may not include a capture element, although this or these feature(s) is/are optional. At least part of the closure element 16 defines or comprises a pleasure-enhancing element 44 for enhancing the sexual pleasure of one or both of the partners.

The said at least one layer 38 is formed of natural material, synthetic material, or any combination thereof, with cotton being the preferred material. Furthermore, at least part of the closure element 16 is formed of a waterproof material, such as wax or a polymer. The at least one layer 38 determines an inwards-face 46a, an outwards-face 46h, and a closure-element-edge 48. If there are a plurality of layers, the layers meet at the closureelement-edge 48; the inner or innermost layer relative to the user determines the inwards-face whilst the outer or outermost layer determines the outwards-face. The layers may be connected such as by sewing or any suitable adhesive and/or may be integrally formed.

The hinge element 36 hingeably interconnects the closure element 16 and underwear body 12 of the briefs at or adjacent to the access-aperture 22b, specifically at or adjacent to the genital access 24a and/or rectal access 24b. The hinge element 36 may be one or more hinges which may be formed of plastics, metal, fabric, elastication, or a combination thereof However, the closure element 16 is preferably sewn to the underwear body 12, such that the hinge element 36 is a sewing engagement. The advantage of a sewing engagement is the ease and low cost of manufacture, as well as the absence of any hard parts having the potential to cause injury to either or both the user and the partner or partners.

The biasing means 40 utilises a biasing mechanism which biases at least a portion of the closure element 16 towards the closed condition. The biasing mechanism comprises one or more elasticated portions or elastic bands, although a non-elasticated length of string, fabric or other flexible elongate element may be an alternative. In this embodiment, the biasing means 40 is receivable, fastenable or, preferably, fastened with the closure element 16 at or adjacent to the closure-element-edge 48, in this case by being sewn to the closure element 16. Optionally, part of the biasing means may also be sewn to the underwear body. The biasing means 40 extends along at least part of a perimeter of the closure-element-edge 48. As the closure element 16 is at least in part pliable, the biasing means 40 causes the closure element 16 to form a cavity, cap, cup, or sac, for in-use cupping and contacting the partner's testicles 50.

The drainage means 42 is a portion or element which drains and/or captures and stores seminal fluid 52 during and/or after intercourse. The drainage means 42 may be a foam, a spongy body, or other suitable absorbing means or material. This feature reduces the risk of accidental semen spillage and thus, transmission of disease and/or conception. The drainage means may optionally have spermicidal properties, such as by being imbibed in a spermicidal fluid. The drainage means 42 is positioned around, at or adjacent to the aperture-edge 26b, as shown in Figure 2. Alternatively, the drainage means may be positioned in the condom element 14 and/or on the closure element 16, preferably but not necessarily, on the inwards-face 46a.

The pleasure-enhancing element 44 is the portion of the closure element 16 that in-use contacts, rubs, strokes or caresses the partner's groin area. The pleasure-enhancing element 44 is positioned at the closure-element-edge 48 and/or on the inwards-face 46a of the closure element 16. The simple act of the pleasure-enhancing element 44 contacting or cupping at least one of: the partner's testicles 50, clitoris, labia, perineum, and rectum, heightens the stimulation, thus enhances the sexual pleasure of the partner. The pleasure-enhancing element 44 is, in this case, the texture of the layer 38 of fabric, preferably stimulating fibres, caressing the genitalia and/or groin. However, the pleasure may alternatively or additionally be further enhanced by the pleasure-enhancing element 44 comprising at least one of: a rib, a projection, a bump, a lubricant, a gel, a vibration element, and a genital-contacting element. The gel may provide a heating sensation, or a cooling sensation.

The fastening means or fastening mechanism 18 allows for fastening or sealing the closure element 16 to the underwear body 12. The fastening means 18 comprises a first 30 engagement portion 54a and a second engagement portion 54b, engageable with the first engagement portion 54a. When the first engagement portion 54a is engaged with the second engagement portion 54b, the fastening means 18 is in a fastened condition. Conversely, when the first and second engagement portions 54a,54b are disengaged from each other, then the fastening means 18 is in an unfastened condition. The fastening means 18 may comprise at least one of: a hook and loop engagement, a zipper engagement, a button engagement, an adhesive engagement, a popper, a hook engagement, and any combination thereof. Preferably, the fastening means 18 provides a watertight or substantially watertight seal to prevent or inhibit spillage of semen post-intercourse, thereby enabling a safe disposal of any contaminated condom element 14.

The first engagement portion 54a is connectable or connected to the underwear body 12 and/or the condom module 13. The first engagement portion 54a may be positioned around, at, or, in this case, adjacent to the aperture-edge 26b. The second engagement portion 54b is positioned on the closure element 16. The second engagement portion 54b is positioned on at least one of the outwards-face 46b and the inwards-face 46a of the closure element 16, preferably the latter as shown in Figure 2. The first and second engagement portions 54a,54b are the hook and loop portions respectively of the hook and loop engagement, such as Velcro RTM, however the opposite may be envisaged.

In use, the user or wearer anticipating intercourse in the near-future puts on the underwear 10 ahead of any sexual interaction. He or she inserts each leg through the corresponding opening 20 and pulls up the underwear 10 such that the user's rear and part of the abdomen are received within the underwear body 12. Depending on the size and positioning of the access-aperture 22b of the underwear body 12, the user or wearer may need to select whether to provide access to the genital access 24a or to rectal access 24b, if access is not provided to both simultaneously.

The underwear 10 may be provided in a kit form or be fully formed with the condom module 13 in place. If in a kit form, the user may need to associate, insert, fasten, connect the condom module 13 to the underwear body 12. This step can be done either prior to or after putting on the underwear 10. Preferably, the condom module 13 is intact and/or sealed prior to being inserted into the underwear 10. If provided, the sealing flap or flaps are preferably intact. If using the condom module 13 with a detachable condom element 14, the condom element 14 needs to first be appropriately positioned and connected with the outer housing 27, for example by clamping. Preferably however, the condom element 14 is sealingly connected with the outer housing 27.

The user inserts the condom module 13 into the receiving cavity 23 such that the housing 27 fits snugly or substantially snugly within. The condom module 13 is positioned such 5 that at least part of an inward face of the housing 27 abuts or faces the secondary layer of fabric, whilst at least part of an outward face of the housing 27 and/or the condom element 14 abuts or faces the underwear body 12. Additionally, the access-aperture 22c of the condom module 13 is preferably aligned with and/or at least partly overlaps with the access-apertures 22a,22b. Thus the condom element 14 is mounted at or adjacent to 10 a user's vagina and/or rectum prior to a sexual experience The closure element 16 is, at this point, biased by the biasing means 40 into the closed condition. If provided with a fastening means 18, the user may also fasten the fastening means 18 such the underwear 10 is also in the fastened condition. The closure element 16 prevents or inhibits access to the condom element 14 by a partner of the user. The condom element 14 is folded and/or rolled up between the closure element 16 in the closed condition and the abdomen of the user as shown in Figure 6. Optionally, the condom element 14 may even be sealed or contained within a cavity formed by the sealing flaps.

At any point prior to foreplay and/or intercourse, the user may open the closure element 16. He or she may unfold and/or unroll the condom element 14, insert the condom element 14 into his or her vagina or rectum, before closing the closure element 16 again. Preferably however, the user may wait until the opportune moment in the lead up to intercourse, at which point the user or the partner of the user may insert the condom element 14, as this is more comfortable and practical for the user, for example when going to the toilet.

In the lead up to sexual intimacy, the fastening means 18, if provided and in the fastened condition, is moved from the fastened condition into the unfastened condition by disengaging the first engagement portion 54a from the second engagement portion 54b. The closure element 16 is moved, rotated, or actuated from the closed condition into the open condition, which is facilitated by the hinge element 36 as shown in Figure 7.

To do so, the user and/or partner or partners prevent or inhibit the biasing means 40 from biasing the closure element 16 towards the closed condition. Specifically, the user and/or partner imparts sufficient force to counteract a biasing force applied by the biasing means 40 to the closure element 16.

The underwear 10 are now in the open condition. If not previously done, the condom element 14 is unfolded or unrolled, then inserted through the vaginal access into the vagina and/or through the rectal access into the rectum of the user. This may be done manually by the user and/or by the partner, and may be done using a hand or penis or a penis element such as a strap-on device, to avoid getting lubricant on one's hand. If any are provided, the sealing flaps may need to be any of: opened, torn, ripped, and/or moved aside. The flaps may be formed of an easily tearable material such that penetration may be sufficient to tear the at least one flap, without requiring any hands. Unlike with a male condom, there is no reservoir which needs to be pinched when applying the condom element 14, which increases the ease and speed of application.

The user and partner or partners may decide to undergo foreplay prior to penetration, such as oral foreplay, particularly for the benefit of the user. Such foreplay is now safe due to the condom element 14 preventing any direct exchange of fluid between the relevant mucosa of all those involved.

If desired by all parties, the penis or penis element may be inserted into the internal cavity 32 of the condom element 14, itself received at least in part within the user. Throughout the duration of intercourse, the condom element 14 serves its purpose as a contraceptive and prophylactic aid. If provided with at least one pleasure-enhancer, the condom element 14 also enhances the pleasure of the user and/or partner or partners. If a vibration element, this may need to be turned on and/or appropriately positioned to enhance the sexual fulfilment of the user and/or the partner or partners.

During penetration, the biasing means 40 biases the closure element 16 towards the closed condition. However, as the partner's penis or penis element is received within the condom element 14, the partner's genitalia prevent or inhibit the closure element 16 from moving to the closed condition. Thus, during penetration, the pleasure-enhancing element 44 positioned on the inwards-face 46a of the closure element 16 is biased by the biasing means 40 into contacting the genitalia and/or groin of the partner as shown in Figure 8. Each thrust causes the pleasure-enhancing element 44 to caress the partner's groin and/or genitalia. Specifically, if the partner is male, the pleasure-enhancing element 44 contacts, at least intermittently, and in this case, cups the partner's testicles 50. If the 5 partner is female, the pleasure-enhancing element 44 and/or closure element 16 may rub or brush against at least one of: the clitoris, the labia majora, the labia minor, and the vaginal wall of the partner. In either case, the pleasure-enhancing element 44 and/or closure element 16 may alternatively or additionally contact and/or be at least partially insertable into the partner's anus and/or perineum, both of which have a high density of 10 sensory receptors, and thus constitute erotic zones to stimulate heightened arousal.

The underwear 10 therefore increases the intensity of the or each climax for, hopefully, both the user and the or all partners. Unlike a simple or traditional male condom, there is no requirement to immediately remove the penis or penis element from the condom element 14, should the user and partner or partners desire to continue experiencing physical intimacy post-coitus.

The penis or penis element is eventually fully withdrawn from the condom element 14. The user and/or the biasing means 40 biases the closure element 16 towards the closed position. The first and second engagement portions 54a,54b are engaged with each other to fasten the fastening means 18.

If the fastening means 18 is or is substantially liquid-tight, the fastening means 18 in the fastened condition prevents or inhibits leakage of seminal fluid 52 contained within the condom element 14, as shown in Figure 9. If the underwear garment 10 is provided with a drainage means 42, the drainage means 42 may drain and capture at least some semen or seminal fluid 52. These features are particularly beneficial if the user continues to wear the briefs 10 for a period of time afterwards, due to not having a spare change of clean underwear and/or if the partner or partners are carrying a venereal disease.

If the condom element 14 is reusable, as is the case here, the user may even keep the condom element 14 in place in anticipation of at least one further round of intercourse. The above steps would be repeated. If the partner is infected with a venereal disease however, the condom element 14 should not be re-used with another, non-infected partner, in order to reduce the risk of transmission of said disease.

The condom element 14 and/or the underwear garment 10 are eventually removed from the rectum and/or vagina, with the condom element 14 and/or module 13 sealed or 5 substantially sealed shut by the fastening means 18. If provided with sealing flaps, one or more of the sealing flaps may additionally or alternatively seal or re-seal the condom element 14 or at least the open end 28a thereof. The sealing flaps may even reform a cavity or sleeve to seal the condom element 14 therein. The outer housing 27 and/or the drainage means 42 may capture fluids, such as seminal or vaginal fluids. The underwear 10 10 or at least the condom element 14 and/or the condom module 13 may then be safely disposed of.

Although in this case, the closure element 16 is connected to the underwear body 12 by sewing stitches, the hinge element 36 may permit the closure element 16 to be detachably connectable to the underwear body 12. This may allow the user and/or partner or partners to select a closure element 16 having a specific pleasure-enhancing element 44 from a range of possible closure elements 16 and/or pleasure-enhancing elements 44.

Referring now to Figure 10, there is provided pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear 110 comprising an underwear body 112, a condom module having a condom element 114. The underwear also comprises an optional closure element 116, an optional secondary layer of fabric, not shown, and optional fastening means 118. Features of the second embodiment which are the same as those of the first embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix "1" added.

The underwear body 112 of the second embodiment of the garment is similar to the underwear body 12 of the first embodiment, having similar openings 120, access-aperture 122, and material properties. Detailed description of the common features is therefore omitted for brevity. For clarity, the outline of the underwear body 112 is indicated in dashed lines and is overlaid over the cut-away representation of the second embodiment of the pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear of Figure 10.

The condom module of the second embodiment is similar to the condom module of the first embodiment. Detailed description of the common features is omitted for brevity. The condom element 114 of the second embodiment is similar to the condom element 14 of the first embodiment, having similar material properties, an open end 128a, a closed end 128b, a condom wall 130 and optional condom-enhancer. Detailed description of the common features is omitted for brevity.

The condom element 114 in this embodiment differs in that the condom element 114 receives at least part of the user's genitalia, instead of being received internally by the user. In this embodiment, the user is preferably male, such that his penis is extends outwards, through the access-aperture 122 and into the outwardly-extending condom element 114.

Preferably the condom element 114 provides a tight or snug fit around at least the user's penis and optionally around the testicles 150. The condom element 114 may also be provided in this embodiment with a reservoir 156 to collect seminal fluid. The open end of the condom element may be connected along the entire extent of the aperture-edge for safety. For comfort however, the open end 128a of the condom element 114 is connected or sealed along only part of the aperture-edge 126, such that a gap 158 is formed between the condom element 114 and the underwear body 112. The condom element 114 may even be connected or connectable to the underwear body 112 via an elasticated portion or string, to help with application of the condom element 114. Preferably, said gap 158 is positioned at or adjacent to the testicles 150, in order to allow the testicles 150 to in-use hang out of the condom element 114. Said gap 158 may even help when applying the condom element 114 to the penis in-use.

The closure element 116 of the second embodiment is similar to the closure element 16 of the first embodiment, having similar material properties, at least one layer, inwards-face 146a, pleasure-enhancing element, outwards-face 146b, biasing means 140 and hinge element 136. Detailed description of the common features is omitted for brevity. In this embodiment, the closure element 116 contacts the user's testicles 150, rather than or in addition to a partner's genitalia and/or groin area.

The fastening means 118 of the second embodiment is similar to the fastening means 18 of the first embodiment, having at least one first engagement portion 154a and at least 30 one second engagement portion 154b. Detailed description of the common features is omitted for brevity. The or a further second engagement portion 154b may be positioned on the outwards-face 146b of the closure element 116. Similarly, the or a further first engagement portion 154a may be positioned on an inward-facing surface of the underwear body 112 and/or on the condom element 114. As the condom element 114 is 5 reversed by extending outwards, the seal created by the fastening means 118 needs to be on the inside of the underwear body 112. The closure element 116 may be fully rotatable about the hinge element 136 and/or is attachable on either side of the underwear body 112. The gap 158 may even be dimensioned so as to permit this rotation. If provided, the drainage means 142 is preferably positioned on at least one of: within the internal 10 cavity 132, on the outwards-face 146b of the closure element 116, or inward facing on the underwear body 112.

The uses of the second embodiment are similar to the uses of the first embodiment. Thus detailed description of the steps is omitted for brevity. The uses of the second embodiment differ from the uses of the first embodiment as follows.

The user, preferably when in a non-aroused condition, puts on the underwear 110 and positions the or any number of access-apertures 122 at or adjacent or around his penis. The testicles 150 may also be brought outwards, through the or any number of the access-apertures 122 and the gap 158, such that they are freely-hanging between the underwear body 112 and the closure element 116. At the opportune moment, the closure element 116 is opened, and if not already done, the penis and testicles 150 are brought through the or any number of access-apertures 122 and the gap 158. The reservoir 156 is pinched and the condom element 114 is unrolled onto the user's erect penis. The biasing means 140 then biases the closure element 116 towards the closed condition such that user's testicles 150 are contacted and/or cupped by the closure element 116.

The closure element 116 may also contact the partner's groin and/or genitalia in addition to the user's, for sensory stimulation of both parties.

Following intercourse and removal of the underwear 110, the closure element 116 may be rotated about the hinge element 136. In this case, the closure element is rotated through the gap 158. The second engagement portion 154b on the outwards-face 146b of the closure element 116 is engaged with the first engagement portion 154a on the inside of the underwear body 112 and/or on the condom element 114 to create the seal.

Preferably, the user in the first embodiment is female, and the or each partner is male and vice-versa in the second embodiment. However, any combination may be envisaged in either case. For instance, the user may be male, hermaphrodite or transgender in the first embodiment; transgender, hermaphrodite, or female, for instance with a strap-on in the second embodiment. The or at least one of the partners in either embodiment may be female, male, or transgender.

Although in this embodiment, the condom element 14;114 is preferably fastened to the underwear body 12;112, it may be envisaged instead that the condom element may be separably fastenable to the underwear body, for example to allow a used condom element to be replaced with an unused condom element thereby enabling the underwear to be reusable. This reduces the environmental impact of throwing away single-use underwear. Alternatively, the condom element may be integrally formed with the underwear body, for example to provide a continuous surface, thereby reducing the risk of the condom element tearing and/or to appeal more to those with a taste for more risque practices.

In this case, the underwear body 12;112 has three apertures or openings 20;120 for respectively receiving the abdomen and each leg. It may be envisaged however that the underwear body may have a different number of openings or apertures. For instance, there may be only one aperture, such that the underwear body is a strap around the abdomen.

Alternatively, the briefs underwear body may be a deep, one-piece V-shaped garment, covering the crotch and extending up to form shoulder straps. This is also commonly known as a mankini, and therefore the aforedescribed waistband aperture would be adapted to receive the user's neck.

The underwear body may be openable for ease of putting on. As such, one or more slits 25 or splits which are closeable by one or more releasable fasteners, such as a zipper and/or press-studs, can be envisaged.

Furthermore, it could be envisaged that tights, such as fishnet tights, may be attachable or attached to the openings of the underwear body, such that the legs extend into the said tights.

Although here the access-apertures 22a,22b,22c;122 provide access to the genitalia and the rectum, it may be envisaged that the access-aperture may only provide access to either the genitalia or the rectum but not both. The underwear body may be configured such that the garment may be reversibly worn to be able to select whether the rectum or 5 the genitalia are accessible. Alternatively or additionally, the underwear body may have at least two access-apertures, one for each of the genitalia and the rectum. There may be more than one condom element connected or connectable with the underwear. Alternatively, one condom element may be formed such that it may have two closed ends and is insertable into both the vaginal access and the rectal access simultaneously, for 10 sexual fulfilment with a plurality of partners.

In the second embodiment, the closed end 128b of the condom element 114 comprises a tip cavity or reservoir 156 for receiving seminal fluid 52, and/or is at least partially rounded, whilst in the first embodiment, the closed end 28b is devoid of these features. However, it is appreciated that these features may easily be included in either or neither embodiment.

In this case, the biasing means 40;140 is an elasticated portion sewn to the closure element 16;116, and gathers the closure element 16;116. Alternatively, the closure element may be formed of panels of fabric, so shaped and sewn together to form a cavity naturally without requiring the aid of any biasing means. It could further be envisaged that the elasticated portion may be moveable, such as through eyelets and/or a fold at or adjacent to the edge of the closure element. Thus, the user or partner may actively move or pull the elasticated portion to bias the closure element into forming a cavity.

The biasing means may be an elastic band connected or connectable to the closure element and which is positioned to surround at least one of: the penis, the testicles, the waist of the partner, and/or be connected to an in-use cockring device and/or cavity insertion device, such as an anal plug, and/or to an underwear garment worn by the partner.

It may further be envisaged instead that the biasing means may comprise at least one spring or spring element, such as sprung metal, an extension spring, or a torsion spring. 30 Said at least one spring may be associated with or held internally with the hinge element.

Alternatively, the at least one spring and/or the elasticated portion may have a first-end and a second-end, wherein the first-end is connected or connectable to the underwear body, and the second-end is connected or connectable to the closure element.

Whilst not the case in either of the above-described embodiments due to the risk of injury, 5 in an alternative embodiment, the closure element may be at least partly rigid, by being formed of a rigid material and/or having a rigid layer and /or wire, e.g. at or adjacent to and around an extent of the closure-element-edge, or extending substantially along a longitudinal and/or latitudinal extent of the closure element, to improve the biasing of the closure element by the biasing means. The rigid material may be cardboard, plastics, 10 fabric, metal, or any combination thereof or any other substantially rigid material.

Although the underwear 10;110 is formed of cotton, other materials may be envisaged, such as wool, such as from sheep or from alpaca for softness, feathers, fur, silk and/or velvet to provide a sensation of luxury and a range of textures. Additionally or alternatively, at least one polymeric material such as elastane, leather, rubber, latex, metal and/or plastics, such as spikes, may be envisaged for providing liquid-proofing and/or for a more adventurous user, particularly a user with a penchant for BDSM.

Optionally, the pleasure-enhancing element and/or the closure element may be detachably connectable to the inwards-face and/or the underwear body respectively for providing a choice of pleasure-enhancing closure elements, textures, or stimulation.

Whilst the underwear 10;110 of the present embodiments are designed to provide a contraceptive barrier when a condom module 13 is used, it may be envisioned that the underwear in an alternative embodiment may be adapted for use during menstruation. Such underwear may be referred to as menstrual underwear. In such an alternative embodiment, a sanitary towel module may be used instead of or in addition to the condom module. Such a sanitary towel module may be shaped and dimensioned to be removably receivable within the cavity in the secondary layer of fabric, and formed of suitable materials to capture and hold menstrual flow. In order to fulfil its function properly, the sanitary towel module preferably does not have an access-aperture, unless it is to be used with a condom module. Furthermore, the underwear body may also not necessitate an access-aperture in this embodiment, to further prevent accidental removal of the sanitary towel module therethrough Whilst the closure element 16;116 is preferably an ellipse, other shapes may be possible, such as square, rectangular, any other polygon, circular, partly curved, tapered, egg-5 shaped, leaf-shaped or any other shape.

The fastening means 18;118 is an optional feature and may be omitted in either embodiment. It may be envisaged instead for instance that the underwear body and the closure element each have a protrusion or lip, preferably continuous, formed of a waterproof material, such as plastics or wax. When the protrusions are in contact with each other, such as when the closure element is biased into the closed condition, the protrusions form a watertight seal or sealing element. This alternative sealing element is advantageous as less painful than hook and loop fastening means.

Although the pleasure-enhancer is associated with the condom element in this case, the or at least one of the pleasure-enhancers may instead be associated, connected or connectable with the underwear body. The positioning of the fastening means 18;118 on either or both the closure element 16;116 and the underwear body 12;112 may potentially result in chafing and/or pain to the user and/or more likely, the partner. For instance, the fastening means 118, and especially an adhesive or hook portion, may trap pubic hair and/or graze the loose-hanging testicles swinging with every thrust. Whilst some may enjoy pain to augment the intensity of the climax, most users and partners may prefer to avoid the pain. To this effect, the fastening means may be removably connectable with the underwear and/or coverable. For instance, separate loose strips or engagement portions of a fastening means may be engaged with the corresponding engagement portions to inhibit or prevent direct contact with the hooks or sticking portions. The closure-element-edge may even be foldable to cover up the second fastening portion during intercourse. Alternatively the second fastening portion may be positioned around the closure-element-edge on the outwards-face such that during intercourse, the second engagement portion may not contact the genitalia. Post-intercourse, the closure-elementedge may then be folded to allow the second engagement portion to face the first engagement portion.

It is therefore possible to provide a garment, underwear, pants, or briefs which reduce the risk of an unplanned pregnancy and transmitting one or more sexual diseases if a partner has a venereal disease. By providing protection which may be applied prior to intercourse, this invention empowers the wearer and removes or reduces the awkwardness, the risk 5 of improper application and the pause involved in removing a condom from its packet and applying it during the build-up. The invention also allows the wearer to have multiple rounds of intercourse, particularly with a closure element forming a seal, and a drainage means for capturing and thereby reducing seminal fluid spillage. The multifunctional closure element also enhances the user and/or partner's sexual pleasure by caressing 10 the user and/or partner's genitalia during the intercourse.

The words 'comprises/comprising' and the words having/including' when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.

Claims (21)

1. Claims 1. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear comprising: an underwear body having a genital access and/or a rectal access; a condom element at the said genital access and/or rectal access; a closure element at or adjacent to the genital access and/or rectal access, the closure element being openable and closeable for respectively permitting and inhibiting access to the condom element; biasing means for biasing at least a portion of the closure element towards a closed condition, and a pleasure-enhancing element at or adjacent to at least part of the closure element for enhancing sexual pleasure of a partner and/or a user.
2. 2 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear; as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pleasure-enhancing element comprises at least one of: a rib, a projection, a bump, a lubricant, a gel, a vibration element, a texture, and a genital-contacting element.
3. 3 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element is detachably connectable to the underwear body.
4. 4 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in claim 3, wherein said detachable closure element is selectable from a plurality of different said detachable closure elements.
5. 5 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a hinge element which hingeably interconnects the closure element and underwear body at or adjacent to the genital access and/or rectal access.
6. 6 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in claim 5, wherein the hinge element includes at least one of: metal, plastics, and fabric.
7. 7 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element is at least in part rigid.
8. 8 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the biasing means comprises at least one of: an elasticated portion, and a spring.
9. 9 Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a condom-enhancer which comprises at least one of: a rib, a projection, a bump, a lubricant, a gel, a tightening element, stimulating fibres, and a vibration element.
10. 10. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fastening means for fastening the closure element to the underwear body.
11. 11. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in claim 10, wherein the fastening means comprises at least one of: a hook and loop engagement, a zipper engagement, a button engagement, an adhesive engagement, a popper, and a hook engagement.
12. 12. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the condom element has an open end, which is sealingly connectable to the underwear body.
13. 13. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the condom element is integrally formed with the underwear body.
14. 14. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the underwear further comprises a condom module which comprises said condom element.
15. 15. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in claim 14, further comprising a receiving cavity, the said condom module being removably receivable within the receiving cavity.
16. 16. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in claim 15, further comprising a sanitary towel module receivable within the receiving cavity.
17. 17. Pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the closure element and the underwear body has a drainage means for draining and/or capturing semen during and/or after intercourse.
18. 18.A method of enhancing pleasure and providing contraception for a user, the method comprising the steps of: a] providing pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of the preceding claims; b] opening the closure element; c] inserting either the penis of the user into the condom element such that the condom element projects outwards, or inserting the penis of a partner into the condom element such that the condom element is received internally by the user during intercourse; and d] a biasing means biasing the closure element into contacting or substantially contacting at least one of the user and the partner's genitalia and/or rectum and/or perineum during intercourse for enhancing the user and/or partner's pleasure.
19. 19.A method of providing pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear for a user as claimed in claim 18, further comprising a step e] of providing a fastening element for fastening the closure element to the underwear body such that, when fastened, the closure element prevents or inhibits spillage of semen contained within the condom element.
20. 20.A method of improving a sexual experience using pleasure-enhancing contraceptive and prophylactic underwear as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, the method comprising the steps of: a] mounting a condom element at or adjacent to a user's vagina and/or rectum prior to a sexual experience, and b] the underwear sexually stimulating one or all of the parties during coupling.
21. 21. Menstrual underwear comprising an underwear body, a receiving cavity, and a sanitary towel module removably receivable within said receiving cavity.