| abstract |
An article having a main sheath portion formed of a flexible and/or elastic material closed at a distal end thereof and open at a proximal end thereof, with a first flange element formed of a flexible and elastic material, and having an aperture formed or pressure-formable therein, secured to the open proximal end of the sheath. In a single flange embodiment, the main sheath portion may be provided in a center-compacted configuration, for bidirectional application of the sheath. In a multi-flange embodiment, a second flange element is secured at an outer portion thereof to the first flange element and has an aperture formed or pressure-formable therein, in substantial alignment with the aperture of the first flange element, whereby the sheath is extended or extensible from a compacted state through the aperture in either the first or the second flange element. In a specific embodiment, the article comprises a condom which may be donned in either of two directions. Such bidirectionally donnable condom article is characterized by ease of use and improved safety and reliability, as compared to prior art condoms. |