Condoms made out of tough hydrogels might one day save lives, reduce unplanned pregnancies, and make safe sex a pleasure. A research team from the University of Wollongong is working to replace latex with the biomaterial, which is similar to the kind used in contact lenses. According to a release, the self-lubricated substance possesses a stiffness similar to body tissues, allowing it to potentially confer greater sensitivity. Led by Dr. Robert Gorkin, the team plans to identify potential hydrogels and a suitable material composition before examining their breaking strength, toughness, feel, permeability, and other properties.