There are many types of condoms available in various shapes, colors, and sizes. However, each type of condom has its own advantages and disadvantages. Refer to the best options for you and your partner.
Condoms are highly effective at preventing pregnancy and can reduce the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through skin-to-skin contact during oral, genital, or anal sex.
There are numerous condom types to choose from, including lubricated and ribbed varieties, as well as materials like latex or lambskin. You can even try flavored condoms or those that glow in the dark.
Below are some popular types along with their pros and cons:
Latex Condoms
Standard latex condoms are the most common type and a reliable choice for preventing pregnancy and STIs. This is because latex is a non-porous material that is easy to produce and inexpensive. When using latex condoms, avoid oil-based lubricants such as:
- Perfumed water
- Massage oils
- Baby oil
- Vaseline
Oil-based lubricants can break down latex, making these condoms less effective. Therefore, it’s best to choose water-based or silicone-based lubricants when using latex condoms.
If you notice any itching, redness, or rash after use, check if you are allergic to latex.
Non-Latex Condoms
If you are allergic to latex, you still have many options made from:
- Polyurethane
- Polyisoprene
- Lambskin
Polyurethane and polyisoprene condoms are made from synthetic materials and effectively prevent pregnancy and STIs. Synthetic condoms can also work well with both oil-based and water-based lubricants.
Lambskin condoms can also be used with either type of lubricant. They are effective in preventing pregnancy, but they are not recommended for protection against STIs or HIV.
Condoms are highly effective at preventing pregnancy and can reduce the risk of transmitting STIs. (Illustrative image).
Internal Condoms
Internal condoms, also known as female condoms, are inserted into the vagina.
Because they are more difficult to insert, internal condoms are only 79% effective in practice. To avoid pregnancy, it’s best to combine them with another form of contraception, such as birth control pills or an IUD (intrauterine device).
The greatest benefit of internal condoms is that they allow individuals with vaginas to have better control over their sexual health. Additionally, you can insert the condom up to eight hours before intercourse, so you won’t have to pause to put on a condom when things heat up.
Just make sure not to use them with external condoms as that increases the risk of breakage for both partners.
Lambskin Condoms
Lambskin condoms are made from animal intestinal membranes. Although this material can provide a more natural feel or enhance sensitivity during sex, it is also much more porous.
The holes in lambskin are large enough for some STIs, like HIV or herpes, to pass through directly. Therefore, they do not protect against STIs and are less effective at preventing pregnancy. Unless they are the only type available, it’s best to avoid these products if there are other options.
Flavored Condoms
Flavored condoms are an easy way to add a little novelty to the bedroom, especially if you or your partner dislike the taste of latex during oral sex. Essentially, they are like high-quality latex condoms, except they are coated with a delicious flavoring.
This type is also safe for vaginal intercourse, but if you notice any vaginal irritation, switch to a different condom next time.
Glow-in-the-Dark Condoms
Glow-in-the-dark condoms are usually made from latex. Therefore, they are just as effective as your regular condoms. It all depends on personal preference; safety is not an issue.
Ribbed Condoms
While browsing the condom aisle, you may see boxes claiming to enhance pleasure due to their unique designs and shapes. Often, this means their surface is ribbed, providing additional texture on the outside.
These types of condoms are designed to increase stimulation and, depending on their placement, can provide pleasure for either partner. However, if your genitals are quite sensitive, you may find ribbed or textured condoms irritating. One way to reduce friction is to use lubricant.
Each type of condom has its own advantages and disadvantages. (Illustrative image).
Spermicidal Condoms
Some condoms contain spermicide, a chemical that immobilizes and kills sperm. This chemical is itself 79% effective at preventing pregnancy and comes in various forms such as creams, foams, gels, and films.
Additionally, to maximize contraceptive efficacy, some manufacturers coat the outside of the condom with spermicide. This chemical can cause irritation or allergic reactions, so it’s best to use condoms that do not contain spermicide.
Thin or Ultra-Thin Condoms
Thin or ultra-thin condoms are just as their name implies: they are made with slightly less material. Many people prefer these as a contraceptive method because they do not completely diminish sensation.
However, these types of condoms are often more prone to breaking due to heat, friction, and the use of oil-based lubricants.
Lubricated Condoms
These types of condoms come with lubricant already included. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about bringing your own lubricant or figuring out if your lubricant is compatible with these condoms.
Lubricated condoms also reduce friction due to vaginal dryness. This can help prevent irritation and reduce the chances of the condom breaking or tearing.
“Tingling” Condoms
Thanks to the addition of specially formulated lubricants, this type offers a “tingling” sensation for one or both partners. Some people find this subtle tingling extremely pleasurable, while others may find it uncomfortable or hardly noticeable – it’s all a matter of personal preference.
Moreover, most versions of this type of condom use mint-flavored lubricant to achieve the desired effect, meaning they may also have a taste or scent that is more pleasant than regular latex condoms.
Condoms can be made from various materials such as latex, nitrile, and lambskin. Additionally, there are novelty types, including glow-in-the-dark ones or those that are infused with fragrance.
If you experience irritation from a specific type of condom, it’s best to try a different condom or an alternative method of contraception. Each type of condom has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you should decide which one is best for you and your partner.
