When it comes to safe sex practices, using condoms has always been first on the list. Also known as a love glove, sheath, and rubber, it’s a physical barrier to prevent direct contact with genitals during sex. It is worn on the penis or inserted in the vagina.
Most condom brands use latex for its stretchiness, strength, and cost-effectiveness. And though there’s nothing wrong with latex being the main material, it’s bad news for people with latex allergies. When the latex condom has come into contact with an allergic individual, they may expect rashes, a lot of sneezing, hives, skin inflammation, and breathing issues.
Does that mean they should have sex without condoms?
Nope! Unless they’re in a monogamous relationship where one person uses a highly effective birth control method and they’ve already taken an STI test before any sexual activity, then condoms are still a must. Remember, condoms are the only available contraceptives to protect you from sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.
Fortunately, condom brands have addressed this need and now offer latex-free options. Below are some types of condoms people with latex allergies can use for their sexcapades.
1Polyurethane Condoms
This type of condom is made with Polyurethane, a flexible and water-resistant plastic used for products such as diapers, medical gloves, sportswear, etc.
Pros
- Less affected when exposed to prolonged heat.
- Odorless compared to the other condoms.
- Thinner compared to other alternatives.
- It is looser than latex and non-latex condoms, which is better for peeps who don’t light the tight fit of other condoms.
Cons
- Slightly expensive than latex and polyisoprene condoms
- Since they are looser, it has higher chances of slipping off during the deed.
- They are less stretchy than latex, increasing their risk of breakage during sex.
- If they slip off, they’re less effective in protecting against STIs and unintended pregnancies.
Condom Brands that Carry This Type: Pasante, Okamoto, and Trojan
2Polyisoprene Condoms
If we rank the latex-free alternatives, this might take the top spot. Polyisoprene condoms are actually using the same type of rubber that latex uses. But what makes it allergy-friendly is it doesn’t come with the natural proteins that are the source of most latex allergies. It has the same stretch and feels as a regular latex condom, just without the allergic effects!
Pros
- More affordable than polyurethane condoms.
- Stretchy and comfortable to wear.
Cons
- More expensive and thicker than latex condoms
Condom Brands that Carry This Type: SKYN and Durex
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₱150.00 -
₱150.00 -
₱150.00
3Nitrile Condoms
Also known as female or internal condoms, nitrile condoms are made with synthetic rubber material that easily warms up to body temperature. Aside from being hypoallergenic, they’re larger than male condoms, which gives your or your partner’s penis some space, which some people prefer.
Pros
- Compatible with water, silicone, or oil-based lubricants.
- Slightly more affordable than polyurethane condoms.
Cons
- Not necessarily a con, but it can only be used by female individuals, which means you can’t use it if your female partner doesn’t like inserting something in her vagina during sex.
Condom Brands that Carry This Type: FC2, So Sexy
4Lambskin Condoms
As the name implies, this type of condom is made from the intestinal membrane of a lamb. It’s not the most convenient non-latex option, but some prefer it as it enhances sensations and feels more natural than latex condoms.
However, it’s the least effective non-latex condom when it comes to prevention against sexually transmitted infections like HIV and chlamydia since the material is too porous. It’s up to you if you want to go for this one, but it’ll be better if you use it with another birth control method.
Pros
- Feels more natural than latex condoms
- Biodegradable
- Compatible with all types of lubricants.
Cons
- The most expensive type of condom.
- Less effective in STI protection.
- Not as stretchy as the other latex and non-latex condoms.
- Reviews say it has a weird appearance and smell to it.
Condom Brand that Carry This Type: Trojan
Takeaway
Whether you’re active on hookups or in a monogamous relationship, always keep yourself protected— don’t ever sacrifice your sexual health for a couple of orgasms.
Besides, you’re now in the know about latex-free condom options, so we hope you’ll figure out which latex-free condom would work for your body. We also recommend sharing this guide with a friend who may need it. Stay informed, stay protected, and here’s to exciting sex-ventures ahead!
