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What are the best condoms? Our sex writers weigh in
Materials, size, spermicide: here's EYNTK
We've come a long way when it comes to sexual health. Gone are the days of having only two condom brands to choose from, with products locked in plastic boxes that you have to sheepishly bring up to the counter. Safe sex is now, well, sexy, and there are a ton of cool brands to choose from.
A quick return to sex ed 101: condoms are one of the only contraceptive methods that will protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While hormonal contraception can prevent pregnancy, only barrier methods — like the male condoms reviewed here — will limit the sharing of conditions like chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HPV.
They're also great for protecting your delicate microbiome from bacterial imbalances. Both thrush and bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be caused by the mixing of your juices with someone else's.
As mentioned, there is plenty of choice when it comes to adult sleeping bags. But to save you time scrolling, our sex writers reveal the best on the market for 2024 — and some top tips for safe, satisfying sex.
The best condoms to shop now
What to consider when choosing a condom
Telling you to work out your personal preferences may seem like obvious advice, but every single one of us is different, and will desire different sizes, scents and/or textures.
However, one expert argues the most important thing to consider is your pH balance. CEO and Founder of MyBliss, Mo Carrier, says: “There are so many varieties of male condom — latex, non-latex, thick, ultra-thin, textured, flavoured, condoms with a water-based lubricant, condoms with a silicone oil lubricant and even ones that glow-in-the-dark.
“However, what I believe to be the most important is finding a product that is safe for vulvas and vaginas. Condoms are an internal use product, and even though a flavoured or scented condom sounds exciting, those are best used solely for oral sex."
Carrier continues: "Unnecessary chemicals like gluten, casein, glycerin, parabens, spermicide or fragrances can lead to vaginal irritation and even infections like thrush and UTIs."
She also shared her top tips for bringing up the subject with your partner, adding: “Many people feel embarrassed asking their partner to use a condom, especially if they’re on hormonal birth control.
"I suggest normalising condoms with your partner; have them permanently next to your bed or, if you’re staying at theirs, put your lube and condoms on his dresser before you get down to it."
The main types of condoms
First, let's all agree that sexual shame and judgement while shopping for condoms is no longer a thing. Rather, we should be celebrating people taking control of their playtime and, ultimately, pleasure.
Now that's out of the way, let's run through your oval options:
Latex
The standard type, made from the most common type of rubber. These tend to be slightly cheaper, widely available in stores like Boots or Superdrug, and are best paired with water-based lubricants to avoid tears.
Non-latex
If you weren't aware, latex allergies are fairly common, limiting your access to some rubbers. Two alternative materials often used are polyurethane and polyisoprene.
Textured
With ribs, dips and dots aplenty, textured condoms are all about maximising vaginal/anal stimulation. If you find additions on the outside of your condom, that's for the receiver's benefit. On the inside, that's for the wearer.
Flavoured
PSA: STIs like gonorrhoea, genital herpes and HPV can be caught and shared via oral sex. Therefore, it is recommended you wrap up before pleasuring your partner. Your options include fresh mint, sweet strawberry and indulgent chocolate.
Delay Condoms
Tailored to men and people with penises who may be struggling with premature ejaculation (PE), delay condoms are often lined with supercharged lubricant — popular choices include 5% benzocaine or 1% lidocaine — designed to numb the tip to reduce overstimulation.
Also falling into this category are extended pleasure condoms — slightly thicker sleeves that limit sensation — and mutual pleasure condoms that include the same desensitising lube, but also come with ribs and dots for the receiver's satisfaction.
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