Types of Male condoms & Safe Lubes to Use with Them
Here’s a breakdown of each condom type and safe lubes to use with them.
Latex
Why are latex condoms so great?
Effective at preventing STIs, HIV, and unplanned pregnancy
Less likely to break or slip off than other condom materials
Most common condom material
Less expensive than other condom materials
Easy to find in stores
What are some possible downsides to latex condoms?
Some people are allergic to latex
WARNING! Latex condoms are only safe to use with water-based and silicone-based lubes.
Polyurethane
Why are polyurethane condoms so great?
Effective at preventing STIs, HIV, and unplanned pregnancy
Can use if you have a latex allergy
Warms up with your body temperature
What are some possible downsides to polyurethane condoms?
More likely to break or slip off than latex
More expensive than other condom materials
Polyurethane condoms can be used with water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based lubes!
Polyisoprene
Why are polyisoprene condoms so great?
Effective at preventing STIs, HIV, and unplanned pregnancy
Can use if you have a latex allergy
Cheaper than polyurethane
What are some possible downsides to polyisoprene condoms?
More expensive than latex
WARNING! Polyisoprene condoms are only safe to use with water-based and silicone-based lubes.
Caution
Natural/lambskin condoms are NOT recommended because of tiny pores that can let HIV and STIs through.
NEVER use oil-based lubes (like baby oil or lotion) with latex or polyisoprene condoms since oil weakens the materials and makes the condoms more likely to break. With a broken condom, you can be exposed to fluids that transmit HIV and STIs and increase the risk for unplanned pregnancy.