Condoms

Condoms are barrier contraceptives worn over the penis or inserted into the vagina or anus during sex. They physically block the exchange of bodily fluids, which reduces the transmission of sexually transmitted infections and prevents pregnancy. Condoms are the only contraceptive method that provides dual protection against both STIs and pregnancy.

Why Choose Condoms

1. The only contraceptive that reduces STI transmission. Condoms physically block contact between mucous membranes and prevent fluid exchange. No other contraceptive method provides this protection. For people having sex with new or multiple partners, condoms are the most important tool for STI prevention regardless of what other contraception is used.
2. Effective pregnancy prevention when used correctly. External condoms used consistently and correctly are highly effective at preventing pregnancy. Combining condoms with another contraceptive method increases this effectiveness further.
3. No prescription or medical intervention required. Condoms are available without a prescription and require no hormonal changes, medical appointments, or ongoing health monitoring. They are used only when needed with no systemic effect on the body.
4. Wide variety to suit different preferences and needs. Condoms vary in size, material, thickness, texture, and lubrication. Thin condoms transmit more sensation, textured condoms add friction for one or both partners, and non-latex condoms suit people with latex allergies. Finding the right type makes a significant difference to comfort and sensation during sex.
5. Essential for safe toy use and anal sex. Condoms placed over sex toys allow toys to be shared hygienically between partners or used between the anus and vagina in the same session without cross-contamination. For anal sex, condom use is particularly important for STI prevention as anal tissue is more susceptible to micro-tears that allow infection.

Types of Condoms

External condoms (commonly called male condoms) are rolled onto an erect penis before sex. They are the most widely used condom type and are available in a greater variety of styles, sizes, and materials than any other type. Most are made from latex. Browse the full lubes collection to find compatible lubricants to use alongside condoms.

Internal condoms (commonly called female condoms) are inserted into the vagina or anus before sex. They line the inside of the body rather than covering the penis. They can be inserted up to several hours before sex, giving the person being penetrated control over protection. They are typically made from polyurethane or nitrile, making them suitable for people with latex allergies.

Latex condoms are the most common and most tested condom material. They are strong, flexible, and effective against both STIs and pregnancy. They require water-based or silicone-based lubricant and must not be used with oil-based lubricants, which degrade latex and cause breakage.

Non-latex condoms include polyisoprene and polyurethane options. Polyisoprene feels softer and more like latex without the latex proteins that cause allergic reactions. Polyurethane is thinner than latex and compatible with oil-based lubricants. Both provide STI and pregnancy protection. See the full water-based lubes collection for lubricants safe with all condom types.

Natural membrane condoms (lambskin) are made from animal intestine and are effective at preventing pregnancy but do not protect against STIs because the material contains tiny pores that allow viral particles to pass through. They are used by people who want a more natural feel and are not concerned about STI transmission.

Ultra-thin condoms are manufactured with thinner walls than standard condoms while maintaining the same protective effectiveness. They transmit more sensation during sex, which many people find significantly improves the experience compared to standard thickness.

Textured condoms have ribbed or dotted surfaces designed to increase friction and sensation for one or both partners during vaginal or anal sex. The texture is on the outside of the condom and affects the sensation felt by the receiving partner.

Flavoured condoms are designed for oral sex and are available in a range of flavours. They provide a barrier during oral sex on a penis, reducing STI transmission risk. Flavoured condoms should not be used for vaginal sex as flavouring agents can disrupt vaginal pH and cause irritation.

Lubricated condoms come pre-coated with a small amount of water-based lubricant. This reduces friction and makes the condom easier to put on and remove. Additional lubricant can be applied to the outside of a lubricated condom during sex to further reduce friction.

Condoms Selection Guide

Who Buys Condoms

Condoms are used by anyone having penetrative sex who wants protection against STIs, pregnancy, or both. They are particularly important for people with new partners, people with multiple partners, and anyone unsure of their own or a partner's STI status.

People with latex allergies buy non-latex condoms as the only viable barrier option. Finding a non-latex condom that fits well and feels comfortable requires trying a few different options, as polyisoprene and polyurethane behave differently from latex in terms of stretch and feel.

People who use sex toys with partners buy condoms to use over toys for hygienic sharing and to allow toys to be switched between anal and vaginal use without full cleaning between. This is a practical and widely recommended approach to toy hygiene during sex.

Condoms are also bought by people who want to add lubrication to sex without switching to a different contraceptive method. Pre-lubricated condoms reduce friction and can improve comfort and sensation, particularly for vaginal sex where natural lubrication varies.

Choosing Condoms

Size affects both safety and sensation. A condom that is too tight is more likely to break. A condom that is too loose may slip off during sex. Most standard condoms are designed for an average penis circumference. If standard condoms feel tight, look for condoms specifically labelled as wider or larger. If they feel loose, look for snugger fit options.

Material determines lubricant compatibility. Latex and polyisoprene condoms must only be used with water-based or silicone-based lubricants. Oil-based lubricants, including massage oils, coconut oil, and petroleum jelly, degrade latex and polyisoprene and cause condoms to break. Polyurethane condoms are compatible with all lubricant types.

Check the expiry date. Condoms degrade over time. An expired condom is more likely to break during sex. Store condoms away from heat, direct sunlight, and sharp objects. Wallets are a poor storage option as body heat and friction weaken the packaging and the condom itself over time.

Spermicide-coated condoms are not recommended for regular use. The spermicide nonoxynol-9 can irritate vaginal and anal tissue with repeated use, which can actually increase STI risk by creating micro-tears in tissue. Standard lubricated condoms are a better choice for regular use.

Looking After Your Condoms

Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Check the expiry date before every use. Do not use a condom that has passed its expiry date, has a damaged wrapper, or has been stored in a wallet or hot environment for an extended period.

Open condom packaging carefully without using scissors, teeth, or sharp fingernails that could tear the condom before use. Check the condom for damage before rolling it on. Hold the tip of the condom to expel air before rolling it down the full length of the penis. This reduces the risk of the condom breaking from air pressure during sex.

Remove the condom immediately after sex, before the penis becomes fully soft, to prevent slippage. Hold the base of the condom during withdrawal. Wrap the used condom in tissue and dispose of it in a bin. Never flush condoms down the toilet and never reuse a condom.

Goes Well With

Water-based lubricant is the safest and most universally compatible lubricant to use with condoms. Apply lubricant to the outside of the condom after it is on, and to the vagina or anus. Avoid applying lubricant to the penis before putting the condom on as this can cause the condom to slip. Water-based lube can be reapplied during sex as needed.

For anal sex with condoms, a thicker water-based lubricant or a silicone-based lubricant provides longer-lasting coverage and reduces the friction that can cause condom breakage. The anus does not self-lubricate, making generous lube application essential every time.

Dental dams used alongside condoms provide barrier protection during oral sex on a vulva or anus. Both dental dams and condoms together give comprehensive oral and penetrative protection for people focused on STI prevention.

Read Up

For practical guidance on anal sex including condom use, lubrication, and how to make anal sex more comfortable and safer, read the Lovva guide on how to make anal sex more comfortable. The advice applies regardless of gender or orientation and covers safe sex practices alongside preparation and technique.

Shop Condoms

Lovva stocks a range of condoms including latex, non-latex, ultra-thin, textured, flavoured, and lubricated options. All orders ship in discreet, unbranded packaging worldwide. Browse the full condoms collection above to find the right type for your needs.