A latex allergy doesn't have to get in the way of you having a great time in the bedroom. You can still have an amazing sex life with a latex allergy — you just have to be aware of what precautions you need to take and what products you need to use in order to have sex safely.
Here's what you need to know about latex-free condoms and having safe sex with a latex allergy.
Typical condoms are made of latex, which is a no-go for people with latex allergies. Thankfully, there are a few different options for people with latex allergies. These condoms all have their own unique characteristics. Here are four options safe for you to use.
This type of condom comes with added benefits besides being latex-free: It's even thinner than latex condoms and heats up more rapidly, which can make for a more pleasurable experience during sex, says Felice Gersh, MD, OB-GYN and founder/director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine.
They also have no odor. However, there is a downside to polyurethane condoms. Gersh says they may be less effective at protecting against STIs and pregnancy since they are slightly less stretchy, which means they are more prone to tearing and dislocation. You can get a box of six Trojan Supra Non-Latex BareSkin Lube Condoms for $6.99.
This material is not as thin as polyurethane, so some may find it less desirable. However, they have lower rates of breakage and slippage, Gersh says, which makes them more effective at preventing STIs and pregnancy. You can get a box of 10 Durex Real Feel Avanti Bare Polyisoprene Non-Latex Condoms for $7.95.
Lambskin condoms are a more natural option. They are made from a membrane found inside of lamb.
Gersh says they are very comfortable and work well to prevent pregnancies. However, they do not protect against STIs due to microscopic holes in the membrane that may be big enough for certain viruses to pass through.
Lambskin condoms are a bit pricier than the others. You can get a box of three Trojan Naturalamb Latex Free Lubricated Condoms for $8.69.
These condoms are typically made out of polyurethane or nitrile and are worn inside of the vagina. They can even be inserted a few hours prior to having sex, if you'd like, says Gersh.
Female condoms are effective at reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. But they are also a little pricier. You can get a box of six Pasante Female Condoms for $10.99.
There are three main types of lube: water-based, oil-based, and silicone-based. The best type of lube to use with all condoms is water-based lube, says Rosara Torrisi, PhD, a certified sex therapist based in New York. This is because water-based lube is safe to use across the board, meaning it won't erode or react with the condom, regardless of what type of condom you are using.
Technically, you can use any type of lube with polyurethane condoms and lambskin condoms. The oil should not break down the material.
However, with polyisoprene condoms, you must use water-based lube. Gersh says oil can cause polyisoprene to deteriorate, so you should definitely avoid it.
Water-based Lube |
Oil-based Lube |
Silicone-based Lube |
|
Polyurethane condoms |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
Polyisoprene condoms |
✅ |
❌ |
❌ |
Lambskin condoms |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
Latex-free female condoms |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
"Oil-based lubes break down most condoms and that makes them less effective. Silicone-based lubes are debatable for condom or barrier safety, so if you want to err on the side of caution, stick with water-based lubes," says Torrisi.
Torrisi also recommends sticking with high-quality lube. Some of her favorite brands of high quality water-based lubes are Good Clean Love, Sliquid, and Slippery Stuff. "This is better for genital, anal, and oral health as well as keeping the integrity of barriers and toys or aids," says Torrisi.
Aside from using latex-free condoms, here are some more safety precautions you should know:
A latex allergy doesn't have to spoil all the fun. There are several latex-free male and female condoms that you can use for safe sex. If you're not sure which option is best for you, consult a doctor or healthcare provider.