Condoms are the most effective way to protect yourself against STDs and STIs. That's why, if you're under 26, you can get condoms from a pharmacy for free and without a prescription. However, there's a good chance those ‘standard’ condoms won't be the best fit for you. So we recommend choosing yours carefully, based on the size and sensitivity of your penis. Here's how to choose condoms that offer both comfort and protection.
What they're made of 🧪
When shopping for condoms, latex is often the first thing we reach for. However, this material is fairly thick and can dull sensations during sex. It also has quite a strong smell and can cause allergic reactions in some people. We'd suggest looking instead at:
- Polyurethane condoms: ultra-thin, odourless and stronger than latex
- Sensoprene condoms: not as thin as polyurethane condoms, but more comfortable
Size 📏
The better a condom fits, the more comfortable it'll be. Remember, to be effective, it needs to cover the whole penis. So measure up and choose the right size, without worrying about S, M or L labels: they're just a guide (we know by now that size isn't what matters, right!)
Lubrication 💧
Almost all condoms are lubricated with silicone. So be careful if you want to use one on a toy, as the silicone is very likely to make it porous! Vegetable oil-based lubes, meanwhile, are completely incompatible with condoms. So opt for a silicone-based or water-based lube. If you're unsure, here's an article explaining how to choose your lube. And a little tip: if you want to use a condom for oral sex, we recommend an unlubricated one, because silicone doesn't taste or feel great in your mouth...
Now you know everything you need to choose your condoms, you've got no excuse not to use them with future partners. 😌
Lou ✨
Hi, I'm Lou! I have a degree in social sciences and humanities and have been interested in all things sex-related for a few years now. After taking several courses, including one with sexologist Mathilde Magnien, Passage du Désir asked me to write articles for you about sex, love and relationships. My motto? Get people talking about sexual wellbeing in a light-hearted, fun and supportive way. 💜
Lou ✨
Hi, I'm Lou! I have a degree in humanities and social sciences, and I've been interested in sexuality for several years. After completing several training courses, including one with sexologist Mathilde Magnien, Passage du Désir asked me to write articles for you about sexuality, love and relationships. My motto? Get people talking openly about sexual wellbeing, with a light-hearted, fun and supportive approach. 💜
