There are currently only four kinds of non-latex condoms on the market for people with latex allergies. Below are descriptions of each product, along with links for comparison shopping. Because non-latex condoms do not provide the same protection as latex condoms, they are only recommended for people with latex allergies.
Read more about the effectiveness of non-latex condoms.
Read more about the effectiveness of non-latex condoms.
Lifestyles SKYN
Image courtesy of Lifestyle Condoms
For people with latex allergies, SKYN condoms are an amazing breakthrough and, thankfully, a much more affordable option for protection from pregnancy and STDs including HIV. Not just for people with latex allergies, the feel of SKYN is noticeably different and they may be preferred by people without latex allergies as a regular use condom. SKYN is made from a synthetic material called polyisoprene which is stretchy and form fitting unlike polyurethane condoms. SKYN condoms are not as thin as polyurethane condoms, but in most cases they will fit better. Condoms cost between $12-$14 for a box of 12 condoms
Durex Avanti Male Non-Latex Condom
Image courtesy of Pricegrabber.
Avanti condoms are made by Durex, and were the first available in the United States. They are made of polyurethane (the same material the female condom is made from) and are thought to provide protection against both pregnancy and STDs. Avanti condoms are much thinner than standard latex condoms, and they are also made a bit larger (unlike latex, polyurethane doesn't stretch, so the larger size is in part to prevent breakage). Another stated benefit of polyurethane is that it transmits heat better than latex, thus enhancing sensitivity.
Cost ranges between $1.50 and 2.50 per condom.
Cost ranges between $1.50 and 2.50 per condom.
Trojan Supra Male Non-Latex Condom
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Trojan Supra condoms are also made of polyurethane and have all the benefits and drawbacks of the Avanti brand. When it first came out, it was only available with a spermicidal lubricant. This made little sense, as people with latex allergies may also have other allergies and chemical sensitivities, and many others react to spermicide. Trojan now makes the Supra without spermicide (shown here), though you should pay special attention when making your purchase to ensure you're buying the version you want.
Supras tend to be a little less expensive, costing between $1 and 1.75 per condom.
Supras tend to be a little less expensive, costing between $1 and 1.75 per condom.
Trojan Naturalamb Natural Skin Condoms
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People have been making condoms out of natural animal skins for centuries. Trojan's Naturalamb is one of the last remaining brands widely available. Some people who use them rave about their comfort, while others complain that there is a distinct farm-like smell to them. The most important thing to know about natural membrane condoms is that they do not provide protection from STDs -- they are only effective as a barrier for contraception.
Female Condom
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The female condom is also made of polyurethane, but is a different shape and is worn internally by the woman. It can be difficult the first few times you use one, but in addition to the internal protection against the transmission of bodily fluids it offers, the female condom is also thought to protect part of the external genitalia, as the ring "hangs out" of the body and provides a barrier.
