Condoms help prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted diseases. There are many types of condoms you and your partner can try.
If you have an active sex life, condoms should be used as a protective barrier. Simply use it every time you have sex and it will help protect you from unnecessary pregnancy, just like sexually transmitted diseases. However, you don’t need to rely solely on latex condoms. The female condoms and flavoured ones must have intrigued you, but there are many options you can try. Many more types of condoms can be used during sexual activities. However, not all of them are effective, and some of them are intended to be used only during oral sex. Look at your options and choose the best option for you and your partner.
What is a condom?
They are a type of barrier contraception used to prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted diseases during sexually transmitted interactions. “They work by creating a physical barrier that stops sperm from entering the vagina and reaching the egg, reducing the risk of infections such as HIV, chlamydia and go disease,” explains gynecologist and IVF expert Dr. Shobha Gupta.

It also protects people from diseases including Zika and Ebola viruses that can become infected through gender, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Approximately 98% of women who use their sexual partners correctly during sex for about a year are protected from unplanned pregnancy, according to the World Health Organization.
What types of condoms are there?
The common types of condoms you can use during sex are:
1. Latex condoms
Made from natural rubber latex, these are one of the most common types of condoms. A 2004 study published in The Contraception Journal showed that latex condoms in men rarely broke or slipped off during their gender. Researchers also found that this condom provides a high birth control effect, especially when used regularly, and then the risk of leaking from semen is very low.
2. Polyurethane Condoms
Made from thin and strong plastic materials, these condoms are a good alternative for people with latex allergies. “Water-resistant and grease-resistant external condoms still provide effective protection against pregnancy and STIs,” experts say.
3. Polyisoprene condom
These are made from synthetic rubber and are another latex-free option. They do not have the allergy trigger protein found in latex condoms, but offer the same protection and comfort as the latter. If you want to make your sex life safer and give it an allergy to latex, look for polyisoprene condoms.
4. Female condom
Female condoms inserted into the vagina provide barrier protection from pregnancy and STIs and can be used by women who prefer not to rely on male condoms. A 2020 study published in BMC Public Health showed that female use along with male condoms is more effective than using male condoms alone in preventing STIs.
5. Condoms coated with sperm
These are latex or polyurethane condoms coated with sperm agents, usually served in the form of jelly. “It adds extra pregnancy prevention by killing sperm before reaching the egg, but it can lead to stimulation for some users,” experts say.
6. Flavored Condoms
When considering popular types of condoms, you need to visualize flavorful condoms. “These are often designed for oral sex, made with latex, and come in a variety of flavors to hide the taste of latex,” experts say. It makes oral sex even more enjoyable for couples.
7. Texture condoms (with ribs or studs)
“These types of condoms have added textures such as ribs and studs to enhance the sense of both partners,” experts say. It can enhance pleasure as it can stimulate the vaginal nerves more than untextured condoms.
8. Ultra Thin Condom
Made from thin latex, these condoms are designed to provide a more natural sensation within the gender. It almost feels like skin while having sex. “We still offer the same level of protection as standard types of condoms,” says Dr. Gupta.
9. Thick or ultra-strength condoms
These condoms are made of thick latex, providing extra durability, especially during anal sex, and reducing the risk of breakage. A 2022 study published in the Translational Andrology and Urology Journal showed that these types of condoms physically preserve, prolong the penis erection time, and overcome early ejaculation to improve its properties.
10. Dark condom
These types of condoms coated with a light emitting layer shine in the dark. “They also add a fun element to sexual activity, but they’re just as effective as standard types of condoms,” experts say. The glowing agent is actually surrounded by latex, making sex safer.
11. Non-lubricated condoms
These types of condoms do not have lubricants and are often used by people who prefer to use their own lubricants. Some people use coconut oil as a natural lubricant during sex. Non-lubricated condoms may also be used by people who are sensitive to the lubricants commonly used in condoms.

12. Lubricant Condoms
These types of condoms coated with lubricant to reduce friction help improve comfort during sex and prevent breakage. It is also easier to wear than non-lubricated condoms. It can also be used during anal sex.
13. Sensitive condoms
These are thin condoms designed to increase sensitivity and increase pleasure. “These types of condoms can maintain the same level of protection,” experts say. Because of their thin material, these condoms are less durable than regular types of condoms and have a higher risk of breakage.
14. Animal skin condoms
These types of condoms, made from lambskin, provide a natural sensation, but do not protect against STIs, making them unsuitable for those interested in infection prevention. “They are usually more expensive and aren’t reliable options for birth control,” experts say.
15. Special condoms for global warming and cooling
These types of condoms contain lubricants that create a sense of warming or cooling to enhance pleasure while having sex. “These condoms may contain lubricants that cause stimulation or allergic reactions in some individuals, especially in sensitive areas,” experts say.
There are many types of condoms, but in terms of effectiveness, the male worn on the penis provides protection during the gender.
Related FAQs
Which type of condom is best?
Latex condoms are considered the safest and most effective option to prevent pregnancy when used correctly. Not only do they provide reliable protection against pregnancy, they also reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) and make it a comprehensive protection method.
Will the condom expire?
Condoms usually have a shelf life of 1-5 years. Do not use condoms after their expiration date. This is listed on the package. This doesn’t work well and does not help prevent sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy.
Why do condoms break?
Condoms can be damaged during use if they do not fit properly. Using a lubricant with oil on a latex condom can affect its effectiveness. Additionally, if you do not use lubricants, you may damage the condoms as they increase friction during the gender.