Condom Allergies

Dear Uncomfortable,

A few things...are you using a lubricant that contains, or condoms lubricated with, a spermicide called Nonoxynol-9 (N-9)? If you do not know, you should definitely find out. N-9 is a harsh chemical spermicide that is the source of many allergic reactions that occur when using condoms. You can ask you health care provider if you might be allergic to N-9; if you, all you need to do is use condoms and lubricants that do not contain that chemical. In general, we do not recommend using Nonoxynol-9 at all.

If that does not solve your problem, then you may actually be allergic to latex, the material from which most condoms are made. In that case, I would recommend trying the Durex Avanti or the FC Female Condom, which are both made of polyurethane. Polyurethane, as opposed to latex, is not a natural product; it is hypo-allergenic, heat conductive (it will warm to your body temperature), and can be used safely with oil-based substances. Lambskin condoms, like Trojan's Naturalamb, might also be an option; but understand that lambskin condoms DO NOT protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's). They can only be used to prevent pregnancy.

If you have not done so already, be sure to contact your health care provider and let him/her know about the allergic reactions you have experienced.

Juliet In Pajamas