Latex Allergies: Allergic to Condoms?

Are either you or your partner allergic to latex condoms? Sometimes people say that they’re allergic to condoms just because they don’t want to use condoms at all. But sometimes people really are allergic to latex, the material that most male condoms are made from.

When used properly and consistently, latex condoms greatly reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs or STDs). Having a latex allergy may rule out using latex condoms, but people with latex allergies still have ways to protect themselves.

Rule out spermicidal reactions: First, check that the allergic reaction is due to latex and not due to any spermicides that may have been used. Spermicides can cause irritations that people mistake for a latex sensitivity. You could try using lubricated latex condoms without spermicide to help determine whether the allergic reaction is due to the spermicide or to the latex rubber. If you discover that it is the spermicide that causes the irritation, avoid using a spermicide. If it is a latex sensitivity, see below. (Note: If you have a severe latex allergy, AVOID LATEX PRODUCTS COMPLETELY).

There are many latex-free birth control choices, including pills, Depo Provera (the needle), female condoms and sponges. You can also use lambskin or natural condoms for birth control, although these kinds of condoms DO NOT PROTECT AGAINST STIs. Talk to your doctor about all your birth control choices. (Note: Avoid devices like diaphragms and cervical caps, which are also made from latex).

There may be times when you need a back-up method of protection (for example, if you miss a birth control pill). Have a latex-free back-up plan in place (e.g. a polyurethane condom).

Remember that birth control generally prevents unplanned pregnancies, not STIs, so you will still need to think about ways of preventing infections.

If you are sexually active, it’s a good idea to get tested regularly for STIs. Many people who have an infection do not have any symptoms, so they are unaware that they have something. Left untreated, STIs can do a lot of damage to our health. Preventing an infection is important. People with latex allergies have many protective options:

• Double up condoms: Use lambskin and latex condoms together, keeping the latex condom away from the partner with the latex allergy (this is not an option if both partners have latex sensitivities). Some people like the extra protection against STIs provided with this option, while others may complain about lack of sensation (Tip: put extra lubrication inside the tip of the first condom before rolling it on to increase the feeling). Natural or lambskin condoms can be difficult to find in drugstores, but pharmacists can order them for you. Lambskin condoms alone do not offer STI protection.
• Reality Female Condoms: These condoms are made of polyurethane. They are available at most drugstores and can be ordered if they are not in stock. They are more expensive than male condoms. Female condoms provide effective protection from STIs and unplanned pregnancies. They can be used with any kind of lubricant and conduct body heat well to enhance sensation. Some men like the loose fit of the female condom on their penis. Some people remove the inner ring to use female condoms for anal sex.
• Polyurethane Male Condoms: These are available at some specialty stores. Polyurethane is thinner than latex, providing increased sensation and it can be used with any kind of lubricant. Male polyurethane condoms may be more likely to break during sex and break or slip off during removal than latex condoms.
• Vaginal Spermicides: Advantage 24, Vaginal Contraceptive Film and other spermicides can be used for vaginal intercourse, offering some protection against unplanned pregnancy and possibly some STIs. These spermicides can be used along with birth control methods such as pills and Depo Provera (the needle). You can increase your protection with this option by getting tested regularly for STIs, asking your partner(s) to be tested and talking to your partner about practising mutual monogamy (that is, you agree that you will have sex only with each other and no one else). Don’t just assume that you’re in a monogamous relationship, talk about it!. Note: If you or your partner develop an irritation from a spermicide, stop using it. These irritations may increase your risk of getting an infection like HIV. Spermicides should never be used for anal sex.
• Mutual Monogamy with an Uninfected Partner: Mutual monogamy means that you and your partner agree that you will have sex only with each other and no one else. This requires A LOT of honesty between partners. What if you wanted to have sex with someone else? Would you tell your partner? What if your partner told you that they had sex with someone else? Would you end the relationship? Can partners really feel safe to be honest with each other if they’re worried that they might lose their relationship? These are all things to talk about and consider. Sometimes people decide that it’s easier and safer to think about other ways of protecting themselves from STIs instead of just relying on mutual monogamy alone.

• Non-latex dental dams: Dental dams can be used for oral sex. They are a thin barrier between someone’s mouth and someone else’s genitals. Non-latex dams are available from dental supply companies; however, it is not clear whether these non-latex dams are safer from infections. The exception is polyurethane condoms. They can be split open and used as a dam (rinse off the lubricant before using).
• Explore safer sex: Having sex is more than just intercourse. There is a lot of choice involved in having sex, including things like touching, massage and masturbation. Use your imagination, think about your desires and boundaries and talk to your partner about safer sex. Find other safer ways of giving and receiving pleasure that don’t require the use of a latex barrier. As a general rule for safer sex, avoid exchanging body fluids (semen/cum, pre-cum, vaginal fluids and blood) and touching sores.