People have been having sex since the dawn of time. Even though its primary biological function was to produce more humans, sex is so much fun that people found themselves wanting to do it even when having children wasn’t the goal, and an unwanted pregnancy could present a real problem! As a result, a variety of contraceptive measures came about, some more effective than others, but one of the first has stayed with us all these centuries as one of the best- the condom.
The first condoms known from ancient times were made of animal bladders. In modern times those have been replaced mostly by condoms made of latex (hence their nickname,”rubbers”) but some people are allergic to that substance so you can also find latex free condoms that can be used as an alternative.
Let’s take a look at both types and see what the differences are!
The Latex Condom – The most common type of condom is made from latex, a natural rubber derived from the sap of the Hevea brasiliensis, or rubber tree. The condom is a fairly simple rubber sheath that is pulled over the penis to cover it during intercourse so ejaculated sperm can’t exit into the woman’s vagina and cause impregnation. It is also highly effective in preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections, or STIs like gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
Because of their easy application and the widespread availability of the rubber used to produce them, around 90% of all condoms on the market are made of latex. Condoms are easy to buy as they are available just about anywhere, and they come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes as well as thickness, colours, and even flavours! Latex condoms when used properly are a great way for both partners to enjoy fun and safe sex.
The rub is that some people are extremely sensitive to the main ingredient of most condoms, natural rubber latex. Latex allergies affect around 5% of the general population and 10% of healthcare workers. This is the main reason why non-latex condoms have come into more common use.
The Non-Latex Condom – Non-latex condoms are mostly made from polyurethane, which is a kind of plastic, or polyisoprene, a hypoallergenic ingredient found in natural rubber, or from lambskin. People who suffer from latex allergies can use these types of condoms with any kind of lubricant. Unfortunately, non-latex condoms have some major disadvantages when it comes to both STI resistance and contraceptive protection than those made from latex.
Polyurethane condoms have no proteins which can cause allergic reactions, but they can also break and slip more easily and stretch far less than latex can, making them a riskier proposition.
Polyisoprene condoms are composed of synthetic latex from which the allergy-inducing proteins have been removed. They can stretch almost as much as latex condoms and are more effective than polyurethane when it comes to protecting against unwanted pregnancies.
Lambskin condoms are actually the oldest type, they have been in use for centuries. They are made from the lamb’s intestinal membrane. They feel more natural during intercourse, but aren’t effective against STIs, plus they smell funny.
Whatever condom you use, be safe and have fun!
