No matter what we learned about safe sex growing up, the reality is that condom use (while necessary to prevent STIs and unwanted pregnancy) can be a serious mood-killer. Ill-fitting latex, vaginal discomfort from disrupted pH balance, and the clumsy fumbling to even get the condom on in the first place are just some of the reasons condoms have gotten their un-sexy reputation.
Thankfully, we found 5 sexual health brands who are working to boost the mood around condom-use, with products that enhance the intimate experience.
Sustain
Female-founded brand Sustain carries a wide array of products centering (and elevating) menstrual and sexual wellness. Their “vagina-friendly” condoms are made with Fair Trade latex, are nitrosamine free, lubricated both inside and out, and triple-tested for effective safety. Sustain condoms come in 3 different size options, and they even offer a tailored fit option that is smaller at the base of the condom to provide extra security that it will stay in place during use. Sustain, who sells their products through Grove Collaborative, also makes a water-based lubricant that is unscented and compatible with a healthy internal genital pH of 4.0.
Sustain Tailored Fit Latex Condoms 10-pack – $13.95
LELO
LELO‘s trademark HEX style of condom has a “revolutionary” hexagonal structural design to increase strength and is textured on the inside to increase grip and prevent slipping. We love that they sell their condoms in bulk – one box (which costs less than $30) comes with 36 condoms. In addition to condoms, LELO also carries a line of sex toys and vibrators to support both solo and partnered intimacy.
LELO HEX Condoms 36-pack – $26.17
Maude
In addition to being made from 100% natural latex and free from spermicide, harmful chemicals, or fragrances, Maude‘s FDA-approved condoms are great because their easy-to-open packaging helps to eliminate the awkwardness of opening a condom wrapper and struggling to determine which way is open. And to help set the mood even before it’s time to reach for the condom, Maude’s line of intimacy essentials includes naturally hydrating lubricant, massage candles, bubble bath, and more.
Maude Rise Condoms 10-pack – $12
LOLA
LOLA‘s ultra-thin, lubricated condoms are “gynecologist-approved” and tested by women to prevent vaginal discomfort or irritation. While LOLA only carries one type/size of condom, they have a number of lubricant options (including a fertility-friendly lube for when you are trying to get pregnant) and vaginal health products to maintain intimate care whether or not you’re sexually active.
LOLA Ultra Thin Latex Condoms 12-pack – $11
Cake
Cake offers a wide range of hormone-free condoms so you can find the perfect fit for you or your partner. Their condoms come in Snug, Thin, or Large sizes, and they also carry two varieties of ribbed condoms in their medium size. We love that Cake is making an effort to be inclusive, removing unnecessarily gendered languaging from their product descriptions and even offering an “F Gender” landing page on their site to shop their favorite products “regardless of how you identify.”
Cake Condoms 12-pack – $8