Why Are Condoms Flavored? Tips For Proper Condom Use

Maybe your like

HealthlineSubscribe

Sexual Health

Why Are Condoms Flavored?

Medically reviewed by Janet Brito, Ph.D., LCSW, CST-S — Written by Jandra Sutton — Updated on August 28, 2018

Why you should use protection
How to use it
Alternatives

Overview

You might think flavored condoms are a sales tactic, but there’s a great reason why they exist that’s also why you should consider using them.

Flavored condoms are actually designed to be used during oral sex. The flavored coating helps mask the taste of latex and makes oral sex more enjoyable.

More importantly, using condoms during oral sex is the only way to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This means that flavored condoms are a great way to enjoy oral sex and to stay safe.

After all, sex is a wonderful thing. It can even help you live longer. But it’s important to make sure that you’re engaging in safe sex. This means you should use protection every single time you engage in sexual activity, even during oral sex.

Why you should use protection for oral sex

Condoms don’t just prevent pregnancy. They also prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

And, regardless of what you might think, STIs are transmitted through all kinds of sexual activity, including vaginal penetration, anal sex, or oral sex without protection.

Many STIs can be spread through oral sex — including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV, and even HIV — which is why it’s so important to use protection. STIs can be spread even if your partner doesn’t have any symptoms.

Rates of infection are actually rising. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there are almost 20 million new cases of STIs reported every year.

While using protection during oral sex doesn’t eliminate your risk of contracting or spreading an STI, it does reduce the risk — which is still very important.

How to use a flavored condom

If you’re planning to purchase flavored condoms, the first step is to make sure you buy ones that fit properly.

If the condom is too big or too small, it could slip — or break. A comfortably fitting condom is the best way to make sure both you and your partner enjoy oral sex.

Many flavored condoms are also made of latex. This means if you have a latex allergy, you should make sure to check the package before purchasing.

It’s also important to remember that flavored condoms are designed primarily for use during oral sex.

You shouldn’t use them for vaginal or anal sex unless the directions on the package state otherwise, especially since any added sugars in the flavored coating could contribute to a vaginal yeast infection.

Always read the directions before using condoms to ensure you’re using them correctly.

Tips for using a flavored condom for oral sex

Make sure you know how to use a condom. Always use a condom that fits right.
Check the expiration date on the condom. You shouldn’t use a condom if the wrapper is damaged or torn. Always check the condom for any obvious problems like tiny holes or stiffness.
Always use a new condom every time you have sex. Even if you’re just switching from oral sex to another type of penetration before reaching completion, you need to reapply a new condom.
Only use condom-safe lubricants. Even natural lubricants like olive oil can cause latex condoms to break down and increases risk of pregnancy or contracting an STI.

Remember, you’re at a higher risk of contracting an STI each and every time you don’t use protection when you engage in sexual activity.

Alternatives to flavored condoms

However, there are other ways to stay safe during oral sex if you aren’t sure you want to use flavored condoms or if you have a latex allergy.

Dental dams are one alternative to help prevent the spread of STIs during oral sex. Or you can use regular condoms with a flavored condom-safe lubricant.

Water or silicone-based lubricants are best for use with condoms, and there are many water-based lubricants that are safe for use during oral sex.

Always be sure to read the directions before using any contraceptives or lubricants to make sure you’re using them correctly.

You’ll also want to keep in mind that while flavored lubricants can be used along with regular condoms, they shouldn’t be used in or near a vagina.

Just like with flavored condoms, any added sugars in flavored lubricants may increase your risk of a vaginal yeast infection.

Remember, STI prevention often starts before you engage in sexual activity. Get tested for STIs each and every time you’re considering sex with a new partner, and encourage your partner to do the same.

You should also get tested before having sex without protection or if you or your partner have had multiple partners.

Don’t be afraid to take charge of your sexual health. After all, the best sex starts with safe sex.

»MORE:Get a refill for your birth control medication in as little as 15 minutes with Optum Now Online Care.

Optum Now is operated by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. Learn more.

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Condom fact sheet in brief. (2013). https://www.cdc.gov/condomeffectiveness/brief.html
Reported STDs in the United States, 2016 [Factsheet]. (2017). https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/docs/factsheets/STD-Trends-508.pdf
STD risk and oral sex [Fact sheet]. (2017). https://www.cdc.gov/std/healthcomm/stdfact-stdriskandoralsex.htm

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Janet Brito, Ph.D., LCSW, CST-S — Written by Jandra Sutton — Updated on August 28, 2018

Why Are Condoms Flavored? Tips For Proper Condom Use

Health Conditions

Condition Spotlight

Wellness Topics

Product Reviews

Featured Programs

Featured

Lessons

Newsletters

Lifestyle Quizzes

Health News

This Just In

Top Reads

Video Series

Find Your Bezzy Community

Follow us on social media

Sexual Health

Why you should use protection for oral sex

How to use a flavored condom

Tips for using a flavored condom for oral sex

Alternatives to flavored condoms

How we reviewed this article:

Read this next

What You Need To Know About Flavored Condoms - WebMD

What EXACTLY Is The Purpose Of Flavoured Condom? We Tell You

Why Do People Buy Flavored Condoms? – ONE®

Everything You Need To Know About Flavoured Condoms - Durex

Are Flavoured Condoms To Safe To Use For Intercourse? Let's Find Out

10 Best Flavored Condoms For Even Tastier Safe Sex - Refinery29

17 Flavored Condoms (and Lubes!) That'll Up Your Oral Sex Game

Why Are Condoms Flavored? Top 20 Flavored Condoms In India

Are Flavored Condoms Safe To Use?

Treat Yo Self — Flavored Condom Edition - Greatist

Comprehensive Guide On Flavored Condoms - Royal

Are Flavoured Condoms Safe For Sex? - HANX

Types Of Flavoured Condoms In India - Shycart

Contact