Condoms

Condoms are barrier contraceptives that cover the penis during sex to prevent pregnancy and reduce sexually transmitted infection transmission. A condom creates a physical barrier between the penis and vagina, anus, or mouth. Most condoms are made from latex, polyisoprene, or polyurethane, stretching to fit over the erect penis. They work by catching ejaculate so sperm cannot enter the vagina. Condoms are the only contraceptive that provide dual protection against both pregnancy and STIs.

Why Choose Condoms

1. Dual Protection Against Pregnancy and STIs: Condoms prevent sperm from entering the vagina and block transmission of sexually transmitted infections through bodily fluids. No other single contraceptive offers protection against both simultaneously.
2. Immediate Effectiveness: Condoms work from the first use with no preparation, hormones, or medical fitting required. Put one on before penetration and protection begins immediately.
3. No Systemic Side Effects: Unlike hormonal contraceptives, condoms don't enter the bloodstream or affect hormones. They produce no nausea, mood changes, or weight fluctuations for either partner.

Types of Condoms

Standard Latex Condoms

Latex condoms are the most common type, made from natural rubber. They stretch easily to fit most penis sizes and provide reliable protection against pregnancy and STIs. Latex is affordable and widely available. They require water-based or silicone-based lubricant—never oil-based products, which degrade latex. Some people have latex allergies and need alternatives. Browse condom options.

Non-Latex Condoms (Polyisoprene and Polyurethane)

Non-latex condoms work for people with latex allergies or sensitivities. Polyisoprene closely mimics latex feel and elasticity. Polyurethane is thinner than latex, conducts heat better, and works with any lubricant type including oil-based products. Non-latex condoms cost slightly more than latex but provide the same pregnancy and STI protection.

Ultra-Thin Condoms

Ultra-thin condoms reduce the barrier between partners while maintaining protection. Thinner material increases sensitivity and heat transmission for both the wearer and receiving partner. They cost more than standard condoms but are popular with people who find regular condoms reduce sensation. Material strength remains equivalent to standard condoms.

Textured and Ribbed Condoms

Textured condoms feature ribs, dots, or ridges on the outside to increase friction and stimulation for the receiving partner. The texture is subtle and designed to enhance sensation during penetration. These are popular for vaginal and anal sex. Texture provides no contraceptive advantage but many people report increased pleasure.

Extended Pleasure Condoms

Extended pleasure condoms contain benzocaine or similar numbing agents on the inside to reduce penis sensitivity and delay ejaculation. They're useful for people who ejaculate quickly or want longer duration during sex. The numbing agent affects only the wearer's penis, not the receiving partner. Effectiveness varies between individuals.

Condoms Selection Guide

Who Buys Condoms

People practising safer sex without hormonal contraception: Condoms are the only method that prevents both pregnancy and STIs. People avoiding hormonal side effects, those with medical conditions precluding hormonal birth control, and anyone wanting maximum protection choose condoms as their primary contraceptive.

People with multiple sexual partners or new partners: Condoms are essential when STI status is unknown. During new relationships or casual sex, condoms provide immediate protection against infection transmission without requiring partners to share sexual health information or get tested together first.

Choosing Condoms

• Material Compatibility: Check for latex allergies. If you have sensitivity to latex, choose polyisoprene or polyurethane condoms instead. Test a single condom from a new material type to confirm no reaction before buying in bulk.
• Correct Sizing: Condoms come in small, standard, and large sizes. An ill-fitting condom reduces effectiveness and breaks more easily. Standard fits most people, but test if you're at the smaller or larger end of anatomy.
• Lubrication Type: Latex and polyisoprene condoms require water-based or silicone-based lubricant. Polyurethane condoms work with any lubricant including oil-based products. Check the condom material before choosing lube.
• Expiration Dates: Condoms degrade over time and lose elasticity. Check expiration dates on the box and individual packets. Store condoms in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight, heat, and sharp objects.
• Application Technique: Condoms only work if applied correctly. Pinch the tip to leave space for ejaculate, then roll down the shaft before penetration. Incomplete application or application after penetration has started reduces effectiveness.

Looking After Your Condoms

Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from heat, sunlight, and moisture. Never store them in wallets, gloveboxes, or anywhere subject to temperature extremes, which degrade the material. Check expiration dates before use—expired condoms lose elasticity and break more easily. Never reuse condoms. Once you've ejaculated, remove the condom, tie off the end if disposing carefully, and discard. Use a fresh condom for each act of penetration, even during the same sexual session. Water-based or silicone-based lubricant reduces friction and breakage—apply extra lube to the outside of the condom if needed during sex.

Goes Well With

Lubricants

Condoms work best with additional lubricant to reduce friction and breakage. Water-based lubricants work with all condom types. Silicone-based lubricants last longer and work with latex and polyisoprene condoms. Explore compatible lubricants to enhance comfort during sex.

Read Up

New to condoms or want to improve effectiveness? Our guide covers correct application technique, sizing, material selection for allergies, and troubleshooting common issues like breakage and slipping. Read the complete condom guide.

Shop Condoms

Our condom range includes latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane options in standard, large, and small sizes. Textured varieties, extended pleasure formulas, and ultra-thin designs are in stock. Bulk boxes reduce per-unit cost for regular users. Discreet delivery Australia-wide, unmarked packaging.