If you have been sexually active for some time, you’re probably already familiar with their existence. But have you ever wondered why flavoured condoms exist in the first place? Are they safe? Do they offer the same protection as regular condoms? Are there any dos and don’ts that you need to keep in mind while using them? We’re here to answer all of those questions for you, so that you can continue pushing the limits of pleasure without compromising on safety and health.
What are flavoured condoms?
Flavoured condoms are just another variant of a regular latex condom, enhanced by adding flavouring to the lubricant that it’s coated with. Just like dotted, ribbed or textured variants, the intent behind flavoured condoms is to make sex more fun and pleasurable without compromising on safety.
Originally, this variety of condoms was targeted specifically for making oral sex safer and more pleasurable for both partners. News flash: while oral sex doesn’t result in unwanted pregnancies, it can still expose you to the risk of STIs. That’s why you must always practice safe oral sex by using a barrier method such as condoms or dental dams.
Besides, while oral sex is an integral part of a fulfilling experience for so many couples, not many can claim to be fans of the way their partner’s penis tastes and smells. A flavoured condom with its mild aroma presents the perfect solution to this smell/taste problem.
While flavoured condoms may have entered the market with the promise of making oral sex safer and more pleasurable, that’s not all there is to them. They have also emerged as a great alternative for protection during penetrative sex. However, not all flavoured condoms are safe to be used for penile-vaginal intercourse (more on that later).
Types and cost of flavoured condoms
Flavoured condoms are readily available at pharmacies, supermarkets and drugstores. While there may be a marginal difference in prices depending on the brand you use, flavoured condoms don’t typically cost more than their regular or textured counterparts. However, you may not find them in the selection of free condoms available at doctor’s offices, local healthcare centres and family planning clinics.
If you and your partner have been considered trying out flavoured condoms, here are a few options you can choose from:
- Strawberry
- Chocolate
- Pineapple
- Orange
- Vanilla
- Grape
- Mint
- Banana
- Cherry
- Aloe
- Apple
- Butterscotch
- Cola
- Jasmine
- Pina Colada
- Kala-khatta
- Paan
- Bubble-gum
Risks and precautions to keep in mind
Apart from the usual risks associated with any type of condom – breaking, slipping, tearing, leading to a risk of unplanned pregnancy and STIs, and latex allergies – flavoured condoms may not always be the safest choice for penetrative sex.
The flavour in these condoms usually comes from adding glycerin (glycerol) to the lube. In addition to that, glucose or sugar-based lube may be used to add a sweet taste to these condoms.
When used for vaginal insertion, the glycerol/glucose content of these condoms can affect the pH levels of the vagina, putting you at the risk of yeast infections, and in extreme cases, thrush. Before using a flavoured condom for penetrative sex, make sure to read the label and pay attention to any special instructions/precautions specified there.
Exploring new ways to increase your pleasure quotient is always a great idea, but one that must be pursued with caution. Discuss your desires and fantasies with your partner and always, always be considerate of their stance when deciding whether or not to try new kinks and ways to spice up your sex life.
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Arushi Chaudhary is a freelance journalist and writer with 5 years of experience in print publications such as the Pune Mirror and Hindustan Times, and has spent close to a decade writing for digital platforms and print publications – The Tribune, BR International magazine, Make My Trip, Killer Features, The Money Times, and Home Review, to name a few. Of the many things she's written about over the years, exploring the space of love and relationships through the prism of psychology excites her the most. Writing is her first and forever love. You can find her on Twitter here.