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Safer Sex Supply Guide

Use this guide to figure out what types of supplies you want!

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Note on language:

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In this guide, we use the term "external" instead of "male" condom and "internal" instead of "female" condom, and we name the body parts used with certain supplies instead of genders.

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However, the packaging of the supplies may contain different language.

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External Condoms

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Click here to watch a video about how to use an external condom.

There are all different types of external condoms. They come in different sizes, colors, and textures. Some differences are more practical (the better the fit, the more protective), while others are more for aesthetic or pleasure purposes.

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While most standard condoms fit most, exploring alternate sizes can help some find a more comfortable fit.

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External Classic Fit Latex Condom

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  • Latex condom to be worn on a penis or over a sex toy
  • Lubricated or unlubricated
  • Brands: ONE, LifeStyles, Trojan, and more!

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External Black Latex Condom

  • Same as external classic fit latex condom, but in black
  • Brands include: Lifestyles, ONE, and more!

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External Colored Latex Condom

  • Same as classic fit external condom, but assortment of various colors
  • Brands include: LifeStyles, Trustex, ONE, and more!

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External Glow-in-the-Dark Latex Condom

  • Same as classic fit external condom, but green and glows in the dark
  • Brands include: ONE, Night Light, and more!

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External Textured Latex Condom

  • Same as classic fit external condom, but textured to increase pleasure
  • Brands include: Rough Rider, ONE, LifeStyles, and more!

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External Sensitive/Ultra Thin Latex Condoms

  • Same as classic fit external condom, but extra thin and more lubricated
  • Brands include: LifeStyles, Trojan, and more!

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External Larger Fit Latex Condom

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  • Standard external condoms stretch quite a bit. However, if you’ve tried a standard external condom and it is too tight (loss of sensation or discomfort) or too short (doesn’t roll down to the base and might slip off), then try a larger fit condom.
  • Brands include: Trojan Magnum, ONE, and more!

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External Snug Fit Latex Condom

  • Standard external condoms stretch quite a bit. However, if you’ve tried a standard external condom and it is too loose, then try a snug fit.
  • Brands include: LifeStyles Snugger Fit, NuVo Snug, Atlas True Fit

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External Non-Latex Condom

  • External standard condom for those with latex allergies
  • Made with polyisoprene (don’t use with oil-based lube), polyurethane (safe with oil-based lube), or lambskin (safe with all lube; doesn’t protect against STIs)
  • Brands include: LifeStyles

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Insertive Condoms

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Click here to watch a video about how to use an insertive condom.

Some people who insert condoms feel more in control of their sexual health. Other things some people like about insertive condoms is they are latex-free (and transmit heat better than latex), they cover more surface area to decrease risk of STIs transmitted during skin-to-skin contact, and might provide more stimulation to the clitoris and the penis.

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Insertive Non-Latex Condom

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  • Lubricated condom that is inserted inside of the vagina any time up to 4 hours prior to vaginal sex (remove inner ring to use for anal sex)
  • Non-latex
  • There is one FDA-approved brand of internal condoms on the market: FC2

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Oral Sex

There are two types of barrier methods designed specifically to prevent the transmission of STIs during oral sex (yes, you can get an STI from oral sex).

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External Flavored Latex Condom

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  • Use for oral sex on a penis or sex toy
  • Not intended for vaginal or anal sex because the flavor typically comes from sugar, which can irritate the vagina or anus
  • Brands include: LifeStyles, ONE, Trustex, and more!

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External Classic Fit Unlubricated Latex Condom

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  • Can be used for oral sex on a penis or sex toy as well as for intercourse
  • Pair with flavored lube for oral sex if desired
  • Brands include: LifeStyles, Trustex, and more!

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Flavored Oral Dam

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  • Sheet of latex or polyurethane
  • Can be used anywhere on the body that you want to stimulate orally except the penis
  • Be sure to place the non-flavored side against the person’s body and do not flip it around after contact has been made

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Other Supplies

Learn about gloves and lube!

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Gloves

  • Can be latex or non-latex
  • Worn on the hand to reduce STI transmission from touching genitals and/or body fluids
  • Also protects against other germs and dirt, including bacterial infections
  • May increase pleasure and decrease pain when used with lube
  • Pro tip for long nails: stuff the tips of the glove with cotton balls or tissue before putting it on

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Lubricant

  • Increases pleasure and decreases STI risk
  • Water-based: safe with toys, all barrier methods, and bodies
    • Shortest lasting; least messy
  • Silicone-based: safe with some toys, all barrier methods, and bodies
    • Not safe with silicone toys
    • Longest lasting; medium messiness
  • Oil-based: safe with toys, polyurethane/lambskin barrier methods, and bodies
    • Medium-lasting; messiest

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Conclusion

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Finding the right safer sex supplies for you can be difficult. It often takes time to see which ones are the most enjoyable. For more information and tips on how to use barriers while increasing pleasure:

  • Watch Sexual Health 101
  • Schedule a free Sexual Health Consultation at MyUHC.umd.edu