Many people experience various degrees of irritation when using condoms. The most
common causes (and solutions) are the following:
1) Insufficient lubrication. Condoms must be properly lubricated when used
for any form of intercourse. Without lubrication, the condom will irritate one or
both partners and may even break. Always use extra lubrication, even if the condom
is prelubricated.
2) Nonoxynol-9 sensitivity. Some men and women report negative reactions to the
chemical contained in spermicidally lubricated condoms. The best solution is to
try a condom that does not contain Nonoxynol-9. The research does not show that
the extra spermicide makes the condom any more effective.
3) Fragrance sensitivity. Believe it or not, most people who report rashes or
itching when using condoms are not sensitive to the condom itself, but rather
to one of the other things in the package, such as the fragrance. Try another
brand of condom and your problem might go away.
4) Latex allergy. This is the most serious problem and the hardest to avoid,
but also the least common. About the best solution is to try a non-latex variety,
but remember that condoms made out of lambskin will not protect against HIV.
Unless you have a true latex allergy, almost all irritations can be avoided with
a little experimentation with brands and how you use them. Good luck to you.
