Is it safe to ingest lubricants on non-latex condoms?

Dear Reader, 

It’s great that you’re keeping yourself and your partner(s) safe by finding ways to have safer sex. While there are many non-latex options out there, most come with lubricant (commonly called lube) already on them. In small amounts, water-based and silicone-based lubes aren’t harmful when they’ve been consumed. Oil-based lubricants, on the other hand, may cause some stomach upset. To cover all the bases, read on to learn more about ingesting lubricants, non-latex condom alternatives, and where to buy them.  

Is it safe to ingest lubricants? 

Generally, there are minimal side effects to consuming small amounts of water-based or silicone-based lubes. They may cause a mild stomachache for some people. However, if oil-based lubes are ingested, especially in large amounts, they may cause greater digestive disruptions. This includes nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.  

It’s worth noting that flavored condoms may have additional ingredients, such as sweeteners or flavoring agents. These may trigger allergic reactions, so consider checking the packaging label for the list of ingredients before use.  

What are some non-latex external condoms you can use? 

There are many non-latex external condom options that come pre-lubricated, including polyisoprene, polyurethane, and lambskin condoms. The type of lube that’s compatible with the condom varies by material.  

• Polyisoprene condoms: These condoms are made of synthetic rubber, which makes them softer with more stretch than latex. They’re compatible with water- and silicone-based lubes. Oil-based lubes, on the other hand, can damage the material.  
• Polyurethane condoms: These condoms are made of thin plastic and offer the same protection as polyisoprene condoms. They’re the thinnest choice among other non-latex condoms and can safely be used with all lube types, including oil-based lubes. 
• Lambskin condoms: These condoms are made from lamb intestines. They can be used with any type of lube. Keep in mind that while it can prevent pregnancy, lambskin has pores that may allow small particles, such as viruses or bacteria, to pass through the condom. This makes these condoms unable to prevent the transmissions of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).  

Are there other potential alternatives to non-latex condoms? 

There are more non-latex options beyond external condoms that can be used for oral sex. Other non-latex alternatives include: 

• Internal condoms: These consist of a flexible nitrile pouch and a polyurethane ring. They’re compatible with all types of lubes and can be inserted into either the vagina or the anus. When used correctly, they provide STI protection comparable to external condoms.  
• Dental dams: These are thin, stretchy sheets made of either latex or polyurethane. They act as a barrier to block bodily fluids during oral sex, which helps reduce the risk of transmitting STIs. They work best with water- or silicone-based lubes. Keep in mind that when you use dental dams, you or your partner will need to hold it flat against the area the entire time you’re performing oral sex so that you can get the best protection possible.  

For times when you don't have a condom or dental dam, plastic wrap may also work as a quick option for oral sex. That said, no research has proven its effectiveness in preventing STI transmission. But if you do use it, check to make sure the plastic wrap doesn’t have any tears or holes.  

Where can you find non-latex alternatives? 

More often than not, you can find non-latex condoms in many of the same places you’d find latex ones: online, grocery stores, pharmacies, or drugstores. That said, internal condoms and dental dams may be more difficult to find depending on your location. Sometimes, they may be kept behind the counter, so consider asking a store associate to check if they have any available.  

Often condoms can also be found at health clinics, Planned Parenthood centers, and LGBTQ+ community organizations. They may provide them for free or at a reduced cost. If you can’t find them locally, online stores and sex shops are also great places to buy non-latex condoms or dental dams. 

Hope this helped smooth out the details,