Have you ever been in your local pharmacy or drug store, seen flavored condoms on the shelves and wondered to yourself, “What are those and who is buying those?” Maybe you were browsing and you saw an exciting tropical flavor that made you hungry (or thirsty)!
Or, maybe you’ve never seen a flavored condom and are looking to learn more! We at ONE Condoms are here to give you a taste (couldn’t help ourselves) of the world of flavored condoms, including how they work, what they’re used for, why people buy them and where you can find them.
In the thousands of years that condoms (or other barrier method based birth control) have existed in one form or another, flavored condoms are a relative newcomer. In fact, flavored condoms weren’t introduced to the consumer market until 1995. Save that one for trivia night! We might be biased, but we think that they have to be a contender for the best invention of 1995.
Why Were Flavored Condoms Created?
Believe it or not, flavored condoms are more about function than flare actually. In adding a light flavored coating to the exterior of these latex condoms, the idea is that they would be not only more appealing but more enjoyable for oral sex specifically. That’s right, these condoms were specifically designed to eat...just not exactly in the way you might’ve thought!
Because they’re generally designed with latex, they offer all the same protection as regular condoms from sexual transmitted infections (STIs) that can be transmitted through oral sex. Many people are aware that condoms can prevent pregnancy (and are up to 98% effective when used correctly), but flavored condoms remain one of the lesser known types of condoms on the market. 
Are Flavored Condoms for You?
Health care professionals and sexual experts (sexperts, if you will) are in agreement: you should always consider your sexual health, look to mitigate any risk and seek out ways to engage in safer sexual practices whenever possible. Culturally, oral sex is a hotly debated topic, with enthusiastic opinions across the whole spectrum.
Wherever you fall on the spectrum and whatever your preferences, the science behind it is quite clear: oral sex can be a rewarding part of any sex life or sexual experience, but STIs can indeed be transmitted between/among partners. Because unprotected oral sex can expose partners to bodily fluids and direct skin to skin contact, there are still risks for STI transmission, including:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- HPV
- HIV
A recent study by the CDC found that of the 85% of sexually active adults who reported having had oral sex, only 2% of those surveyed used a condom. Other studies report similar rates of condom use. Unfortunately, infection rates are increasing at the same time – the CDC reports almost 20 million new STI infections every year. Yikes!
The good news is that there is a variety of safer sex options that offer great protection from STI transmission during oral sex, including flavored condoms. If you want to add a splash of flavor or spice things up for your next sexual experience, flavored condoms might be for you!
How to Use Flavored Condoms
So, you’re looking to try a flavored condom? Excellent. Because flavored condoms are so similar to standard latex condoms, the process for using them is very similar, though there are a few key differences to point out. Below is a quick list of tips and tricks for enjoying your flavored condom experience to the very fullest, while ensuring your safety.
1. Fresh Flavors Only
Make sure to check the expiration date on your flavored condom. If your condom has expired, it may be damaged and create increased risk for you and your partner(s). This is also a good time to double check that there isn’t any damage to the exterior packaging.
2. Rip, Roll and Reservoir Tip
While it may impress your partner(s) to open the condom with your teeth or the like, we recommend that you simply open it with your fingers to avoid any punctures and tears. From there you will want to place the condom on the tip of the penis (so it’s shaped like a beanie, not a shower cap), and roll it down the full length of the shaft.
As you roll, make sure to pinch the reservoir tip of the condom, to allow for a bit of extra room. (This is for a number of reasons: gives you a bit of room to maneuver and avoid discomfort, allows for the collection of fluids, and helps avoid tearing.)
Can you use flavored condoms for vaginal sex?
Flavored condoms are an excellent option for oral sex. Whether you can use flavored condoms for vaginal sex depends whether that specific brand uses sweeteners or sugar in their flavoring. Sugar can cause yeast infections in a vagina, so always check with the condom manufacturer. The great news is that our ONE FlavorWaves flavored condoms contain no sweeteners or sugars that would alter vagina pH levels, meaning they are completely safe and intended for intercourse, too.
Bonus: Finding Your Fit
Just like all condoms, goodness of fit is critical, not only for your enjoyment but also to guarantee the greatest level of protection for you and your partner(s). A well-fitting condom fits snugly from the tip of the penis to the base of the shaft, without any feelings of looseness, bagginess or tightness. More than 8 out of every 10 condom users in some studies have reported experiencing one or more of these issues, so if you do, you are far from alone.
Where To Buy Flavored Condoms
We’re so glad you asked! Whether you’re an expert in flavored condoms or looking to add a bit of something sweet or spicy to your sex life, you can browse ONE’s selection of premium flavored condoms here on the site. Make sure to report back about your experience, we love reviews!
Can’t Use Standard Flavored Condoms?
Unfortunately, the reality is that standard flavored condoms aren’t for everyone, and the reasons behind that may vary (from latex allergy to personal preference). In an effort to cater to this crowd, we’ve outlined some options below which can work as a suitable alternative to standard flavored condoms:
1. Dental Dams
Dental dams can be fashioned out of a variety of latex and non-latex materials, including standard condoms, gloves and even plastic wrap (but make sure it’s non-porous). You will want to carefully create a flat, square-ish shape, which you can then place on your partner and do your thing! Make sure you only use one side to ensure the greatest protection and to avoid direct contact with bodily fluid or skin-to-skin contact.
2. Flavored Lube
Another great option is to apply flavored lube to your existing safer sex practices! Have a preferred condom that doesn’t come in a flavored version? Great! All you need to do is get your hands on a water-based or silicone-based flavored lube, apply as much or as little as you like, and enjoy!
One note on flavored lube: The sugar in some flavored lube can irritate the vagina and can increase the risk of yeast infections. So check the ingredients of your favorite flavored lube!
Sources:
- Healthline - Why Are Condoms Flavored
- Women's Health - Best Flavored Condoms
- Men's Health - Best Condoms For Oral Sex
- Health Shots - Flavored Condoms For Intercourse
- CDC - Risk & Oral Sex