When I use latex condoms I experience redness and irritation on areas of the glans and sometimes the meatus. I may be sensitive to either the latex or the lubricant on the condom or both.
I have been treating it with cortizone and antibiotic cream. The redness and irritation clears up in a couple of days and I'm good to go.
Any advice?
Do providers also carry plastic condoms? Are the plastics reliable?
The saga of my penis continues!
You're probably developing a latex allergy. As a fellow sufferer, I can relate! Be careful - latex allergies can escalate with repeated exposure.
For myself, my allergies are primarily triggered orally - ie; using latex condoms for oral sex.
I always use non latex condoms, but they are signifigantly more pricey than regular latex condoms are. Since a large percentage of ladies are unlikely to keep them 'in stock', it might be advisable for you to bring your own. Also, since many of us are leary of non packaged condoms (there are some sick individuals out there who have been known to put pin prick holes into condoms, for whatever reasons), you might want to bring them along in the sealed store packaging.
Here's a link to a site which sells non latex condoms -
http://www.safesense.com/condoms-non-latex.shtml
Personally, I like the Avantis. Oh, and don't purchase the kind with spermicide - many women have severe reactions to it, it's extremely unpleasant for oral, and some studies have suggested it might actually increase the risk of HIV transmission.
Have fun,
Morgan
Trogan Supras or Durex Avanti- Now they don't have the stretch of latex and you do have to be more cautious of them slipping- so if you are a larger gent in that area or if you don't want to worry about the slipping ask the lady if she would be willing to use the female version polyurethane condom called the Reality Female condoms- More effective against STDs pregnancy etc. I personally love them- You don't really notice that you are wearing one- LOL feels great.
Now I agree with Morgan- you must bring your own or ask in advance(this is not appropriate if you haven't seen a lady) so best bet is bring your own. You can find them at Walgreens, CVS, and Osco usually.
I too have the allergy although mildly. Thank Goodness- I hate getting sore throats from oral and it definitely doesn't feel so good down south either. I can and do switch up the use, but I was told by my OBGYN that latex allergies can become severe and even fatal so if you have it be careful!