What are difference between lubricants and spermicides?

The lubrication on condoms varies. Some condoms are non lubricated at all, some are lubricated with a silicone oil, and some condoms are with water-based lubricant. The lubricant on condoms aims to make the condom easier to put on and more comfortable to use, it can also help prevent condom breakage. Lube is also available separately.

Some condoms and lubricants contain spermicide. Spermicides are chemical stuff which inactivate or kill sperm to prevent pregnancy. Condoms containing the spermicide nonoxynol-9 were previously thought to help prevent the transmission of HIV and other STIs. However, nonoxynol-9 sometimes causes adverse effects, which can facilitate the transmission of HIV. So you should only use condoms and lubricants containing nonoxynol-9 if you are HIV negative and know your partner is too. Using a condom (even if it contains nonoxynol-9) is much safer than having unprotected sex. Email: linda@oemcondoms.com