How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy Condoms? Where To Buy Them?

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how old do you have to be to buy condoms

You may fear being judged discussing sexual health topics openly. A lot of myths surround the usage of condoms. One of the common questions that come to your mind is, “How old do you have to be to buy condoms?”. Well, look no further, as we have covered all (or almost all) of your condom concerns.

What Are Condoms?

Condoms are one of the contraceptive methods used to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Contraception is an important subject when sexual health is concerned.
 
Condoms are a barrier method of contraception. They prevent the seminal fluid or semen (the fluid with sperms) from entering your partner’s reproductive tract. There are different contraceptive devices that you can use as per your ease and need.
 
They also prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), though not 100%.
 
Condoms are thin, elastic, fitted rubber tubes worn over the penis or inside the vagina. They come in different sizes and materials and can be lubricated or not.

Is There An Age Limit To Buy Condoms?

So by now, you know that condoms enable you to have protected sex. But do you have to be 18 to buy condoms?. The answer to this question is straightforward. There is no legal age limit to purchase condoms. Yup, you heard that right!
 
That means you can buy condoms at any age. Yet, you may get a startled or judgmental look from the shopkeeper or pharmacist if you’re a bit younger.
 
They may even ask you to show your ID. If you come across such a situation, you can simply refuse and not buy condoms. There are plenty of other places to buy them.

Also Read: How To Keep Your Child Safe From Sexual Abuse?

Where Can You Get Condoms From?

Condoms are available at utility stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores at the side of a gas station or petrol pump.
 
They are even available as an OTC (over the counter) at drugstores and pharmacies. You don’t need a prescription from your doctor to buy them.
 
If you also need some advice, you can ask your doctor, health care advisor, or Planned parenthood center staff for more information. They will often provide you with a condom free of charge.
 
But if you feel embarrassed or hesitant about getting condoms from the above places, you may buy them online
 
One important thing to note is that safe sex should be your first priority. And for that purpose, keeping a condom is nothing less important than sex itself.

Also Read: How To Talk To Your Kids About The Good and Bad Touch?

Price Tags And Price Ranges?

Individual condoms cost, on average, anywhere from around $0.50 to $2. Prices vary depending on the brand, material, texture, and presence of flavor or lubricant.
 
Still, you can get free condoms from college or community health centers or your doctor.

Also Read: Clear Blue Pregnancy Test – What Is It and How To Perform?

Gender-Specific Condoms?

There are different condoms for males and females!
  • Male Condoms
Male condoms are usually made of latex. They are like deflated tubes in shape. There is a ring on one side and a tip, usually with a small reservoir on the other end. The reservoir is to store semen during intercourse.
  • Female Condoms
Female condoms are inserted into the vagina. They have one closed end placed inside the vagina and an outer ring.

Also Read: What Is Medical Abortion? What Are Its Types? What Precautions Are Necessary?

Different Types Of Condoms

As we mentioned earlier, condoms come in various types, depending on usage and personal needs.

  • Synthetic Or Natural?

Condoms are made of different materials. Latex condoms dominate the market. But, if you have an allergy to latex, you can use plastic condoms. Both of these varieties protect from sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy too.
 
Natural or lambskin condoms are made of lamb’s intestine. They offer protection against unwanted pregnancy but not against sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Lubricated Condoms

Condoms often come lubricated. Lubricant is a thin layer of oil- or water-based fluid. It prevents pain and irritation during sex and can make the act more pleasurable.

  • Textured Condoms

Textured condom varieties include studded or ribbed condoms. They may heighten sexual pleasure for you and your partner. But they do not offer extra protection.

Also Read: What Are The Chances Of Getting Pregnant Before Period?

Things To Know When Buying Condoms

When purchasing condoms, you may want to consider the condom size.
 
Although the standard size does justice to most people, it may not be the best fit for you. A too tight or too loose condom won’t make your sexual experience any better. So yes, sizes do matter!
 
The same comes about the material. Latex allergy is a well-known problem! You may want to do a test run with one condom to see if you have one before having sex. Also, be respectful with your partner and check if they have an allergy.
 
Another critical thing to check is the expiration date. Expired condoms can easily pose health problems for you or your partner. Moreover, they might not prevent pregnancy.
And well, let’s not forget, after catering to all of the things, you should be able to properly use the condom too. The lousy practice may lead to an unwanted pregnancy, or even worse, a sexually transmitted disease!

When To Talk To Your Doctor?

Sexual health is an essential aspect of your well-being. And having a healthy sexual life is a must.
 
Your doctor or health care provider is always a good place to drop by for contraception advice. This health care personnel can guide you about the correct usage and what to do if your condom slips or breaks during intercourse.
 
To conclude, we have established that if you wonder, “At what age can you buy condoms?” you should know that there is no legal age limit. And you can buy condoms anytime, whenever you need them!

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