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Durex Extra Safe

Durex Extra Safe

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  • ✔️ Thicker latex construction reduces risk of condom breakage
  • ✔️ Up to 98% effective against pregnancy when used correctly
  • ✔️ Provides dual protection against pregnancy and STIs
  • ✔️ Extra lubrication included for added comfort during use
  • ✔️ Suitable for vaginal, anal, and oral sex in adults

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Are Durex Extra Safe Condoms Right for You?

 

When it comes to contraception and sexual health, feeling confident in your choice of protection matters. Durex Extra Safe condoms are designed for people who want a little more reassurance during sex — they're made from natural rubber latex and are slightly thicker than standard Durex condoms, offering an extra layer of protection against both unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You can browse the full range of sexual health products in our condoms and sexual health collection at Cured Pharmacy.

Condoms are one of the most widely used forms of contraception in the UK. According to the NHS, male condoms are up to 98% effective when used correctly and consistently. That figure drops to around 82% with typical use — which is why choosing a condom you trust, and using it properly every time, makes a real difference.

 

How Do Durex Extra Safe Condoms Work?

 

Condoms work through a straightforward physical mechanism. They create a barrier that stops sperm from reaching the egg, and they also reduce skin-to-skin contact that can transmit STIs. Here's how the protection works in practice:

  • The condom is rolled over an erect penis before any genital contact occurs
  • The latex barrier prevents semen from entering the vagina, anus, or mouth
  • The thicker latex construction in Durex Extra Safe reduces the risk of tearing compared to thinner variants
  • A reservoir tip at the end collects semen after ejaculation, reducing the chance of leakage
  • The condom must be removed carefully after intercourse to avoid spillage

It's worth noting that no condom offers 100% protection against all STIs — some infections, such as herpes and HPV, can be transmitted through skin contact in areas not covered by the condom. Regular STI testing is still recommended if you have new or multiple partners.

 

Who Should Use Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

 

These condoms are suitable for a wide range of people. They're particularly well-suited to those who want added confidence in their contraception, or who have previously experienced condom breakage with thinner products. They're also a sensible choice for anyone who is new to using condoms and wants a more robust option while they build confidence.

  • Adults seeking extra reassurance during penetrative sex
  • People who have experienced condom breakage in the past
  • Those who prefer a slightly thicker feel for peace of mind
  • Anyone using condoms as their primary method of contraception

They are not suitable for people with a known latex allergy. If you or your partner has a latex sensitivity, a non-latex alternative should be used instead.

 

How Do Durex Extra Safe Condoms Compare to Standard Durex Condoms?

 

Feature Durex Extra Safe Durex Feel Thin (Standard)
Latex thickness Thicker than standard Standard thickness
Lubrication Extra lubricated Lubricated
Suitable for latex allergy No No
Primary benefit Extra reassurance, reduced breakage risk Natural sensation

 

How Should You Store Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

 

Proper storage is essential to maintain the integrity of any latex condom. Durex Extra Safe condoms should be kept below 30°C, away from direct sunlight, and well away from sharp objects — including keys, jewellery, or anything that could puncture the foil wrapper. Wallets are a common storage spot, but the heat and friction from sitting on them can degrade the latex over time.

Always check the expiry date printed on the foil before use. An expired condom is more likely to break. If you're looking for other products to support your sexual health and wellbeing, our personal lubricants collection includes water-based and silicone-based options that are safe to use with latex condoms.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Durex Extra Safe specifications
Treatment category Contraception and sexual health
Mechanism of action Physical barrier preventing sperm and STI transmission
Effective Up to 98% with correct and consistent use
Suitable for Adults without latex allergy
Active ingredient Natural rubber latex
Pack sizes 6, 12, and 18 condoms (varies by retailer)
UK classification General Sale / CE-marked medical device
Preparation Lubricated latex condom
Route of administration Topical (external use)

Specifications of Durex Extra Safe

 

What Is Durex Extra Safe and What Is It Used For?

 

Durex Extra Safe is a latex male condom designed to be used during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It is used to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy and to lower the chance of transmitting or acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and others. The NHS recommends condoms as the only contraceptive method that provides dual protection against both pregnancy and STIs.

These condoms are slightly thicker than standard Durex variants and come with extra lubrication, making them a practical choice for people who prioritise reliability. They are a CE-marked medical device, meaning they meet European safety standards for contraceptive effectiveness and quality.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Durex Extra Safe?

 

Before using these condoms, there are some important points to be aware of:

  • Do not use if you or your partner has a known allergy to natural rubber latex — seek a non-latex alternative
  • Do not use if the foil packaging is damaged, torn, or has already been opened
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the wrapper
  • Do not use more than one condom at a time — this increases friction and the risk of tearing
  • Do not use with oil-based lubricants, as these degrade latex and significantly increase breakage risk
  • Not suitable for use as a sole contraceptive method in people who require highly reliable contraception — consider combining with another method

Regarding interactions with other products:

  • Oil-based products (e.g. petroleum jelly, body lotion, coconut oil, baby oil) — degrade latex and must be avoided
  • Water-based lubricants — safe to use with latex condoms
  • Silicone-based lubricants — generally safe with latex condoms
  • Vaginal medications (e.g. antifungal creams) — some oil-based formulations may affect latex integrity; check with your pharmacist

 

How Should You Use Durex Extra Safe?

 

Using a condom correctly every single time is what makes the difference between 98% effectiveness and the lower typical-use figure. Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Check the expiry date on the foil before opening
  2. Open the packet carefully — do not use teeth, scissors, or fingernails
  3. Make sure the condom is the right way round (it should unroll easily)
  4. Pinch the teat at the tip to remove any air
  5. Place the condom on the tip of the erect penis before any genital contact
  6. Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the penis
  7. After ejaculation, hold the condom at the base while withdrawing — do this before the penis becomes soft
  8. Remove the condom, wrap it in tissue, and dispose of it in a bin (not the toilet)
  9. Use a new condom for every act of intercourse
Indication Age Group Use Frequency
Contraception Adults One condom per act of intercourse Every time
STI prevention Adults One condom per act of intercourse Every time

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Durex Extra Safe?

 

Most people use latex condoms without any problems. However, some individuals may experience reactions, particularly if they have an undiagnosed latex sensitivity. If you're concerned about any reaction, our women's health collection includes products that may help manage related symptoms.

Common side effects:

  • Mild localised itching or irritation during or after use
  • Temporary redness of the skin in the genital area
  • Mild discomfort if the condom is not correctly sized or lubricated

Less common side effects:

  • Swelling or hives in the genital area — may indicate latex allergy
  • Vaginal irritation in the partner, which may be related to the lubricant or latex
  • In rare cases, a systemic allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — seek emergency medical help immediately if breathing difficulties, widespread rash, or swelling of the face or throat occur

If you or your partner experience any signs of an allergic reaction, stop using the product immediately and consult a pharmacist or GP. You may also want to explore our men's health collection for further support and guidance.

 

How Should You Store Durex Extra Safe?

 

  • Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat
  • Do not store in a wallet for extended periods — friction and body heat can degrade the latex
  • Keep away from sharp objects that could puncture the foil packaging
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Do not freeze

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Durex Extra Safe condoms online in the UK?

You can buy Durex Extra Safe condoms directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, with discreet packaging and fast UK delivery. They are available without a prescription and are listed in our condoms and sexual health collection. No consultation is required to purchase.

How do Durex Extra Safe condoms work to prevent pregnancy?

Durex Extra Safe condoms work by forming a physical latex barrier over the penis, which prevents sperm from entering the vagina and reaching an egg. When used correctly and consistently, they are up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. They also reduce the risk of STI transmission by limiting direct skin and fluid contact.

How do I use Durex Extra Safe condoms step by step?

Check the expiry date, open the foil carefully without using teeth or scissors, and pinch the teat before rolling the condom down to the base of an erect penis — before any genital contact. After sex, hold the base of the condom while withdrawing, then remove, wrap in tissue, and bin it. Use a fresh condom for every act of intercourse.

Are Durex Extra Safe condoms thicker than regular condoms?

Yes — Durex Extra Safe condoms are made with a slightly thicker latex construction compared to standard Durex variants such as Durex Feel Thin. This extra thickness is designed to reduce the risk of tearing and provide added reassurance, particularly for people who have experienced breakage with thinner condoms in the past. They also come with extra lubrication.

Can I use lubricant with Durex Extra Safe condoms?

Yes, but only water-based or silicone-based lubricants are safe to use with latex condoms. Oil-based products — including petroleum jelly, coconut oil, body lotion, and baby oil — can break down the latex and significantly increase the risk of the condom splitting. You can find compatible options in our personal lubricants collection.

What are the side effects of using Durex Extra Safe condoms?

Most people use latex condoms without any adverse effects. Some individuals may experience mild localised itching, redness, or irritation, which can indicate a latex sensitivity or a reaction to the lubricant. In rare cases, a more significant allergic reaction may occur — if you notice swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, stop use immediately and seek medical attention.

Who is eligible to use Durex Extra Safe condoms?

Durex Extra Safe condoms are suitable for any adult who does not have a known allergy to natural rubber latex. They are appropriate for use during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. People with a latex allergy should use a non-latex alternative, such as polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms, to avoid a potentially serious allergic reaction.

How effective are Durex Extra Safe condoms at preventing STIs?

Condoms are one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of STIs including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and hepatitis B when used correctly every time. However, they do not provide complete protection against infections spread through skin contact in uncovered areas, such as herpes or HPV. Regular STI testing is still recommended if you have new or multiple sexual partners.

What happens if a Durex Extra Safe condom breaks during sex?

If a condom breaks during sex, emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) may be needed to reduce the risk of pregnancy — it is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. You should also consider getting an STI test, particularly if you or your partner has not been recently tested. Speak to a pharmacist or visit a sexual health clinic for advice.

Are Durex Extra Safe condoms suitable for anal sex?

Yes, Durex Extra Safe condoms can be used for anal sex. The thicker latex construction makes them a sensible choice for anal intercourse, where the risk of tearing may be higher than during vaginal sex. Using a compatible water-based or silicone-based lubricant alongside the condom is strongly recommended to reduce friction and further lower the risk of breakage.

What are the alternatives to Durex Extra Safe condoms?

Alternatives include standard Durex condoms for those who prefer a thinner feel, non-latex condoms (polyurethane or polyisoprene) for people with latex allergies, and female condoms. For pregnancy prevention alone, other contraceptive methods such as the pill, coil, or implant may be considered — though only condoms also protect against STIs. Browse our full condoms and sexual health range for more options.

How should I store Durex Extra Safe condoms to keep them effective?

Store Durex Extra Safe condoms in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and sharp objects. Avoid keeping them in a wallet long-term, as body heat and friction can degrade the latex over time. Always check the expiry date on the foil before use — an expired condom is more likely to break and should be discarded.

Can Durex Extra Safe condoms be used with vaginal medications?

Some vaginal medications — particularly oil-based antifungal creams used to treat thrush — can weaken latex condoms and increase the risk of breakage. If you are using a vaginal treatment, check with your pharmacist before relying on a condom for contraception during that time. Water-based formulations are generally safer to use alongside latex condoms.

How long can you use Durex Extra Safe condoms for?

There is no limit on how long you can use condoms as a contraceptive method — they are safe for ongoing, long-term use. Each individual condom should only be used once and then discarded. As long as the condoms are within their expiry date and stored correctly, they remain effective for the duration of their shelf life, which is typically around five years from manufacture.

What is the latest guidance on condom use for STI prevention in the UK?

The NHS and Public Health England continue to recommend consistent condom use as a key strategy for reducing STI transmission, particularly for people with new or multiple partners. Current guidance also encourages regular STI testing — at least annually, or more frequently if you change partners. Condoms remain the only contraceptive method that offers protection against both pregnancy and STIs simultaneously.

How Should You Use Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

Using a condom correctly every time is essential to getting the most protection from it. Even a small error in technique can reduce effectiveness significantly, so it's worth taking a moment to follow these steps carefully each time.

Follow this step-by-step guide for correct use:

What Is the Correct Dose of Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

Condoms are not a medicine with a measurable dose, but the principle of "one condom per act of intercourse" is the equivalent rule. Using more than one condom at a time is not safer — it actually increases friction and the risk of tearing.

The table below summarises correct usage by indication and context:

When Is the Best Time to Use Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

The condom must be put on before any genital contact — not just before ejaculation. Pre-ejaculatory fluid can contain sperm and may also transmit STIs, so waiting until just before climax is not sufficient protection. Putting the condom on as soon as the penis is erect, before any contact with a partner's genitals, mouth, or anus, is the correct approach.

If the condom comes off or breaks during sex, withdraw immediately, and consider emergency contraception if pregnancy is a concern. Speak to a pharmacist as soon as possible.

How Long Can You Use Durex Extra Safe Condoms For?

You can use condoms as your primary contraceptive method indefinitely — there is no time limit on their use as a contraceptive strategy. Each individual condom is single-use only and must be discarded after one act of intercourse. Condoms have a shelf life of approximately five years from the date of manufacture, provided they are stored correctly in a cool, dry place below 30°C.

Always check the expiry date before use. If you are relying on condoms as your sole method of contraception, speak to a sexual health professional about whether combining them with another method might be appropriate for your circumstances.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

The majority of people use latex condoms without experiencing any side effects at all. However, some individuals may notice mild reactions, particularly if they have an undiagnosed sensitivity to natural rubber latex or to the lubricant used on the condom. These reactions are usually localised and resolve quickly once use is stopped.

  • Mild itching or irritation in the genital area during or after use
  • Temporary redness or warmth of the skin
  • Mild discomfort if the condom is not the correct size or is insufficiently lubricated

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

Less commonly, some people may experience more noticeable reactions that suggest a latex sensitivity or allergy. These are more likely to occur in people who have had previous reactions to rubber gloves or other latex products, and they should not be ignored.

  • Swelling or hives (urticaria) in the genital area or on the hands
  • Vaginal irritation or discharge in the partner, which may be related to the latex or lubricant
  • Burning sensation that persists after intercourse
  • Contact dermatitis — a red, itchy rash that develops in the area of contact

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Durex Extra Safe Condoms?

In rare cases, a person with a latex allergy may experience a systemic allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). This is a medical emergency. Symptoms can include widespread hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, a rapid heartbeat, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. If any of these occur, call 999 immediately.

Latex allergy is more common in people who have had repeated exposure to latex products, such as healthcare workers, or in people with certain food allergies (e.g. to bananas, avocados, or kiwi fruit). If you suspect you may have a latex allergy, do not use latex condoms and speak to your GP.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice mild irritation or itching, stop using the condom and allow the area to settle. Avoid scratching, as this can worsen irritation. If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, or if you develop a rash, swelling, or any sign of a more serious reaction, contact your GP or pharmacist promptly.

If you suspect a latex allergy, your GP can refer you for allergy testing. In the meantime, non-latex condoms made from polyurethane or polyisoprene are available as alternatives and offer similar levels of protection against pregnancy and STIs.

Can Durex Extra Safe Condoms Interact With Other Products?

Durex Extra Safe condoms do not interact with medicines in the traditional pharmacological sense, but certain products can physically degrade the latex and reduce the condom's effectiveness. Oil-based substances are the main concern — these include petroleum jelly, body lotion, coconut oil, baby oil, and some oil-based vaginal medications such as certain antifungal creams used to treat thrush. Always use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant with latex condoms. If you are using any vaginal treatment, check with your pharmacist before relying on a condom for contraception during that period.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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