Does Dollar General Sell Condoms In 2024? (Full Guide)
As a retail analyst, I often get asked whether major discount stores like Dollar General sell key personal care items like condoms. With condoms being an essential health product for millions of Americans, I wanted to provide a detailed guide on buying them at Dollar General in 2024.
Condom Use in the U.S.
According to the CDC, condoms are the most common form of contraception in the U.S.
- About 15% of all sexually active Americans relied on condoms for contraception in 2019. That‘s around 12 million people. [1]
- However, STI rates remain high, with 1 in 5 Americans having an STI. This points to inconsistent condom use. [2]
Making condoms readily accessible and affordable is key to encouraging safer sexual practices.
What Brands and Styles of Condoms Does Dollar General Sell?
Dollar General stocks a wide selection of name brand and private label condoms to meet shoppers‘ needs. Here are the key details:
Lifestyles Condoms
The most prominent brand sold at Dollar General, available in:
- Original lubricated latex
- Ultra-sensitive lubricated latex
- Extra strength lubricated latex
- Studded and ribbed textures
- Thin options like Skyn original and Skyn Elite
- Sizes: Regular, large
Trojan Condoms
Trojan is another leading brand carried, with these varieties:
- Natural lamb skin
- Ultra-thin latex
- Intense ribbed latex
- Studded latex
- BareSkin lubricated latex
- Magnum and Magnum XL latex sizes
- Non-latex options
Other Brands
Other name brands typically stocked:
- Durex: Original, thin, and sensitive latex
- One: Aloe-lubricated latex
- Trustex: Ribbed and lubricated latex
Private Label
- True Living: Regular lubricated latex condoms
Condom Prices at Dollar General
One reason why shoppers gravitate towards Dollar General for condoms is the value pricing. Here‘s a price comparison on top-selling condoms:
| Condom Brand & Style | Price at Dollar General | Price at CVS |
|---|---|---|
| Lifestyles 12ct Original | $6 | $8 |
| Trojan 12ct Ultra Thin | $7 | $10 |
| Durex 24ct Extra Sensitive | $18 | $22 |
| True Living 12ct | $6 | N/A |
Dollar General condoms cost 20-25% less on average than drugstores. This makes them more affordable for shoppers on a budget.
Pros of Buying Condoms at Dollar General
Here are some potential advantages to purchasing condoms at Dollar General versus competitors:
Convenience – With over 18,000 locations across the U.S., there‘s likely a Dollar General near you. No need to make an extra stop.
Privacy – The small format stores tend to be quicker to navigate in and out when making sensitive purchases.
Value Pricing – As shown above, condoms cost notably less at Dollar General.
In-Store Accessibility – Condoms are easy to locate right on the shelves without asking an employee to unlock a case.
Wide Selection – Dollar General stocks an array of brand name and private label condoms to suit different needs and budgets.
Cons of Buying Condoms at Dollar General
However, there are a few drawbacks to note as well:
Limited Size Range – Selection tends to focus on standard/regular condoms, with fewer specialty fits.
Stock Limitations – High-demand items may be out-of-stock. Less ability to order than a full-scale pharmacy.
No Expert Guidance – Employees aren‘t trained to advise on condoms or sexual health.
Privacy Concerns – Being a small store, other shoppers may notice sensitive purchases.
The Final Take
Dollar General is a solid option for buying affordable, trusted brand condoms conveniently. But for personalized advice or fittings, specialists like condom subscription services or Planned Parenthood may be better equipped. As always, it‘s smart to combine condoms with other prevention methods like routine STI testing for optimal protection.
References
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db388.htm[2] https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2019/default.htm
