What It Is

Condoms, which are also called rubbers or sheaths, are made of either latex or lambskin. Condoms prevent pregnancy by acting as a mechanical barrier, preventing the semen from entering the vagina. Condoms come in different shapes, colors, textures, and sizes. They may be lubricated, and some contain spermicide to increase effectiveness. Some condoms have a special "reservoir" at the end to hold semen. The effectiveness rate for condoms ranges from 88 to 97 percent. Used in combination with other methods of birth control or with spermicidal foam, cream, or jelly, condoms can provide even more effective protection against pregnancy. Condoms are also one of the most effective means of protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.

How It Works

A condom acts as a physical barrier between sperm and egg. With a condom on, the sperm stays in the condom and does not enter the cervix. Condoms are very effective at preventing unintended pregnancy when used consistently and correctly. They are even more effective if used with a spermicide.

Advantages

• Available without a prescription
• Easy to use
• Provides spontaneous protection against pregnancy
• No side effects
• One of the most effective methods for protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV
• Man can take responsibility for birth control

Disadvantages

• May interrupt sex
• May lessen the sensation during intercourse
• Can break or leak

Possible Side Effects

In general, condoms are free of side effects. Some people may have an allergic reaction to latex, in which case, lambskin is an option.

How To Use Condoms

It's best to have the condom readily available, so that it can be put on the erect penis before any genital contact is made. Unroll the condom over the erect penis. Leave a half-inch of space at the end of the condom to collect the sperm, or use a condom with a built-in reservoir at the tip.

A lubricated condom can make it easier for the penis to enter the vagina and can cut down on vaginal irritation. Some condoms come already lubricated. Non-lubricated condoms can be lubricated by using contraceptive foam, K-Y jelly, or saliva. Do not use Vaseline, lotions, or any other petroleum products (which contain oil) to lubricate a condom because the oil destroys the latex. Following intercourse, hold the rim of the condom and slowly take the penis out of the vagina while the penis is still erect. If the penis becomes soft, the condom might slip off and allow sperm to enter the vagina.

Store condoms away from heat, which can degrade the rubber. Do not store condoms in your wallet, pocket, or glove compartment. Condoms will last five years if stored away from heat.

Always use a new condom every time you have intercourse. If the condom irritates either partner, call your clinician for advice.

Make sure you know how to obtain emergency contraception. in the event the condom breaks.

How to Protect Against STIs and HIV/AIDS

The only way to guard against getting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is not to have sex or to ave sex only with partners who you know are free of infection. If you do have sex, you should use a latex barrier, such as a male condom, a female condom, or a dental dam, every time. Condoms provide protection against against STIs, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Tapestry Health clinicians recommend using such barriers even in combination with other methods of birth control. Latex condoms are preferred to lambskin condoms for the prevention of STIs. Using a spermicide together with a latex barrier can also help keep you from getting an STI.

If you have any questions about condoms, talk to your clinician.