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Male condom

Male Condom

Non-Hormonal Method

  • Barrier Method

  • Non-Invasive

  • Per Use

A condom is a thin film sheath that is placed over a man’s erect penis before having sex.
Effective
0 %

Details

Condoms are sometimes called a β€œbarrier” method of contraception. They are made of very thin latex (rubber) or similar material. Β They prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from meeting an egg.

Condoms are the only type of contraception that can prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs) if used correctly. To be effective, male condoms have to be used every time you have sex. When used correctly, male condoms are 98% effective against pregnancy.

Some people are allergic to latex, in which case using polyurethane or polyisoprene condomsΒ may help prevent an allergic reaction.

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How to Use

Using a condom can be an enjoyable part of sex and does not have to feel like an interruption. To use it, gently roll the condom down to the base of the erect penis.

After sex, take out the penis while it is still erect, making sure to hold the condom onΒ at the base of the penis while you do this, and be careful not to spill any semen. Remove the condom from the penis and throw it away. If you have sex again, use a new condom.

Do not use oil-based lubricants – such as lotion, body oil orΒ petroleum jelly if you are using latex condoms. These can damage the condom and may cause it to split.

PROS

  • Can be used on demand and are readily available
  • If used correctly, they are 98% effective against pregnancy
  • Protect against STIs if used correctly during vaginal, anal and oral sex
  • They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and flavours

CONS

  • Can interrupt sex
  • Can tear or come off during sex if not used correctly
  • Some people are allergic to latex

Side Effects

There are none, although some people may be allergic to latex

FAQs

What is a male condom?
A condom is a thin film sheath placed over a man’s erect penis before sex.
Are condoms effective against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
There is a range of tests performed by both regulatory agencies and condom manufacturers. These include electronic testing, the water leak test, the air burst test and the strength test.
How are condoms tested?
There is a range of tests performed by both regulatory agencies and condom manufacturers. These include electronic testing, the water leak test, the air burst test and the strength test.
How can I check a condom is safe to use?
Check that the use-by date has not expired, that they carry a standards approval mark (either FDA, ISO, CE or the British Standard Kite Mark), and that they have been properly stored.
Are female condoms harder to use than male condoms?
As with most barrier methods, it can take a bit of practice to use this method correctly. As long as you are clear on how to use them, you should get the hang of it.
How often do condoms fail?
Compared to modern hormonal methods, condoms are less reliable and effective in protecting against pregnancy but they are the only method that will protect against STIs, including HIV/AIDS.

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