Sexual Health - STD / AIDS
- Birth Control Options - Male Condom
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Male Condom
What is it?
The male condom is a latex sheath that fits over an erect penis during oral, vaginal or anal sex. Condoms are useful in preventing both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. A condom should always be used in combination with a spermicide.
- Condoms are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, colours, flavours and textures
- They can be made of latex, polyurethane, silicone or lambskin
- Condoms made of animal tissue (e.g. lambskin) do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- Polyurethane condoms can be used if you or your partner has an allergy to latex
- Condoms are available with: no lubricant, a water-based or silicone lubricant or a spermicidal lubricant
How does it work?
- Fits over an erect penis
- It collects pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) and semen and prevents the exchange of body fluids during sex
- Acts as a physical barrier, preventing sperm from entering the uterus and fertilizing the egg
- A new condom must be used for each act of intercourse
Here is an interactive demonstration on how to put on a condom correctly.
How effective is it?
With typical use, condoms are about 85% effective in preventing pregnancy. When used in combination with a spermicide, they can be up to 97-98% effective.
What are the Advantages?
- Prevent against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections
- Allows the male partner to assume some responsibility for birth control
- Both partners can participate in their use
- May help to maintain an erection and avoid premature ejaculation
- Widely available in stores without a doctor's prescription
- Inexpensive
- Cut lengthwise, a latex condom can be used as a barrier during oral sex with a female partner or oral-anal contact with a partner
What are the Disadvantages?
- Must be available at the time of intercourse
- May slip off or break
- Must be stored and handled properly
- May cause skin irritation
- People with latex allergies cannot use latex condoms, but may be able to use non-latex condoms
- Because of additives, some flavoured condoms may cause vaginal irritation
- May reduce sensitivity for either partner (sensation may be increased with the use of water-based lubricant inside the tip of the condom)
- Lambskin condoms do not protect against sexually transmitted infections
Important Points to Remember:
- Do not use oil-based lubricants (petroleum jelly/Vaseline, mineral oil, baby oil, vegetable oil, massage oil, etc.) as they can break down the latex in condoms
- Remember that condoms have an expiry date. Do not use the condom if it is expired.
- Extra-strength condoms with additional water-based lubricant are recommended for anal sex
- Condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place
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