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 (http://www.healthunit.org/sexual/sti_aids/sti_aids.htm)
• 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: