Condoms are a barrier method of contraception. There are male condoms and female condoms. A male condom is a thin sheath (usually made of latex, a type of rubber) that is worn on the penis. A female condom is a polyurethane sheath with a flexible ring at either end. One end is closed and inserted into the vagina; the other end is open and the ring sits outside the opening of the vagina. The male condom, sometimes called a "rubber" or "prophylactic," is far more commonly used.
Condoms prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from getting into the uterus. They must be used every time you have sex.
Condoms aren't expensive and are widely available. They can be combined with other methods of birth control. Condoms are an especially good choice if you or your partner are also having sex with other people or if either of you have had sex with other people in the past.
Of all the barrier method options, condoms offer the most protection against STIs and HIV. Using a spermicide with condoms can offer better protection against pregnancy, but it may not increase your protection against STIs. Spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 can cause genital irritation and may actually increase your risk of catching an STI.
Female condoms aren't as effective as male condoms, but they may be a good choice if a man won't use a male condom.
How to decide if condoms with spermicide are a good choice for you:
- If you want to protect yourself from diseases that can be passed by having sex, called sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- If you have trouble swallowing a pill or can't remember to take a daily birth control pill at the same time every day
- If you are a nursing mother, this is a safe choice
Please learn more about condoms and spermicide by choosing any of the questions below.
How effective are condoms?
| Used exactly as recommended | Typical Use |
Male Condom and spermicide | 98% | 85% |
Female Condom and spermicide | 95% | 79% |
Spermicide | 85% | 71% |
How effective are condoms at protecting against STIs?
- Latex Condoms for Men
Latex condoms are made of a particular kind of rubber. Laboratory studies show that intact latex condoms provide a highly effective barrier to sperm and micro-organisms, including HIV and the much smaller hepatitis B virus. Their effectiveness has been proven over many years. Use only water-based lubricants with latex condoms. - Synthetic Condoms
For people who are allergic to latex, several new types of materials are being used to make condoms. One new type is polyurethane, a soft plastic. Another new type is Tactylon TM, a synthetic latex. Lab tests have shown that both these materials provide an effective barrier against sperm, bacteria, and viruses such as HIV. - Polyurethane Condoms for Women
The female condom (Reality TM) fits inside the vagina and covers some of the area outside of the vagina. It also is made of polyurethane. When a male condom cannot be used, couples should consider using a female condom.
How do I get condoms?
Condoms are available without prescription. Also, all are available in drug stores, supermarkets, convenience stores as well as over the Internet. CFHC has free samples of male/female condoms and spermicides.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using condoms?
Advantages:
- Easy to buy in drugstores, markets
- Male condoms can help relieve early ejaculation
- Protects against many infections, including HIV
- Can be put on as part of sex play
- Can be used while breastfeeding
Disadvantages and Side Effects:
- A new condom MUST be used each time you have sex
- Some people have a latex allergy – latex is commonly used in male condoms
- Female condoms may be noisy
- May be hard to use/insert
- May irritate vagina, penis
- Can break
- Male condoms may slip off, female condoms may slip out of place
- Using spermicide nonoxynol-9 may increase risk of HIV infection
- May irritate vagina, penis
- Cream, gel, and foam can be messy
What are the warning signs of problems with using condoms?
Warning signs include:
- Severe itching, burning, swelling or rash – may indicate allergy towards latex and/or the spermicide being used
SPECIAL NOTES
Most male condoms are made of latex. Those made of lambskin may offer less protection against some STIs, including HIV/AIDS, so use of latex condoms is recommended. For people who may have an allergic skin reaction to latex, both male and female condoms made of polyurethane are available.
Once a condom is used, it cannot be reused. A new condom should be used each time you have sex — and it must be used from start to finish every time you have sex to prevent pregnancy and STIs. Never use oil-based lubricants such as mineral oil, petroleum jelly, or baby oil with condoms because these substances can break down the rubber. A used condom should be thrown in the garbage, not down the toilet.
And if a condom ever seems dry, sticky, or stiff when it comes out of the package, or if it is past its expiration date, throw it away and use a new one. It's a good idea to have several condoms on hand in case there is a problem with one. It's best to store unused condoms in a cool, dry place