Male condom
The male condom is a sheath
that wraps around the penis to prevent semen from entering the vagina. A condom
is a barrier method of contraception made from latex, polyurethane, or
sheepskin that should be discarded after each use.
How do male condoms work?
Most male condoms have a small
reservoir at the end of the condom used to collect semen during ejaculation.
The male condom reduces the chance of direct contact of the vagina and cervix
with the penis or penile secretions. Some condoms contain a spermicidal agent
designed to kill sperm.
2 out of 100 condoms break.
Lubricant can be used to prevent condoms from breaking, but not all lubricants
are safe to use with latex condoms.
How effective is the male condom?
Typical use of male condoms,
which is how most people use them, has a 14-15% failure rate. This means that
14 to 15 out of 100 people will get pregnant within the first year of use.
Spermicidal agents increase effectiveness to over 95% when used correctly and
consistently. You must take a pregnancy test if you have symptoms of pregnancy.
What are the side effects or health risks of male condoms?
Male condoms have no side
effects, except for those who are allergic to latex.
Is the male condom reversible?
Yes. It is possible to get
pregnant right away if condoms are no longer used.
What about male condoms and sexually transmitted infections?
Condoms are the only
contraceptive method that can reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted
infections. However, condoms are not "safe sex" but rather "safe
sex".
- Syphilis transmission is reduced by 29% with normal use. It is reduced by 50-71% with the correct use of condoms in 100% of cases.
- Transmission of gonorrhea and chlamydia is reduced by about 50% even with 100% condom use.
- Transmission of genital herpes is reduced by approximately 40%
- HIV transmission is reduced by about 85% with the correct use of condoms in 100% of cases.
- Condoms also reduce human papillomavirus transmission. Condoms help prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections by reducing the chance of contact with a partner through genital contact or fluid. Condoms only reduce the chance of infection, but do not prevent it.
What are the pros and cons of male condoms?
Pros of male condoms include:
- It is one of the few forms of birth control that provides any reduction in the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases
- Condoms are inexpensive and easily obtained
- No side effects unless you are allergic to latex
- You do not need a prescription
- Condoms are small, easy to carry, and disposable
The cons of
male condoms include:
- Some men complain condoms dull sensations
- May be considered an interruption during intimate foreplay
- Requires consistent and diligent use
- Typical use has a failure rate of approximately 14%
- It places more responsibility on the male partner