CONDOMS
Although condoms have been in use since ancient times, Casanova was the first to popularize their use. They were at first made of linen or animal intestines, but at the advent of vulcanized rubber in the 1840's they took on the name "rubbers" and were mass produced. There are many types of condoms available; most are made of latex rubber, but some are made from polyurethane or even animal tissue (e.g., "natural skin"). They may be lubricated, ribbed, or treated with spermicide, and may be purchased without a prescription. Condoms are convenient and easy to use. They can help both partners from giving each other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Male Condoms
Average Failure Rate: 14%
The condom is a thin shield that is worn on the penis.
It traps the semen expelled from the penis during intercourse,
preventing sperm from entering the vagina. A man must put on
a condom while he has an erection but before intercourse.
Afterward, he should withdraw immediately to prevent leakage.
Although condoms can be effective, they sometimes
break during intercourse. For this reason it is suggested
that they be stored in a cool, dry place; oil-based lubricants
(such as Vaseline or baby oil) should not be used as they can
weaken latex condoms. Even medication for female yeast
infection can cause condom failure.
Condoms, especially the spermicidal variety, increase the risk
of urinary tract infections in women. In fact spermicidal
condoms have not been shown to be more effective than condoms
without spermicide. Some men and women find the latex
irritating due to allergy, and spermicidal condoms can worsen
the allergenic properties of the latex. For sensitive
individuals, non-spermicidal polyurethane or natural skin
condoms may be more acceptable. Natural skin condoms, however,
are expensive and do not protect against disease, and
polyurethane condoms are more likely to break. Most men
report reduced sensitivity during intercourse, some men find they
cannot retain an erection when a condom is used, and condoms
may affect the spontaneity of intercourse. When used
consistently by married couples, condoms can be very effective,
but failure rates are much higher for unmarried couples and
teenagers.
If a condom is to be effective, the most
important rule is to use it every single time. A new one must
be worn if intercourse is repeated.
Proper Condom Use
When used consistently and correctly, latex or polyurethane condoms can help prevent reproductive tract infections, including infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Condoms also provide good protection against unintended pregnancy. Bear in mind, however, that condoms can fail or break, even when used properly. Abstinence is the best way to avoid STD and accidental pregnancy.
BEFORE INTERCOURSE
- Have on hand an adequate supply of:
- latex or polyurethane condoms, even if you plan to use another contraceptive
- water-based lubricant (see table)
- extra condoms available in case the first is damaged or torn before use,
put on incorrectly, or if you have repeated intercourse
- Discuss condom use before you have intercourse.
AT TIME OF INTERCOURSE
- Open the condom package carefully to avoid damaging it with fingernails, teeth, or other sharp objects.
- Put on the condom before the penis comes in contact with the partner's mouth, anus, or vagina. If the penis is uncircumcised, pull the foreskin back before putting on the condom. Keep the condom on the penis until after intercourse or ejaculation.
- Unroll the condom a short distance to make sure the condom is being unrolled in the right direction. The rolled ring should be on the outside. Then hold the tip of the condom and unroll it down to the base of the erect penis. If the condom does not unroll easily, it is on upside-down and may expose the partner to infectious organisms contained in the pre-ejaculate. Discard and begin with a new condom.
- Adequate lubrication is important. For latex condoms, use only water-based lubricants like water; lubricating jellies (e.g., K-Y Jelly); or spermicidal creams, jellies, foam, or suppositories. Avoid oil-based lubricants like cold cream, mineral oil, cooking oil, petroleum jelly, body lotions, massage oil, or baby oil that can damage latex condoms (see table below). For polyurethane condoms, any type of lubricant can be used.
- If the condom breaks or falls off during intercourse but before ejaculation, stop and put on a new condom. A new condom can also be used when you have prolonged intercourse or different types of intercourse within a single session (e.g., vaginal and anal).
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Lubricants Which Can and Cannot be Used with Latex Condoms
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| Safe |
Unsafe |
- Spermicide
- Lubricants such as:
- Egg Whites
- Glycerine
- Saliva
- Water
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- Baby Oil
- Cold Cream
- Edible Oils (olive, peanut, corn, sunflower)
- Hand and Body Lotions
- Massage Oil
- Petroleum Jelly
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Suntan Oil and Lotion
- Vegetable or Mineral Oil
- Vaginal Lubricants containing Mineral Oil
- Vaginal Yeast Infection Medication (cream or suppositories)
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AFTER INTERCOURSE
- Soon after ejaculation, withdraw the penis while it is still erect. Hold the condom firmly against the base of the penis to prevent slippage and leakage of semen.
- Check the condom for visible damage such as holes, then wrap it in tissue and discard. Do not flush condoms down the toilet.
- If the condom breaks, falls off, leaks, or is not used--
- Gently wash the penis, vulva, anus, and adjacent areas with sopa and waater immediately after intercourse to help reduce the risk of acquiring an STD. Then insert an applicator full of spermicide into the vagina as soon as possible.
- Discuss the possibility of pregnancy or infection with your partner and contact your health care provider as soon as you can. Do not douche.
REPEATED INTERCOURSE
- Use a new condom from "start to finish" with each act of vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse. Do not reuse condoms.
TAKING CARE OF SUPPLIES
- Store condoms in a cool and dry place out of direct sunlight (heat may weaken latex).
- Check the expiration or manufacture date on the box or individual package of condoms. Expiration dates are marked as "Exp"; otherwise, the date is the manufacture date (MFG). Latex condoms should not be used beyond their expiration date or more than 5 years after the manufacturing date. Latex condoms with spermicide should probably be used within 2 years of the manufacture date. Condoms in damaged packages or that show obvious signs of deterioration (e.g., brittleness, stickiness, or discoloration) should not be used regardless of their expiration date.
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