CONDOMS

Male condoms are made of latex or polyurethane and slip over the penis. A condom is not 100 % effective in preventing pregnancy. It is important to use a condom correctly every time to lower the risk of pregnancy and the transmission of STIs, especially HIV.

Details

STI reduction! The best thing about latex condoms is that they reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, when used correctly and every time. They do not eliminate the risk completely, however. The most reliable way to avoid transmission of STIs, including HIV, is to abstain from sexual activity or be in a relationship that is faithful, with one uninfected person. Many infected people, however, may be unaware of their infections because STIs don’t always show symptoms.

Condoms take effort and commitment. You have to make sure to use them correctly, every time, no matter what, in order for them to be most effective.

Cheap and easy to find. Condoms are inexpensive (and sometimes even free from clinics). They are found just about everywhere, from drug stores to supermarkets.

No prescription is necessary. It is not necessary to go to the doctor in order to make use of condoms. But you will need to see a doctor in order to be checked for STIs regularly if you are having sex.

Not so good if you're allergic to latex. If you're allergic to latex, there are polyurethane (plastic) condoms. There are also lambskin condoms, but they do not reduce STI transmission.

Cost

Free

Usage

How to put a condom on

(instructions included in condom package)

Check the expiration date. (Outdated condoms break easier.)
Put the condom on before any genital-to-genital contact. The fluid that leaks from a penis before ejaculation can contain sperm.
Use a new condom each time.
Be careful not to tear the condom when unwrapping it. If it's torn, brittle, or stiff, toss it and use another.
Leave a half-inch of extra space at the tip to collect the semen, then pinch the air out of the tip.
Unroll the condom over the erect penis as far as it will go.
Smooth out any air bubbles—they can cause condoms to break.

How to take a condom off

1. Hold on to the base of the condom while pulling out so that semen doesn't spill out.

2. Remove condom before the penis becomes flaccid.

3. Throw the condom away in a trash can (preferably one that is out of the reach of children and pets).

4. Be sure and wash hands and penis before any repeated contact.

Side Effects

Some people are allergic to latex. These people need to use a polyurethane condom.

They reduce the risk of transmission of STIs, don't require a prescription, and are inexpensive.

Effectiveness

The condom is less effective than hormonal methods of birth control, but much more effective than not using any method. They must be used correctly and consistently, every time.

Side effects

Usually none.

Effort

Condoms must be used correctly, before any genital-to-genital contact, EVERY time.

How do I get it?

Drug stores, clinics, supermarkets.