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Condoms for Males
What are condoms?
Condoms are thin latex or plastic sheaths that are worn on the penis during intercourse to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections and/or prevent pregnancy. They are sometimes called rubbers, safes or jimmies.
How do condoms work?
Condoms work by collecting pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) and semen when a male ejaculates. This keeps sperm from entering the vagina, preventing pregnancy. Pregnancy cannot happen if the sperm does not meet the egg.
Also, by covering the penis and keeping semen out of the vagina, anus and mouth, condoms also reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
How effective is this method?
Because of user error, condoms can be anywhere between 85-98 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. If condoms are used correctly and consistently, they are 98 percent effective. Condoms are almost 100 percent effective when used with withdrawal.
What are the advantages of using this method?
- Easily found at drugstores, supermarkets and sometimes public restrooms.
- Can be put on as part of sex play.
- They can help relieve premature ejaculation.
- Condoms are relatively inexpensive and can often be found for free.
What are the disadvantages of using this method?
- Condoms have the possibility of breaking. If you have a condom break, you can take Emergency Contraception to reduce the chance of pregnancy.
- Some people have a latex allergy and it can be difficult and more expensive to find non-latex condoms.
- Some people feel there is a loss of sensation when using a condom and engaging in sexual play.
Want to learn how to correctly put on a condom?
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Cervical Cap
