Your Guide to Birth Control: Condoms

• What is a male condom?
• What are male condoms made of?
• What types of latex condoms are there?
• When should a man use a condom?
• How is the male condom used?
• What causes male condoms to break?
• What causes condoms to come off during sex?
• Where can I get male condoms?
• How effective are male condoms at preventing pregnancy?
• How do male condoms prevent STDs?
• Should foam be Used with male condoms?
• How effective are foam and male condoms?
• What is a female condom?
• Where can I get female condoms?
• How effective is the female condom at preventing pregnancy?
• Do female condoms protect against STDs?

Birth control is a way for men and women to prevent pregnancy. There are many different methods of birth control; some types also protect against sexually transmitted diseases . Condoms are one type of birth control that in addition to preventing pregnancy also prevent the spread of STDs.

What Is a Male Condom?

The male condom, or "rubber," is a thin covering made of latex, plastic, or animal membrane that is rolled over an erect penis. The covering prevents semen, the fluid that contains sperm, from entering a woman's vagina.

What Are Male Condoms Made of?

Most condoms are made of a type of rubber called "latex." Recently, condoms made of polyurethane (a type of plastic) have become available. These are more expensive than latex condoms and seem to break more easily. They are mainly useful for people who are allergic to latex. There are also "natural" condoms, which are made of animal membranes. These are expensive and probably not effective in preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

What Types of Latex Condoms Are There?

Condoms come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. Here are some characteristics to consider when buying condoms.

• Size. The standard size will fit most men. Extra-large condoms are available, as well as "snug" sizes that are a little smaller and fit tighter than the standard size.
• Shape. Some condoms come with a nipple in the end to hold the fluid when the man ejaculates. Others have a rounded end.
• Thickness. Extra-strength condoms are available. These are stronger and are especially useful for rectal sex and for men who have problems with condom breakage. Extra thin condoms also are available, but these are not recommended because they may break more easily.
• Lubrication. Many condoms come pre-lubricated with a substance that kills sperm (spermicide) and many disease-causing germs. Lubrication may give some extra protection, especially if the condom breaks. Lubricated condoms taste bad and are not recommended for oral sex.
• Flavored. These condoms are meant for the male to wear when receiving oral sex. They are not lubricated and have a mild flavor (usually mint).
• Color. Condoms come in many colors. The color of the condom doesn't make it any more or less effective.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Natural Methods of Birth Control - Natural methods of birth control are non-mechanical and non-hormonal. They are also considered fertility awareness methods and there are a variety of choices for natural birth control.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women (STDs) - Learn and become aware of common STDs in women, including descriptions, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of each type of infection.
• Vasectomy - A vasectomy is a simple surgical procedure used as a permanent form of male birth control. The odds of pregnancy after a vasectomy are low and the side effects are few.

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