Condoms represent a barrier birth control method. They are designed for both men and women. However, male condoms are the most popular and common used.
A male condom is a thin sheath made of latex (a kind of rubber) that is put on the erect penis prior to the intercourse. A female condom is a sheath made of polyurethane provided with a flexible ring at an end. The very ring features an open end and sits at the opening of the vagina. The another end is closed and is inserted within the vagina.
Now let's find out how do condoms work.
Generally condoms are meant to block the semen (the fluid that contains sperm) to enter the vagina.
The male condom is put on a man's stiff penis. The partner should unroll the condom all the way to the base of his (or her man's) penis while holding the tip of the condom to leave a space for sperm after ejaculation.
The female condom is meant to be inserted into a woman's vagina. This polyurethane sheath lines and covers vagina's walls thus creating a barrier between the sperm and the cervix. The condom should be introduced up to eight hours before sex and removed right away after the lovemaking.
NB. Male and female condoms shouldn't be used simultaneously. The problem is that they can get stuck together and slip during sex session.
Now it's a high time to take some rules into consideration and to remind of them:
1. The used condom should never be reused!
2. After coitus the condom should be thrown away in a garbage! Never flush it down the toilet!
3. Never use oil-based lubricants with condoms! These substances can make the rubber to tear and crack.
4. Throw away the condom that seems dry, sticky or that's past its expiration date!
5. Have a couple of condoms handily in case one breaks or you notice any problem with it.
6. Store unused condoms in a cool and dry place!
What about condoms' effectiveness?
How effectively does a condom work?
During one year about 25 out of 100 ordinary couples who consistently use only male condoms as method of contraception will have an occasional pregnancy. 21 out of 100 couples will have an unexpected pregnancy when relying on female condoms only. Briefly saying the female condom is less effective and reliable than the male one.
Of course, this data estimates average results and the probability of getting pregnant depends on many other factors, such as consistency and correctiveness of condom's usage, the convenience of this barrier method for both sex partners, etc.
Condoms are great for preventing unplanned pregnancy. But they are also truly effective in protecting against different STDs, including HIV/AIDS but excluding pubic lice or scabs.
The majority of male condoms are made out of latex. This material is considered more reliable than lambskin when it comes to protection against sexually transmitted infections. Those individuals who have allergic reactions to latex can easily resort to male and female polyurethane condoms.
Which are the main common side effects of condoms?
Most women and men do not face any complications and difficulties when using condoms. However, there are certain side effects that may occasionally occur, such as:
- allergy to latex material;
- irritation of one's genitals from spermicides or lubricants that some condoms are treated with.
Who usually use condoms?
Condoms are usually used by those individuals who eagerly want to lead a healthy sexual life. They are couples who are ready to interrupt a passionate foreplay for putting a condom on and to prevent the transmission of STDs. Condoms are also a a suitable deal for those persons who have no money to spend on other birth control methods.
Condoms are very popular, they can be purchased over the counter with no medical prescription at any drugstore, supermarket or pharmacy. Furthermore, they come in different sizes, tastes, shapes, forms, colors, textures so they can fit the preferences of any individual. Condoms are least expensive and sometimes they are distributed for free in many schools, organizations, health centers, planning clinics, etc. Female condoms cost a little bit more and are not found for free. However, they do cost low in comparison with other birth control methods.
If you review the information revealed you should ascertain the fact that condoms represent a great way to prevent pregnancy and to protect against severe sexual diseases. So, think over the benefits and risks related to this barrier method and take the correct decision concerning your sexual life!
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