What is a male condom?

The male condom, sometimes called a rubber, is a barrier method of birth control used by men. It is a disposable, tube-shaped piece of thin latex rubber or animal membrane. It is rolled over the erect penis just before intercourse. There is usually a place at the tip of the condom to hold ejaculated semen. The condom provides a barrier that stops sperm from entering a woman's uterus. Latex condoms also provide a barrier against the transmission of sexually transmitted disease.

Male condoms are available in a wide variety of styles, colors, and textures. Most condoms are similar in size and fit most men. Some condoms are coated with a special lubricant that kills sperm.

How is it used?

Use a new condom every time you have intercourse. Either partner can place the condom over the tip of the erect penis, leaving a space at the top of the condom. Roll it down to cover the entire penis. Squeeze the tip of the condom as you roll it on to release any trapped air and prevent it from bursting during ejaculation. After ejaculation and while the penis is still erect, carefully withdraw the penis from the vagina. It is very important while withdrawing the penis to hold the base of the condom firmly so it does not slip off and spill any sperm. Throw the used condom away. Do not reuse it.

Using a spermicide foam or jelly with a condom further reduces the chances of pregnancy.

WARNING: Do NOT use Vaseline (petrolatum, or petroleum jelly) with condoms as a lubricant. Vaseline weakens the rubber.

For protection against sexually transmitted diseases, use condoms made of latex.

What are the benefits?

Male condoms have a variety of benefits:

• They are 90% effective in preventing pregnancy when they are used without a spermicide foam or jelly.

• They are 97% effective in preventing pregnancy when they are used with a spermicide foam or jelly.

• Latex condoms provide protection against the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Other than polyurethane female condoms, latex male condoms are the only acceptable method for preventing sexual transmission of AIDS during sexual intercourse.

• They can be bought in drugstores and supermarkets without a prescription.

• They are a relatively inexpensive method of birth control.

• They are small, easy to carry, and disposable.

• There are no side effects from using a condom.

What are the disadvantages?

The disadvantages of male condoms are:

• They can leak or break during intercourse, releasing sperm into the vagina and possibly causing pregnancy.

• They may slip off when the penis is withdrawn from the vagina and spill sperm into the vagina, again possibly causing pregnancy.

• Love-making is interrupted to put the condom on. However, the process of using the condom can become a pleasurable part of foreplay for both partners.

• Condoms may reduce sensitivity of the penis, which might decrease some of the pleasure during intercourse.

• If a condom is exposed to heat for a long time (for example, from being carried in a back pocket), it may weaken and leak sperm into the vagina.