Definition
A condom is a type of birth control (contraceptive). Condoms are worn during intercourse to prevent pregnancy and the spread of some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
Other than a vasectomy, the condom is the only available method of birth control for men.
Alternative Names
Prophylactics; Rubbers; Male condoms; Female condoms
Information
A condom blocks sperm from coming in contact with the inside of the vagina, where it could reach an egg. (If sperm reaches an egg, pregnancy can result.) A condom also prevents disease-causing substances from spreading from one person to another.
Until recently, the condom was used only by men. A female condom is now available.
The male condom is a thin cover that fits over a man's erect penis. Condoms are made of latex rubber, polyurethane, or animal skin. For the best protection, the condom must be put on before the penis comes into contact with or enters the vagina (because pre-ejaculation fluids carry both sperm and disease). The condom must be carefully removed immediately after ejaculation so that no semen leaks out.
The female condom fits inside the vagina. It has two rings to keep the condom in place -- one ring is placed over the woman's cervix and another one is placed over her vulva. This positioning prevents the condom from being pushed up into the vagina, and creates a protective covering over the outside of the vagina, which prevents sperm from contacting the area.
HOW WELL DOES A CONDOM WORK?
Theoretically, if a condom is used consistently and correctly, it should prevent pregnancy 97% of the time. The actual effectiveness among users, however, is only between 80% and 90%. This is due to:
- Occasional rupture of a condom during intercourse
- Semen spilling from a condom during withdrawal
- Waiting too long to put a condom on the penis (penis comes into contact with vagina before condom is on)
- Break in condom due to manufacturing problems (rare)
- Failure to use a condom during each act of intercourse
