Contraception
Contraceptive Methods
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Male Condom
The male condom is a latex sheath that is rolled over the penis to prevent secretions including semen from entering the vagina. A condom should be used in combination with spermicide.
Benefits
Condoms are 97% effective, and they protect against most STIs if used consistently and correctly. Condoms are the only contraception that can prevent STIs.
Disadvantages
Some guys complain about lack of sensitivity. The condom may slip off during sex. Rough handling may cause the condom to break. Some guys (and girls) may be allergic to latex. Tip: To increase sensitivity put some water-soluble lubricant (saliva, KY jelly) inside the tip of the condom before putting it on.
Where to find them
You can pick up a pack of condoms at the drugstore for about 50 cents per condom, or you can grab one in a washroom, supermarket, convenience store, or free at a family planning centre.
Troubleshooting
If a condom breaks or slips off during sex, contact your doctor or a clinic for emergency contraception as soon as possible.
Condoms in Depth
Condoms are your best protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They stop bacteria and viruses that may be present in your partner's genital fluid from infecting your own genitals, anal area, or mouth. They also protect against unwanted pregnancy. For a lot of sexually active people, they're about as good as contraception gets.
Condoms work! When used as directed, they offer better protection against AIDS and other STIs than any other birth control method.
To give yourself added protection, team up a condom with a spermicidal jelly, foam, cream, suppository, or film. These products can stop sperm from moving up the female reproductive tract in case the condom breaks. Just be sure not to use spermicides on their own, as they can make HIV spread easier.
The only situation in which it's safe not to use a condom is in a long-term, monogamous relationship with a partner who's tested negative for STIs and has proven himself worthy of your trust.
Condoms, HPV and Hepatitis B
Condoms offer protection against most STIs, but do not protect against two of the most common: human papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B.
- HPV can be passed along by sex or close skin-to-skin genital contact. Some forms of HPV cause only harmless skin warts, others can lead to genital warts, and still others can cause cervical cancer. A medical test called a PAP smear can test for the early signs of this cancer, which can be treated. If you're a sexually active female, be sure to have your doctor perform this simple test on a regular basis.
- The Hepatitis B virus can be passed along through semen or blood, and more rarely from saliva or vaginal secretions. The virus has to enter your bloodstream to cause disease. Hepatitis B can be detected through a blood test, and often heals spontaneously, but may cause serious liver damage in some people. An effective vaccine now exists to protect against Hepatitis B. If you're sexually active, you might want to talk to a doctor about getting the Hep B vaccine.
Putting on a Condom
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Interactive Demo |
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Male condoms usually come rolled up in a sealed packet, and most are pre-lubricated on the outside (the preferred choice). If the condom is brittle, stiff or sticky, discard it and use another. Begin the procedure when your penis is hard.
- Put a drop or two of lubricant or saliva inside the tip of the condom (optional)
- If you're not circumcised, pull back your foreskin
- Place the rolled-up condom over the tip of your penis, leaving a half-inch space for semen collection
- Pinch the air out of the tip of the condom
- Unroll the condom all the way to the base of the penis
- If you're not using a pre-lubricated condom, lubricate the outside of the condom with a water-based lubricant
When you've finished having sex (vaginal, anal or oral), hold the condom against the base of your penis while you pull out.
Last Modified: September 5, 2006
