Description of Condoms:
Condoms are a form of barrier protection that prevent the transmission of fluids between partners during penetration. Most condoms are made of latex, there are also non-latex options for people with latex allergies. Non-latex condoms are made of polyurethane, or natural membrane. Natural membrane condoms do not protect against many STDs, including HIV. Latex and polyurethane condoms do provide this protection. All condoms provide protection from contraception.How Condoms Work:
Condoms are not reusable and a new condom must be used every time for protection during penetrative sex. There are several steps to putting on a condom properly . It is most important to squeeze the air out of the tip and leave room for the semen to collect. It is also important to hold onto the base of the condom when pulling out to make sure it doesn’t slip off inside your partner.Failure Rates for Condoms:
With typical use, approximately 14 out of 100 women will become pregnant, but that number drops to 3 out of 100 women becoming pregnant with perfect use. Using a second form of birth control such as a diaphragm , the Today contraceptive sponge , or the birth control pill , will increase the effectiveness of condoms for preventing contraception.Cost of Condoms:
Condom costs range from less than 50 cents per condom to well over $2 per condom, depending on the brand and material.Where to get Condoms:
Some public health clinics, and Planned Parenthood clinics have condoms that they give away for free. Condoms can be purchased at pharmacies, sex toy stores, as well as online retailers who specialize in condoms.Side Effects of Condoms:
The only side effects from condom use would be for people who have latex allergies. If you have a latex allergy you can use the polyurethane condom.
Contraception Information on About.com:
The following information is compiled from a variety of sources, including the CDC, information from drug manufacturers, Planned Parenthood, and Family Health International.
We strive to keep this information up to date, but new studies and information about side effects and effectiveness may not be reflected immediately in this information. This should be used as a guide only, and a health care professional should be consulted when considering a new or changed contraceptive method.
