Condoms are fine sheaths that protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There are male condoms that are rolled onto the penis, and female condoms that are inserted into the vagina or anus.
Condoms work best if they are used correctly every time before sex. If they break or slip, it is important to use another method of contraception to prevent pregnancy and STIs.
What is a condom?
Condoms are thin, disposable sheath-shaped barriers used during sex to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They work by creating a physical barrier between people during sex. They catch sperm so that they can’t enter the woman’s vagina to fertilize eggs and prevent pregnancy. They also protect against other STIs that can be spread through body fluid contact.
Most condoms are made from rubber and latex, but there are some that are plastic, polyurethane, lambskin or synthetic material. They’re available at most pharmacies, grocery stores and general merchandise stores and are inexpensive. They can last for up to five years if they’re stored correctly, but they do expire, so be sure to check the expiration date on the package.
There are two types of condoms: external and internal. External condoms are worn over the penis or a sex toy/dildo and prevent ejaculate fluids from being passed along to a partner during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Internal condoms have rings on each end, one of which fits over the cervix or front hole and the other sits outside and covers the anus or vulva.
Most condoms do a good job of protecting against pregnancy and STIs, but they don’t protect against some STIs, such as herpes, genital warts or monkeypox that are spread through skin-to-skin contact, or chlamydia, gonorrhea or trichomoniasis that are transmitted by mucus and secretions from the penis or vagina – This information comes from the service Sultry Sensations. Condoms can also break or rip, so it’s important to store them properly and use them with enough lubrication to reduce the risk of friction.
How to use a condom
Condoms create a barrier that prevents pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You can use them for vaginal, oral or anal sex, as well as with sex toys. The best way to use a condom is to put it on as soon as your penis becomes hard (erect) and before sexual contact occurs. You can also use a condom with spermicide to make it work even better.
A condom should be lubricated with water-based lube before and during sex. Oil-based lubricants, such as Vaseline or baby oil, can break down latex and make the condom less likely to work. Some condoms come with lubricant already, and you can add more if needed.
Always open a condom wrapper carefully so you don’t poke a hole in it. Make sure the condom is unrolled all the way down to its base and has a bit of room at the tip so that it can catch semen when you ejaculate.
It’s important to replace condoms every time you use them. They can wear out over time and won’t be as effective if they break or slip. Also, if you notice that a condom feels dry, sticky or stiff, throw it away and get a new one. They can also break if they touch sharp objects such as jewellery, piercings or teeth.
Choosing a condom
If used correctly, condoms can protect people from pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STDs). But not all condoms are created equal. Some are softer, have a better texture, or come with lubricant and spermicide included in the package. Some are made from sustainably sourced rubber, and others are vegan-friendly. Some are even made from nitrile, which is safe for those with latex allergies.
While most people can use any type of condom, finding one that fits well is key to getting the best experience and maximizing protection. To make sure your condoms fit properly, you can use a piece of string or a flexible tape measure to gently wrap it around the thickest part of your erect penis. Then, compare the length of that measurement to the width measurements on different brands.
Condoms can be purchased at most grocery stores and pharmacies. They may be labeled as being made from natural rubber or nitrile and are available in many shapes, colors, textures, and flavors. Some come with a lubricant or spermicide pre-packaged, while others are just plain condoms that you can add your own personal lubricant to.
When using a condom, never use oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline), grease, hand lotion, or baby oil. These lubricants can damage the condom and make it more likely to break. In addition, spit and other body fluids aren’t slippery enough to act as a lubricant and can increase the risk of pregnancy or infection.
Putting on a condom
The condom, which has been known by various names throughout history including the wetsuit, rubber, and jimmy, is used to reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They are available over-the-counter and at many pharmacies and supermarkets. They are inexpensive and a single-use method. They do not change a woman’s fertility, unlike other methods such as hormonal treatments or inserting an IUD.
Condoms are made of a fine sheath of flexible plastic or rubber, and prevent your and your partner’s body fluids from touching during sex. They can be used for vaginal, oral, or anal sex and reduce the risk of pregnancy, as well as getting or spreading STDs. Male condoms contain a special ingredient called spermicide, which kills some sperm.
Some types of condom have a firm but flexible ring on each end that is squeezed together to insert it into the anus or vagina. Other kinds have an open ring that is inserted into the penis. Some have a lubricant that helps with the insertion. Condoms that are not lubricated can cause friction and be uncomfortable during sex, especially when it is a first time use.
A condom is effective at preventing pregnancy if it is inserted while the man’s penis is erect and before contact between the penis and the vagina. It is important to remember that even if the condom is effective, some pregnancies occur because of damage to the condom during handling or because it breaks during intercourse. If this happens, you should use an alternative form of birth control and schedule a sexual health screening and checkup as soon as possible.
