Condom (male/female)
What are they and how do they work?
A barrier method made of very thin latex (rubber) or polyurethane (plastic). Works by collecting the man's sperm.
How are they used?
- The "male condom" is put on the erect penis.
- The "female condom" is used to line the vagina and the area just outside.
Both types of condom must be fitted before any close genital contact takes place.
Condoms must be stored away from light, damp, strong heat, or sharp objects. Also, always check the "use by" date on the packet before using. Condoms must not be used in conjunction with oil-based lubricants (e.g. petroleum jelly, body oils, creams or lotions), as they can damage the latex and make the condom more likely to split.
Where can you get them from?
Male condoms are available free from family planning clinics, many sexual health clinics and some GPs. Female condoms available free from some family planning clinics. Condoms can also be purchased from pharmacists, garages, supermarkets, vending machines (often situated in pub and club toilets), or via mail order. Choose condoms that have the British Standards Institute (BSI) Kitemark or the European CE quality mark (these have had thorough quality checks).
What are the advantages of using them?
If used correctly, condoms give some protection to both partners from sexually transmitted infections that are spread through penetrative vaginal, anal or oral sex (e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhoea or hepatitis B).
However, in the case of infections like genital warts, herpes and syphilis, a condom may not be able to cover all the affected parts. Similarly condoms will only give minimal protection against conditions such as scabies, crabs and other infestations which are passed on purely by close skin to skin contact.
How effective are they?
If they are used according to the instructions:
- male condoms are 98% effective
- female condoms are 95% effective.
Contacts
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Other forms of contraception:
Adapted from information produced by the FPA - www.fpa.org.uk
