EXTERNAL (MALE) CONDOM

Barrier Method

A condom is a thin film sheath made of latex or polyurethane that is placed over a man’s erect penis before having sex.

Male Condom - Barrier Method

EXTERNAL (MALE) CONDOM
WHEN and HOW?

A new external (male) condom must be used each time you have sex. The efficacy with typical use is 87%.

How to use a condom?

Using a condom is easy, just unravel the condom onto an erect penis right before sex and there you go.

Once it’s all over and the condom has done its job, pull it out before the penis softens. It should be held against the base of the penis as soon as ejaculation has occurred to ensure it does not slip off and to prevent any sperm from escaping as the penis is withdrawn. Use it only once and then throw it away.

It’s important to check what kind of lube is suitable for use with each condom’s material as some can have adverse effects on the material. For example, oil-based lube and latex aren’t friends, and putting them together can cause the condom to break or slip off, just an FYI.

Male Condom - Barrier Method

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External (male) Condom PROS:

  • It can be used on demand
  • It can be easily carried with you
  • It isn’t affected by other medications
  • It can be used when breastfeeding
  • Hormone free
  • It’s the best protection against HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  • Low cost
  • Easy to use

External (male) Condom CONS:

  • It interrupts sex
  • It can tear or come off during sex if not used properly
  • Some people are allergic to latex condoms
  • It may lead to irritation or allergic reactions (if you are allergic to latex, you can try condoms made of polyurethane)

MALE CONDOM

Barrier Method

A condom is a thin film sheath that is placed over a man’s erect penis before having sex.

REGIMEN

EVERY
TIME

BENEFITS

STI protection

Low cost

Easy to use

 

MR. POPULAR

One of the most popular forms of contraception, condoms are a simple and cheap way to protect yourself against unplanned pregnancies and STIs. They work by catching the sperm as it is released and stopping it from entering the vagina at all. The tip has a reservoir which collects the man’s semen and prevents it from entering the vagina when he ejaculates. Along with female condoms they are the only form of contraception to protect you against STIs as well as pregnancy. The most important thing is that you use a condom every time you have sex.

Condoms come in all shapes, sizes, and for the sensitive, materials, so even with allergies or sensitive skin, there’s a condom to suit you comfortably.

Male Condom - Barrier Method

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

SUPPORTED BY

A coalition of international partners with an interest in sexual and reproductive health