| The Condom |
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Condoms are sheaths of thin latex or plastic worn on the penis during intercourse. And they are available dry or lubricated. Sometimes they are called rubbers, safes, or jimmies. They reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infection. They are also effective over-the-counter, barrier methods of reversible birth control. Condoms collect semen before, during, and after a man ejaculates ("comes"). This can keep sperm from entering the vagina. Condom EffectivenessOf 100 women whose partners use condoms, about 15 will become pregnant during the first year of typical use.* Only two women will become pregnant with perfect use.** More protection against pregnancy is possible if condoms are used with a spermicide foam, cream, jelly, suppository, or film.
*Typical use refers to failure rates when use is not consistent or always correct. Using the spermicide nonoxynol-9 many times a day, by people at risk for HIV, or for anal sex, may irritate tissue and increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. They also protect both partners during vaginal and anal sex from sexually transmitted infection. Latex condoms offer very good protection against HIV.
And condoms reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, chancroid, trichomoniasis, HPV, herpes, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Condoms can also protect against vaginitis caused by trichomoniasis or changes in the pH balance of the vagina that can be triggered by semen. Hormonal, intrauterine, and surgical methods of birth control offer greater protection against pregnancy than condoms, but no protection against sexually transmitted infections. Many people use latex condoms along with another method for the best protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. How to Use CondomsHandle condoms gently. Store them in a cool, dry place. Long exposure to air, heat, and light makes them more breakable. Do not stash them continually in a back pocket, wallet, or glove compartment.Lubricate the inside and outside of the condom. (Many condoms are pre-lubricated.) Lubrication helps prevent rips and tears, and it increases sensitivity. Use water-based lubricants, such as K-Y jelly or AstroGlide, or silicone-based lubricants, such as Eros, with latex condoms. Oil-based lubricants like petroleum jelly, cold cream, butter, or mineral and vegetable oils damage latex.
Putting On a CondomDetailed instructions for correct use are included in the packaging for the condom. Be sure to read and understand them before you use it. For pleasure, ease, and effectiveness, both partners should know how to put on and use a condom. To learn without feeling pressured or embarrassed, practice on your penis or a penis-shaped object like a ketchup bottle, banana, cucumber, or squash. Remember ? Practice Makes Perfect.AdvantagesCondoms
Sex Play, Pleasure, and the Condom. Condom DisadvantagesSome men and women feel that the condom dulls sensation. Others become frustrated and lose some of their sexual excitement when they stop to put on a condom. Some men are self-conscious about using condoms. They feel pressured about having to maintain an erection to keep the condom on. Others feel pressured to ejaculate. Many overcome these pressures and learn to enjoy using condoms by using them during sex play before intercourse.Condom Side EffectsCondoms have no side effects except for people who are allergic to latex. One to two percent of women and men have such allergies. They may use plastic male or female condoms instead.How to Get Condoms and What They CostCondoms are available in drugstores, family planning clinics, some supermarkets, and from vending machines. They each cost about $0.50, or less. Female condoms cost about $2.50. Some family planning centers give them away or charge very little. The cost in clinics or when authorized by a private doctor is covered by Medicaid in some states.All condoms are tested for defects. But, like rubber bands, condoms deteriorate with age. If properly stored, they should stay good until the expiration date printed on the wrapper of each condom. Condoms may be transparent or opaque, tinted, nipple-ended, rippled, studded, contoured, dry, powdered, or lubricated ? with spermicide or without. Read labels on "novelty" condoms to be sure they protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Usually, size is not marked on the package. But condoms come in different lengths, widths, and thickness. Try different brands and styles to find out which fits best. Don't be embarrassed by the thought of going into a store and asking for condoms. Be proud. Buying condoms says that you are responsible and that you accept your sexuality as a normal part of living. Don't Let Embarrassment Become a Health Risk Nearly as many women as men buy and carry condoms. And many people use them ? every time they have sexual intercourse. If you are embarrassed to talk with your partner about using condoms, practice before you are in a sexual situation. Then, choose the right time to talk ? don't wait until the heat of passion takes over. It may overwhelm your good intentions.
Don't be shy ? be direct. Be honest about your feelings and needs. It can help create a relaxed mood to make sex more enjoyable. Talking is easier if you are in a respectful relationship that makes you feel happy and good about yourself and your partner. In any case, don't let embarrassment become a health risk. The following script may give you some ideas.             |
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