FAMILY PLANNING RESOURCES
FAMILY PLANNING RESOURCES
FAMILY PLANNING RESOURCES

The Male Condom

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An Old Classic

The male condom is a thin rubber or latex sheath that is placed over the erect penis before having sex. It is the most popular forms of contraception.

How It Works

The condom covers the penis and prevents fluids (ejaculation/discharge) from coming in contact with each other. The “nipple” part of the condom is a reservoir which collects the semen after ejaculation.

When To Use

A condom should be used with every sex act as condoms are the only contraceptive method that can protect you from Sexually Transmitted Infections including HIV/AIDS.

Effectiveness

The Male Condom is 88 percent effective. This means that 88 of every 100 women, whose partners use male condoms, over the first year, will not become pregnant.

Benefits

  • Affordable
  • Easy to use
  • A variety of brands, sizes, colours, textures and flavours. There are also non-latex options for persons who have allergic reaction to latex.
  • Hormone-free
  • The only method (+ female condoms) to protect against both unplanned pregnancies and STIs

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use two condoms at the same time?

    No. You should NEVER use two condoms at the same time, whether two male condoms or a male and a female condom. The condoms can rub together and the friction can cause them to burst.

  • What if I am allergic to latex?

    There are non-latex options available. Ask your pharmacist.

  • What do I do if the condom bursts?

    If the condom bursts and no other contraceptive method was being used, there is a chance that pregnancy could occur. You may need to consider taking an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP). There would also be a possibility of a STI, you may want to get tested.

  • What if the condom keeps slipping off or it’s too tight?

    It probably means that you are not using the right size condom. Condoms come in a variety of sizes. Try different ones until you find one that neither slips off nor is too tight.

  • Can I use lubricants with a condom?

    Yes, you can. However, ensure that they are water-based. Other products like baby oil and Vaseline can affect the latex.