Condoms are a popular barrier method of conception. Condoms made of latex, polyisoprene, or polyurethane effectively prevent pregnancy and the transmission of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Most commercial brands of condoms are very safe and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, people should look out for novelty condoms and natural condoms, which may not offer the same levels of protection.
In this article, we look at which condoms are safest and provide tips for using condoms to make sure they are effective.
How safe are condoms for pregnancy and STIs?
Male condoms are considered a safe and overall effective form of birth control. According to Planned Parenthood, condoms are 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. If used incorrectly, the effectiveness rate drops to about 85 percent.
By contrast, female condoms are 95 percent effective when used correctly. When people do not use them correctly, this figure drops to 79 percent.
Both male and female condoms also provide protection against STIs that are transmitted through bodily fluids, including semen, vaginal fluid, and blood. Condoms act as a barrier for all of these fluids and can protect against infections such as:
- gonorrhea
- chlamydia
- HIV
- syphilis
Condoms do not protect as effectively against some other STIs, such as herpes and genital warts. These infections re transmitted through skin-to-skin contact affecting the labia, scrotum, and inner thighs, and condoms only cover the shaft of the penis or the inside of the vagina or anus.
Condoms — as is the case with all birth control — are only effective when used correctly.
Always check the condom’s expiration date and inspect the packaging to make sure there are no holes or tears. Store them away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
When using a condom, a person should follow these basic safety steps:
- Always check the packaging for the date and tears.
- Open the package carefully and avoid using sharp instruments, including teeth.
- Put the condom on after the penis becomes erect, but before it comes in contact with the vagina or anus.
- Pinch the tip before unrolling the condom over the penis.
- Use water-based lubrication on the outside of the condom to prevent tears or the condom slipping off.
- Grip the base of the condom after ejaculation and remove from vagina or anus before the penis becomes flaccid.
- Wrap the condom in a tissue and throw it out after use.
- Always use a new condom for each sexual encounter.
For female condoms, people should follow these additional steps:
- Guide the penis into the opening of the condom.
- Pinch the opening together when removing the condom from the vagina.
Both males and females condoms are available. Male condoms are typically more affordable and have more varieties. Male condoms can vary in shape, size, flavor, and color.
Both male and female condoms are highly effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs when used correctly.
Both male and female condoms have some advantages and disadvantages that people should consider when deciding on birth control.
Advantages of condoms include the following:
- less costly than hormonal methods and may be available free at certain health clinics
- non-hormonal way of working
- available in places that do not have a pharmacy
- protect against STIs where most other forms of birth control do not
There are also certain disadvantages of condoms compared with other methods of contraception, such as the following:
- there is a chance a condom will break
- improper usage makes them less safe
- oil-based lubricants can break down latex condoms
Takeaway
Condoms are an overall reliable and safe choice for people to use for protected sex. Unlike some other forms of birth control, most condoms offer additional protection from STIs.
Condoms created for use in the U.S. must pass safety standards, so much of choosing the right condom comes down to personal preferences.
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