The use of condoms is probably one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent both unwanted pregnancy and STIs (sexually transmitted infections). What makes condoms popular, compared to other contraceptives like the birth control pill, are their accessibility, inexpensiveness and few side-effects.
Condoms reduce risks
Many people are unaware that they have an STI because the symptoms of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital warts, scabies and herpes can vary from person to person. Symptoms can resemble the symptoms of many other illnesses and therefore one cannot diagnose an STI based on an external diagnosis alone. By using a condom, you will protect yourself against STIs.
On the other hand, you may be the one who is HIV positive or have another STI. It is therefore your duty to protect your partner.
Effectiveness
The most reliable way of avoiding transmission of STIs is to abstain from sexual activity totally or to be in a long-term relationship with only one uninfected partner.
Condom effectiveness for STI and HIV prevention has been demonstrated by research studies. Laboratory studies have shown that latex condoms provide an effective barrier against even the smallest STI pathogens.
However, condoms can only protect you if you use effective condoms in an effective way.
Male condom
A male condom is shaped as a sheath that fits over the erect penis. It is made of either latex or polyurethane. Latex condoms are preferable as they are slightly more reliable and readily available in most countries.
Latex condoms can only be used with water-based lubricants, not oil-based lubricants such as Vaseline or cold cream that will break down the latex. A small number of people have an allergic reaction to latex and they can use polyurethane condoms instead.
Polyurethane condoms are made of a type of plastic. They are thinner than latex condoms and so they increase sensitivity and are more agreeable in feel and appearance to some users. They are more expensive than latex condoms and slightly less flexible, so more lubrication may be needed. However both oil and water based lubricants can be used with them.
Some condoms have no lubrication, some are lubricated with a silicone substance, and some have a water-based lubricant. The lubrication on condoms aims to make the condom easier to put on and more comfortable to use. It can also help prevent condom breakage. With both types of condom, the likelihood of breakages is very small if used correctly.
Female condom
The female condom is made of soft polyurethane and actually offers more protection against pregnancy and infection because it covers a bigger area. The female condom fits inside the vagina like the diaphragm and also covers the vulva. The female condom is a valuable option for women who want to prevent sexually transmitted infection or unintended pregnancy. It also provides the alternative if the partner is unwilling to use a male condom due to personal, cultural, religious or other reasons.
Using a female condom does not depend on a male erection and can thus be placed inside the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. As it can be inserted up to 8 hours before having intercourse, the interruption of sexual spontaneity can so be avoided.
Owing to the nature of the material which is used for making female condoms (polyurethane or nit rile) both a water-based and oil-based lubricant can be used. The characteristics of the material also make it strong, durable and usable for people who are allergic to latex.
Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours a day if you want to know more about the advantages of condoms.