Condoms, when used correctly and consistently, are safe and highly effective in preventing transmission of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, and unplanned pregnancies. Condoms are safe, inexpensive and widely available.
There are both external (male) condoms and internal (female) condoms which are effective when used correctly. External condoms are most common and are sheaths or coverings that fit over a man’s erect penis before penetration. Internal condoms are also available and are sheaths or linings that fit loosely inside the vagina before penetration.
When using condoms, personal lubricants (also known as lube) make it less likely that the condom will break, slip or fall off. Use of a water- or silicone-based lube is recommended, as other types may cause the condom to break down, such as kitchen oil, butter and hand lotion.
Lubricants can make sex with a condom satisfying and effective, during vaginal and particularly anal sex. Unlike the vagina or penis, the anus often does not provide adequate natural lubrication during sex. Plenty of lubricant should always be used during anal sex. Lubricants may also be helpful for individuals experience vaginal dryness associated with menopause. In general, lubricant use is associated with reduced sexual pain and discomfort, and improved female sexual satisfaction.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of condoms depends on their correct use. The risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection (STIs), including HIV, is greatest when condoms are not used properly with every act of sex. Very few pregnancies or infections occur due to slips or breaks. Condoms significantly reduce the risk of STIs when used consistently and correctly during vaginal, oral and anal sex. They protect against STIs that spread via discharge, such as HIV, gonorrhoea and chlamydia. They also protect against STIs that spread by skin-to-skin contact, such as syphilis, genital herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV) when the lesion occurs in the area covered by the condom. When used correctly with every act of sex, 98% of women whose male partners use male condoms will be protected from unplanned pregnancy; when female condoms are used, 95% of them will be protected against unplanned pregnancy.
Condom Statistics by Gender Usage
- 45.2% of men reported using male condoms during their last sexual encounter. A percent that showed no significant change from 2006–2010 (45.8%) and 2002 (44.5%).
- However, the use of withdrawal as a contraceptive method increased over these three periods, reaching 18.8% in the years 2011–2015.
- Male condoms exhibit an effectiveness rate of 98%. In practical terms, this implies that, in a one-year timeframe of using male condoms as a form of contraception. Approximately 2 out of every 100 individuals may experience a pregnancy.
- When female condoms are used consistently and correctly, they have an effectiveness rate of 95%. In simpler terms, in one year of using female condoms as contraception. Approximately 5 out of every 100 women may experience a pregnancy.
- Roughly 21 out of every 100 women who use female condoms may experience a pregnancy within a year.
- In the past 12 months, 59.9% of women and 56.4% of men aged 15-44 relied solely on condoms without using any other contraceptive method during their most recent sexual encounter.
Types of Condoms
Condoms can be made from different materials like latex, nitrile, and lambskin. There are also fun, novelty condoms that glow in the dark or are coated with a flavoring. If you are irritated by a specific type of condom, it may be best to try a different condom or another form of birth control. While each type of condom has its own pros and cons, it ultimately comes down to what is best for you and your partner.
1. Latex Condoms - Standard latex condoms are the most common type of condom and a reliable choice for preventing pregnancies and STIs. That's because latex is a non-porous material. When you use a latex condom, avoid using oil-based lubes like such as lotion, massage oil, baby oil or Vaseline. Oil-based lube can break down latex, making these condoms less effective. It's best to opt for a water-based or silicone-based lube when you use a latex condom. If you notice any itching, redness, or rash after using one, you may be allergic to latex. Consult with a healthcare professional.
2. Non-Latex Condoms - If you have a latex allergy, you still have plenty of options. This includes condoms made of polyurethane, and polyisoprene. Polyurethane and polyisoprene condoms are made from synthetic materials and protect against both pregnancy and STIs. Synthetic condoms can also function properly with oil-based, water-based and silicone-based lubes.
3. Internal Condoms - Unlike external condoms, internal condoms—sometimes called female condoms—are inserted inside the vagina. Because they are more difficult to insert, internal condoms are only 79% effective in practice. To avoid pregnancy, combine them with another form of birth control, such as birth control pill, IUD (intrauterine device) or the patch. The big benefit of internal condoms is that they provide those with vaginas greater control over their sexual health. Plus, you can insert them up to eight hours before sex, so you don't have to pause for a condom break in the heat of the moment. Just make sure not to use them with external condoms because that increases the risk of breakage for both.
4. Lambskin Condoms - Lambskin condoms are made from the lining of animal intestines. While the material may feel more natural or increase sensitivity during sex, it's also much more porous. The holes in lambskin are large enough that some STIs, like HIV or herpes, can pass right on through. They don't protect against STIs and are much less effective at preventing pregnancy. Lambskin condoms can also be used with all types of lube.
5. Flavored Condoms - Flavored condoms are an easy way to add a bit of novelty to sex play, especially if you or a partner dislike the taste of latex during oral sex. Flavored condoms are essentially the same as latex condoms, except they're coated with flavor. These condoms are also safe for vaginal sex, but if you notice any vaginal irritation, discontinue use and switch to a different type of condom.
6. Glow-In-The-Dark Condoms - When made with latex, these condoms are just as effective as a regular latex condom.
7. Ribbed Condoms - Typically, made with latex, these condoms are textured to enhance pleasure. Often, their sheaths are ribbed on the outside. The placement of these ribs are designed to add stimulation and, depending on their placement, may be enjoyable for either partner. However, if your genitals are quite sensitive, you may find ribbed or other textured condoms agitating. One way you can reduce the friction is with lube.
8. Spermicide Condoms - Some condoms include spermicide, a chemical substance that immobilizes and destroys sperm. On its own, the substance is 79% effective at preventing pregnancy. It the chemical causes irritation or an allergic reaction, discontinue use, rinse affected area with warm water.
9. Thin or Ultra-Thin Condoms - These condoms have slightly less material. Many people prefer them because of the perception that regular condoms reduce sensation. Some people are concerned of breakage because of the thinner material. Latex condoms usually break because of heat, friction, and using oil-based lube. Use water-based or silicone-based lube to reduce the chance of breakage.
10. Lubricated Condoms - These latex condoms have lube built right in. It eliminates the need to have lube on hand or figuring out if your lube is okay to use with a condom. Lubricated condoms also reduce friction from vaginal dryness. This can prevent irritation, and it can prevent the condom from tearing or breaking.
11. Tingling Condoms - These latex condoms have a specially formulated lubricant that provide a "tingling" sensation for one or both partners. Some people say this subtle prickle is incredibly pleasant, while others may find it uncomfortable; still others, barely notice it at all. Plus, most versions of this rubber use minty lube to achieve the desired effect, meaning it may also taste or smell better than a regular latex condom.