• It collects the male's semen, preventing pregnancy
• It collects fluid and semen which may contain sexually transmissible infections

How Effective Are They?

When used well, they are very effective. Condoms work between 95% and 97% of the time in preventing pregnancy and infections.

What are the Advantages?

• Condoms are cheap and widely available from pharmacies, supermarkets, petrol stations, family planning clinics, etc
• No doctor's appointment or prescription is required
• Only used when required
• Decreases the risk of contracting STIs

What are the Disadvantages/Side-effects?

• Condoms are not suitable for anyone who is unable to get a full erection. They may break or slip off and some people feel that they reduce sexual pleasure.
• A very small fraction of the population is allergic to either the latex or the lubricant used in condoms. When this is the case, try using a female condom or a polyurethane condom. Non latex, polyurethane condoms have the advantage of being stronger and thinner than latex condoms. They are also safe to use with oil based lubricants, and warm to body temperature, conducting heat well.
• If the condom breaks or slips off during sex, it is important to contact your doctor or Family Planning Clinic within 120 hours as there are forms of emergency contraception that you can take to prevent pregnancy.

How to use a Condom

• Always use a lubricated condom
• If additional lubrication is needed, use a water based one only such as KY Jelly, Lubafax or Muco (oil based lubricants such as Vaseline can weaken the latex)
• Check the use-by date. Never use a condom with an expired date of use
• Do not unroll the condom before putting it on the erect penis as you may damage the condom
• Before putting the condom on the penis, hold the teat of the condom between the finger and thumb to expel any excess air
• Unroll the condom onto the penis before intercourse
• After ejaculation, hold the base of the condom while withdrawing the penis to prevent leakage of semen
• Make sure there is no genital contact after the condom is removed
• Dispose of the condom properly. Do not throw it down the toilet or into the street!

Page maintained by:FPV Webmaster
Last updated:22/07/2005
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