 Web Box: Male Condoms at a Glance
A good method for many men and couples
- A rubber sheath that covers the erect penis during sex.
- Condoms—male and female—are the only contraceptives that also help to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
- Almost all men can use latex male condoms, even men with large penises. Only those who have severe allergic reactions to latex cannot use them. They should use plastic (polyurethane) condoms if available.
- Use whenever penis will have any contact with vagina or anus.
Effectiveness depends on consistent and correct use
- When used correctly every time, provides very good protection against HIV infection, other STIs, and pregnancy. Not all couples use condoms consistently, however, and thus typical effectiveness against pregnancy is only moderate.
Can be used alone or with another method
- A woman can use another family planning method (except the female condom) along with male condoms for extra protection from pregnancy.
- Also, condoms can be used as backup for another method of family planning (for example, if a woman missed pills or is late for an injection).
Easy to get, easy to use
- Sold in many shops and available free at many health clinics.
- Use becomes easy with a little experience.
- Most couples find that they still enjoy sex with condoms.
Partners usually need to discuss condom use
The 5 Basic Steps of Using a Male Condom
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Use a new condom for each sex act.
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Before any contact, place condom on tip of erect penis with rolled side out.
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Unroll condom all the way to base of penis.
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After ejaculation, hold rim of condom in place, and withdraw penis while it is still hard.
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Use only once. Throw away used condom safely.
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Female Condoms at a Glance
A good method for many women and couples
- A loose sheath that is inserted into the vagina before any sexual contact. Currently available female condoms are made of plastic (polyurethane) but soon will also be available in latex.
- Condoms—male and female—are the only contraceptives that also help to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
- No medical conditions limit use. No allergic reactions to plastic female condoms.
Effectiveness depends on consistent and correct use
- When used correctly every time, help to protect against HIV infection, other STIs, and pregnancy. Not all couples use condoms consistently, however, and typical effectiveness against pregnancy is less than with male condoms.
Can be used alone or with another method
- A woman can use another family planning method (except the male condom) along with the female condom for extra protections from pregnancy.
- Also can be used as backup for another method of family planning (for example, if a woman missed pills or is late for injection).
Inserted by the woman but usually needs partner’s cooperation
The 5 Basic Steps of Using a Female Condom
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Open package carefully.
Make sure the condom is well-lubricated inside.
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Choose a comfortable position—squat, raise one leg, sit, or lie down.
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Squeeze the inner ring, at the closed end
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Gently insert the inner ring into the vagina.
Place the index finger inside condom and push the inner ring up as far as it will go.
Make sure the outer ring is outside the vagina and the condom is not twisted.
Be sure that the penis enters inside the condom and stays inside it during intercourse.
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To remove, twist outer ring and pull gently.
Reuse is not recommended.
Throw away condom safely.
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See Companion INFO Report: “Women and HIV: Questions Answered”