Condoms for Men

Although condoms have been in use since ancient times, Casanova was the first to popularize their use. Condoms were at first made of linen or animal intestines, but at the advent of vulcanized rubber in the 1840's condoms took on the name "rubbers" and were mass produced. There are many types of condoms available; most condoms are made of latex rubber, but some are made from polyurethane or even animal tissue (e.g., "natural skin"). They may be lubricated, ribbed, or treated with spermicide, and may be purchased without a prescription. Condoms are convenient and easy to use. They can help both partners avoid giving each other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Male Condoms

Average Failure Rate: 15%

The condom is a thin shield that is worn on the penis. It traps the semen expelled from the penis during intercourse, preventing sperm from entering the vagina. A man must put on a condom while he has an erection but before intercourse. Afterward, he should withdraw immediately to prevent condom leakage. Although condoms can be effective, they sometimes break during intercourse. For this reason it is suggested that condoms be stored in a cool, dry place; oil-based lubricants (such as Vaseline or baby oil) should not be used as they can weaken latex condoms. Even medication for female yeast infection can cause condom failure.

Condom Concerns Condoms, especially the spermicidal variety, increase the risk of urinary tract infections in women. In fact spermicidal condoms have not been shown to be more effective than condoms without spermicide. Some men and women find the latex in condoms irritating due to allergy, and spermicidal condoms can worsen the allergenic properties of the latex. For sensitive individuals, non-spermicidal polyurethane or natural skin condoms may be more acceptable. Natural skin condoms, however, are expensive and do not protect against disease, and polyurethane condoms are more likely to break.

Most men report reduced sensitivity during intercourse, some men find they cannot retain an erection when a condom is used, and condoms may affect the spontaneity of intercourse. When used consistently by married couples, condoms can be very effective, but failure rates are much higher for unmarried couples and teenagers. If a condom is to be effective, the most important rule is to use it every single time. A new one must be worn if intercourse is repeated. More about safer sex.

Featured Links

• At this site:
  • Condoms for Women
  • Instructions for Proper Condom Use
  • Frequently Asked Questions about Condoms
  • About Spermicides
  
  
• The following links are provided as an informational resource or counterpoint and are not necessarily endorsed by the author:
  • Condoms and Latex Allergy: A report from the American Latex Allergy Association
  • Consumer Reports: How Reliable Are Condoms?: From a 1995 Study
  • Consumer Reports: Condoms get better: A 2005 update
  • Penis Size and Condom Failure: Results of a scientific study by Durex
  • User Characteristics Related to Condom Failure: Family Health International
  • Male Contraception: Research into Future Male Methods
  • Male Contraception: More research into Future Male Methods
  • More about Condoms: Christian Contraception

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