Condoms are the most widely known and the most commonly used type of contraception around the globe. Condoms are thin stretchable pouches worn on the penis before having sexual intercourse. One of the barrier methods of contraception, condoms can be made of latex, plastic, or even lambskin, and they help avoid pregnancy.
This birth control method also prevents the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) since it prevents vaginal fluids and the semen from coming in contact and limit skin-to-skin contact as well. However, lambskin condoms are not effective for preventing STDs as they have tiny openings, just like human skin, so it is advisable to use only latex or plastic condoms.
How effective are condoms?
If used correctly, condoms are 98% effective for preventing pregnancy, but errors of usage can cut down the efficiency to 85%, making it a not-so-successful contraceptive method. Better the usage standards, better is the output and reduced are the risks of unwanted pregnancy. However, it has been reported that despite correct usage, condoms aren’t always full-proof, so there is always an element of risk. IUDs and implants have proven records of better efficiency as compared to condoms, and the effectiveness of this birth control method can be increased significantly if its usage is done along with other forms like pills or IUD.
How can condoms be made effective?
Increasing the efficiency depends upon how the contraceptive is used, and it is advisable to wear the condom at the very beginning and avoid skin to skin contact. It should be worn throughout, and ensuring that the condom is rolled over the right way before there is any sexual contact is also very important. The usage of condoms coupled with other contraceptive measures is also common to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Also, an important thing to keep in mind is that doubling up does not make it any safer as these birth control methods are designed for sole usage.
How can a condom be used?
The condom should be rolled over an erect penis before making any physical contact. It is advisable to keep the condom on all the time to reduce the risk of STDs as well. Although pre-ejaculation has no potential to lead to pregnancy, it has traces of STD, so keeping the condom on is safe. Condoms have a very good shelf life, but it is always advisable to check the date of manufacturing and expiry. They are very thin, so it is advisable not to open the cover with the teeth or scissors. Also, it is important to ensure that they are properly set to be rolled on to the penis without any hassle. If a condom is rolled inside out, it is advisable to throw it away and use a new one. Additionally, it should be pinched at the tip after being rolled in to make some space for the sperm to get collected.
