Barrier Methods: Condoms

Male Condoms

Male Condom

Description

• A latex or synthetic sheath that's placed over the erect penis before intercourse;
• Prevents pregnancy by collecting spermatozoa in the tip of the condom, preventing them from entering the vagina.

Advantages

• Many people favor the male condom because it puts the responsibility of birth control on the male;
• No health care visit is needed;
• Available over-the-counter in pharmacies and grocery stores;
• Easy to carry;
• Prevents the spread of STD.

Disadvantages

• A condom must be applied before any vulvar penile contact takes place because preejaculation fluid may contain sperm;
• It may cause an allergic reaction if the product contains latex and the male individual or his partner is allergic;
• It may break during use if it is used incorrectly or is of poor quality;
• It can't be reused;
• Sexual pleasure may be affected.

Implications

• Remind the male individual and his partner that the condom must be positioned so that it is loose enough at the penis tip to collect ejaculatory but not so loose that it comes off the penis;
• Reinforce that the penis must be withdrawn before it becomes flaccid after ejeculation, otherwise sperm may escape from the condom into the vagina.