Male Condoms-Topic Overview
Male Condoms Guide
Male Condoms - Topic Overview
Male Condoms Guide
What are the advantages and disadvantages of male condoms?
Advantages
- They are the most effective protection available against STIs.
- They do not affect future fertility for either a woman or a man.
- They are used only at the time of sexual intercourse.
- They are safe to use while a woman is breast-feeding.
- They are less expensive than hormonal methods of birth control.
- They are widely available without a prescription.
- They may help prevent a man from having an orgasm too quickly (premature ejaculation).
Disadvantages
- Some people are embarrassed to use condoms or feel they may interrupt foreplay or intercourse.
- Both partners must be comfortable with using a condom and be prepared to use one every time they have sex.
- Condoms may decrease sexual sensation.
- Some people are allergic to latex (rubber). These couples should use condoms made of polyurethane (plastic).
- Condoms may break or leak.
- Failure rates for barrier methods are higher than for most other methods of birth control. Using an additional method of birth control is a good backup measure in case a condom breaks. If a condom does break and you are using no other birth control method, you can use emergency contraception to help prevent pregnancy.
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