Condoms - Protection and Safety During Intimacy

Condoms are thin sheaths worn over the penis during sexual activity to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are typically made of latex, polyurethane, or lambskin.
Category
Contraceptive
Where to get
Available at pharmacies, supermarkets, convenience stores, and online retailers without a prescription.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Condoms FAQ


Image credit: condomjungle.com

What is a condom used for?

A condom is a very fine sheath made of rubber or plastic. It’s designed to prevent your and your partner’s body fluids from mixing during sexual activity. Condoms can be used for vaginal, anal or oral sex. As well as reducing your risk of pregnancy, they can also reduce your risk of getting or spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

What is a collection condom?

A collection condom is used to collect semen for fertility treatments or sperm analysis. These condoms are designed to maximize sperm life. Some condom-like devices are intended for entertainment only, such as glow-in-the dark condoms. These novelty condoms may not provide protection against pregnancy and STIs.

How do condoms work?

Condoms block transmission of HIV and STI by preventing contact between the condom wearer’s penis and a sex partner’s skin, mucosa, and genital secretions. Do I still need to use a condom if I take PrEP or my partner takes PrEP?

Do condoms protect against STIs?

The only way that you can be protected against STIs (sexually transmitted infections ) is by using condoms and dental dams. A diaphragm is inserted inside the vagina to stop sperm from getting in. They do not protect against STIs. The male condom is a fine rubber (latex) or synthetic sheath that is worn on an erect (stiff) penis.

What is who's work on condoms?

WHO’s work on condoms is covered by its overarching mandate to provide technical guidance and support Member States to strengthen programmes related to sexual and reproductive health and rights. This includes both the prevention and control of STIs, including HIV, as well as contraception and family planning services.

Condoms References

If you want to know more about Condoms, consider exploring links below:

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