A condom is a sheath-shaped barrier device used during sexual intercourse to reduce the probability of pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Condoms may be combined with other forms of contraception (such as spermicide) for greater protection.
Type
Condoms have two main categories, female and male. Male condoms have a tight ring to form a seal around the penis. Their use decreases the risk of unwanted pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, and sexually transmitted diseases to 10-20%. Male condoms are also utilized in treating males’ premature ejaculation and improving erectile function in elderly or weak men. The female condom is placed inside her vagina. If used properly, it is highly recommended as a suitable and effective way of contraception and sexually transmitted diseases. The female condom (FEMIDOMS) is taller than the male one and has two rings. They are more expensive than male condoms and harder to use. Female condoms are 75% efficient and are appropriate for women who cannot persuade their sexual partner to wear a male condom. Because of the high risk of condom rupture and discharge, these two types of condoms should not be used at the same time. The use of latex or polyurethane condoms prevents the transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and C.
How to use a male condom
The use of male condoms should be started before the intercourse because the male discharge before full ejaculation may contain viruses such as HIV and cause the spread of the disease. If there is no risk of diseases, contact with the discharge should be avoided to prevent the possible pregnancy, as that may consist of sperms.
The male condom is rolled onto an erect penis before intercourse. Some space must be left in the tip of the condom so that semen has a place to collect. Immediately after ejaculation, while the penis is erected, intercourse should be stopped and the male condom is removed. To prevent slippage of condom and leakage of semen, its edge should be taken while removing. Each male condom should be used only once and removed after use. Make sure that it is not pierced with nails or torn with other objects. Before using a condom, it is necessary to check its expiration date and prohibit using sticky and breakable ones. It should be kept away from heat, light and moisture as this would heighten the risk of tearing. If male condom tears during intercourse, intercourse should be stopped immediately and a new one should be replaced. In these cases, it may also be crucial to use other methods of contraception. Male condoms do not need to be impregnated with oily materials (such as Vaseline) because they may damage it and destroy the protective property of the condom. Water-based lubricants, available in pharmacies, could be utilized for condom slippage.
Proper condom Selection
Condoms are a hygienic tool and choosing the right condom is directly linked to the short-term and long-term sexual health of sexual partners. According to FDA, the following should be considered in purchasing condom:
Other factors may help identify the proper condom brand:
Having international standards such as the European Union standard (CE) can help a lot in this manner. Although it is not necessary to have the CE standard for its sale in Iran, the CE certificate is demonstrative of the condom brand’s approval with an accuracy of 99.6 percent provided by a reputable European authority.
