They have been around for centuries

Condoms were first used in ancient times and were made from the intestines of animals. Ick! Thankfully, things have got a little more advanced since then! More recently, they were constructed of rubber, which is how they got their nickname. These days, however, most condoms are made of latex. They not only help to prevent pregnancy but some types of STDs.

If the couple chooses to use lubricant with condoms, they must be careful to use water based rather than oil based, as oil based lubricants can undermine the integrity of the latex, leading to breakage and leakage. It's also important to store condoms in a dark place and to be aware of their expiration date.

Some people are allergic to latex. Alternate types of condoms that are more useful for them are animal skin condoms and those made from polyurethane. The animal skin that is most prevalently used is lamb.

An important aspect of condom effectiveness is the application, use, and disposal of the condom. The condom should be applied to the erect penis leaving a bit of space at the tip for the ejaculate. Pinch this portion while rolling the condom down the shaft of the penis. Care must be taken that the condom doesn't fall off or break during intercourse. The man should grasp the top edges of the condom when withdrawing from the female to reduce the likelihood of spilling the semen into her vagina.

Since there is a likelihood of breakage or accidental spillage of semen, couples often use them along with spermicide, which kills sperm. It is available as jelly or cream for use with a diaphragm, but it's the spermicidal foam that is commonly used in conjunction with a condom. It comes with a plunger or applicator and is placed inside the vagina before intercourse. This provides a backup method that decreases the chance of pregnancy. A spermacide film is sometimes used. It dissolves after insertion to create a spermicide barrier.

As convenient as this seems, there is a downside to using spermicides either alone or with condoms. The active ingredient in spermicides, nonoxynol 9, also known as N-9, can be highly irritating in some individuals, causing intense itching or burning. If used they must be carefully applied, and they must be re-applied for each separate instance of intercourse.

Condoms and spermicides are often the preferred birth control for some couples because they do not employ hormones, they are easily obtained at a pharmacy, they are somewhat inexpensive, and they require no prescription. There are far fewer side effects with condoms and spermicides than there are in taking the pill. The higher risk of pregnancy is a calculated risk when using this method, yet it may be the only feasible alternative for some couples.

Article by Rachel Goodchild

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