How to Use a CondomMedical Author:
Omnia M Samra, MD
Coauthor:
Sandra Wendel
Medical Editor:
Suzanne R Trupin, MD
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
Lee P Shulman, MD
How to Use a Condom OverviewAmong the many barrier methods of birth control, the condom for men is used most often. Condoms are inexpensive and available in many convenient locations, without a doctor’s prescription. In addition to preventing pregnancy, if used properly, a condom may also protect users from infecting a sex partner with a sexually transmitted disease. Although no form of birth control is 100% effective, the condom can be quite effective if it is put on correctly. The Male Condom The Male CondomA condom is a thin sheath placed over an erect penis. A condom worn by a man prevents pregnancy by acting as a barrier to the passage of semen into the vagina. A condom can be worn only once. Condoms are one of the most popular and affordable forms of birth control. You can buy condoms at most drugstores and grocery stores, and dispensers can often be found in public restrooms. Condoms are also called rubbers. Some organizations distribute free condoms. Condoms made from latex are the best at preventing pregnancy. They also protect against sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS and herpes. |
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How to Use a Condom
HIV/AIDS Overview
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection has now spread to every country in the world. Statistics show that approximately 40 million people are currently living with HIV infection, and an estimated 25 million have died from this disease. The scourge of HIV has been particularly devastating in sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa, but infection rates in other countries remain high. In the United States, approximately 1 million people are currently infected. Here are a few key points about the disease:
- Globally, 85% of HIV transmission is through heterosexual intercourse.
- In the United States, approximately one-third of new diagnoses appear to be related to heterosexual transmission. Male-to-male sexual contact still accounts for more than half of new diagnoses in the U.S. Intravenous drug use contributes to the remaining cases. Because the diagnosis may occur years after infection, it is likely that a higher proport...
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