Male condoms

Overview:

Male condoms are a barrier type of contraception used to protect against sexually transmitted diseases (S.T.D.s) in males. These are also called external condoms. They are safe and effective methods of preventing the transmission of S.T.D.s, including H.I.V. and pregnancies that are not planned. 

These are safe, inexpensive, and readily available in the market. Correct usage can help in having safe sex without transmitting any infections. Male condoms are sheaths or coverings that cover the erect penis before penetration. Penis is the male reproductive organ. 

Function:

Condoms are a type of barrier contraception. They have the following functions: 

• They prevent contact between semen and opposite genital organs. 
• They prevent skin-to-skin contact between the penis and secretions of the vagina or anus. 
• They prevent contact between the secretions from the partners. 

Structure of a condom:

The condom has two parts: a reservoir tip and a base ring connected by a thin latex tube. Reservoir tips collect the semen ejaculated from the penis. Condoms without reservoir tips cause leakage of semen. The base ring is the part of the condom that is rolled over the erect penis. A thin latex tube connects the reservoir tip and the base ring. The reservoir is the top part, and the base ring is the bottom part of the condom. 

Materials used in condoms: 

Condoms are majorly made of rubber latex. The other materials used to manufacture condoms include synthetic materials like polyurethane and natural membranes derived from lamb intestinal cecum. 

Latex condoms can last for five years. Condoms should be used based on their expiration dates as these affect the functionality of the condoms. Spermicide in the condoms further reduces the life span of a condom. 

Condoms are available in different sizes, shapes, types, materials, colors, textures, odors, and flavors. Sometimes, special lubricants or spermicides are also added to the condoms. They are also available in various textures like ribbed and studded on one or both sides. These are meant to provide extra sensation or feel to both partners. 

Wearing a condom:

To wear a condom, the reservoir part is pinched between the two fingers, and the ring is rolled down over the penis. A condom can be worn when the penis is erect. Do not wear a condom when the penis is not erect. Leaving a ¼ inch at the tip and squeezing the air out of the tip will create room for the semen to be collected. The condom is removed by grasping the base ring of the penis and pulling off the condom before the erection is lost. 

Condoms and Lubricants: 

Personal lubricants or lubes decrease the chances of slippage and falling off and increase the protection against any S.T.D.s and unwanted pregnancies. Latex condoms can be used with water-based lubricants like saliva and glycerin but should not come into contact with oil-based lubricants. Oil-based lubricants in latex condoms can disturb the integrity of the condoms. Both water-based and oil-based lubricants can be used with synthetic condoms. Natural membrane condoms can also be used with both water-based and oil-based condoms. 

Drawbacks of Condoms: 

• Condoms are meant to protect sexual partners from the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. However, occasionally, the risk of condom slippage or breakage occurs during the act of intercourse.  
• Condoms with spermicide in them have a shorter shelf-life due to the breakdown of latex. 
• Latex allergy is one of the significant concerns with condoms. Synthetic or natural membrane condoms can be used in individuals with latex allergy.
• Natural condoms are less effective in preventing the transmission of S.T.D.s as they are more porous. 
• Spermicide in condoms can cause irritation and urinary tract infections. 
• They can also decrease the sensation during intercourse. 
• Wearing more than one condom does not give double protection but instead increases the friction between condoms, further causing tears in the condoms. 

Effectiveness of Condoms: 

When used correctly, condoms are very effective in reducing the chances of unwanted pregnancies and the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted infections, including H.I.V. Condoms should be used regularly during every sexual activity to reduce the transmission of diseases. They should be used correctly during every vaginal, oral, and anal sex. 

Condoms act by preventing the penis from coming in contact with secretion from the partner. They also prevent the genital organs from contacting the partner's tissues and viruses. They also prevent the sperm in the semen from reaching the egg and avoid fertilization and unwanted pregnancies.  

They mainly protect against S.T.D.s that are transmitted via discharge, like H.I.V., gonorrhea, and chlamydia. They also protect from S.T.D.s transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, like herpes, syphilis, and human papillomavirus infections. 

Condoms are effective in protecting from H.I.V. transmission by 71-80%. Male Condoms have an efficacy of preventing unplanned pregnancies by 98%. 

Condom Facts: 

• Do not reuse a condom.
• Do not store condoms in wallets, as heat and friction can damage them. 
• Always, condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place.
• Do not use condoms that have tears or defects. 
• Do not use Vaseline or mineral oil as a lubricant while using condoms. 
• A condom should be used both correctly and consistently to prevent infections, as single intercourse with an infected partner can spread disease to an uninfected one. 

Conclusion: 

Male condoms are safe, effective, and widely available tools for preventing sexually transmitted diseases (S.T.D.s) and unwanted pregnancies. They act as barriers between sexual partners, avoid the exchange of bodily fluids, and reduce the risk of transmission. Despite occasional risks such as slippage or breakage, proper and consistent usage is crucial for optimal effectiveness and for protecting sexual health.