Male condom
The male condom is a sheath placed over the erect penis before penetration, preventing pregnancy by blocking the passage of sperm. It is a barrier method of contraception.
A condom can be used only once.
Although some condoms have spermicide added (the spermicide is usually nonoxynol-9 in the United States) to kill sperm, spermicide has not been scientifically shown to provide additional contraceptive protection over a condom alone.
Because they act as a mechanical barrier, condoms prevent direct vaginal contact with semen, infectious genital secretions, and genital sores and discharges.
Most condoms are made from latex rubber, while a small percentage are made from lamb intestines (sometimes called “lambskin” condoms). Condoms made from polyurethane have been marketed in the United States since 1994.
Except for abstinence, latex condoms are the most effective method for reducing the risk of infection from the viruses that cause AIDS, other HIV-related illnesses, and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Some condoms are prelubricated. These lubricants do not provide more birth control or STD protection. Non-oil-based lubricants, such as water or K-Y jelly, can be used with latex or lambskin condoms, but oil-based lubricants, such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline), lotions, or massage or baby oil, should not be used because they can weaken the material.
Read Also:
- Male external genitalia
The external genital structures of the male, comprising the penis, the male urethra, and the scrotum.
- Male genitalia
Male external genitalia; and Male internal genitalia.
- Male gonad
A testis, one of a pair of organs located behind the penis in a pouch of skin called the scrotum. The testes produce and store sperm and are also the body’s main source of male hormones. These hormones control the development of the reproductive organs and other male characteristics, such as body and facial hair, […]
- Male internal genitalia
The internal genital structures of the male that are concerned with reproduction, including the testis, epididymis, ductus deferens, seminal vesicle, ejaculatory duct, bulbourethral gland, and prostate.
- Male organs of reproduction
The male external genitalia — the penis, the male urethra, and the scrotum; and The male internal genitalia — the testis, epididymis, ductus deferens, seminal vesicle, ejaculatory duct, bulbourethral gland, and the prostate. In the male, the external genitalia are more evident and better known than in the female. The converse may be true with […]