A condom is device for preventing
pregnancy and transmission of sexual diseases. Made of latex, polyurethane,
this birth
control device is used during sexual intercourse. A condom is a one of
the safest and easiest method of contraception. It has few side effects and
offers protection from sexually transmitted diseases including HIV, Syphilis
etc.
Condoms are easily available in family planning and sexual health
clinics, chemist shops, supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol/gas
stations. In certain countries you will find vending machines selling
condoms. You can also order then online from different manufacturers and
wholesalers.
Types of Condoms
There are two main types of condom:
- Male condom: It is a sheath worn over the penis to prevent
sperm ejaculating into the vagina. The condom must be put on before the
penis comes into contact with or enters the vagina.
- Female Condom: A female condom fits inside the vagina. It is
also called vaginal sheath. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has
approved just one female condom: the FC2 female condom. Though there are
other varieties sold across the world. The female condom has two rings
which are used to keep the condom in place. One ring is placed over the
female's cervix and the other one is placed over her vulva. This way the
condom creates a covering over the vagina's outside , which prevents
sperm from contacting the area.
Condom Sizes, Shapes and Varieties
Condom manufacturers across the
globe have diversified into making condoms of different colors, shapes, and
thicknesses. The average dimensions are: Length: 190 mm, circumference: 52
mm, thickness: 0.07 mm.
There are various shapes of condoms like as condoms with plain tips,
condoms with reservoir tips, regular shaped condoms with straight sides,
form fit condoms which are indented below the head of the penis, or the
flared condoms which are wider over the head of the penis. There are ribbed
condoms with textured ribs or bumps, which can increase sensation for both
partners. Certain manufacturers add spermicidal lubricant to the product,
however, it is not an effective substitute for separate spermicide use.
There are condoms in a variety of colours. Condom manufacturers are also
producing flavoured condoms to make oral sex more enjoyable.
Condoms Effectiveness and AdvantagesWhy Condoms should be Used?
- If a condom is used properly, it is very effective at preventing
pregancy.
- Using condoms effectively is also helpful in reducing the risk of HIV
infection during sexual intercourse.
- Condoms also provide protection against other sexually transmitted
diseases.
- They don't have any serious medical side-effects as compared to other
birth control methods.
- There is more fun in having sex with condoms with the varieties in
colors, shapes and flavors.
- You don't need to visit a doctor or have a prescription for using
condoms.
- Using condoms make sex less messy.
- The condom frequently prolongs a man's ejaculation
- Condoms also protect women against cervical cancer and the human
papillomavirus (HPV).
Materials Used in Making Condoms
Latex Condoms:
- In the modern times, most condoms are made from latex. The material
has outstanding elastic properties. and its tensile strength exceeds 30
MNm2. Latex condoms are very helpful at blocking transmission of HIV
because the pores in latex condoms are very small to let the virus to
pass through.
Polyurethane Condoms
- Polyurethane condoms are considered better than latex counterparts in
several ways. This type of condom is a better conductor of heat, not as
sensitive to temperature and ultraviolet light , has longer shelf life
and can also be used with oil lubricants. The condom doesn't cause any
allergies or odor.
- These condoms are thinner than latex condoms but are more likely to
slip or break than latex, are more expensive, and may not be as
effective in protecting against STDs