condom

Advantages of the condom

The condom is still the first choice in contraception methods. It is the only method in which contraception and infection protection are given at the same time. Protection against infection by condoms is guaranteed for gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, HPV viruses, HI viruses (AIDS) and genital herpes.
The condom is also suitable if the woman is not allowed to use hormonal contraception for medical reasons (see hormonal contraceptives). These include, for example, women with a history of severe migraines or thrombosis, heavy smokers and women with high blood pressure.

Disadvantages of the condom

Men especially criticize reduced stimulation and lower sensation. Women, on the other hand, can experience burning sensation and vaginal dryness. For both partners, the use of a condom often represents an unromantic break in coitus.
90% of allergies are caused by the spermicide nonoxinol-9, which at the same time also increases the risk of some sexual infections. For this, however, as for the latex allergy, substitute preparations are available that do not contain this substance.

The spermatic duct valve is a new invention for male contraception.
For more information, read our article:
The spermatic duct valve - an evolution in contraception?

safety

The security in the contraception is after Pearl index rated 2 to 12. This means that 2-12 out of 100 women per year still use this method of contraception pregnant become.

In contrast to hormone preparations such as the "pill", But the relatively high Pearl Index is mainly caused by application errors:

• By touching the limb beforehand Sperm brought to the outside of the condom.

• Incomplete unrolling of the condom or an incorrectly selected size can cause the condom to slip or be lost completely.

• If the sperm reservoir at the tip of the condom is not compressed when you slip it on, air can collect here and the condom burst.

• Long Fingernails as well as genital piercings can damage the condom and make it leak.

• The use of oily gels, antifungal agents, and some spermicide suppositories can damage the surface of the condom.

• Pay attention to the expiry date, especially with condoms from a machine.

• Incorrect storage where the condom is exposed to extreme temperatures, UV radiation and mechanical friction (wallet / pocket) can severely damage the condom.

The quality of the condom can be determined by the consumer DLF seal of approval (German Latex Research and Development Association).

Shapes, designs and materials

As The first condom was produced in 1855 it still existed vulcanized rubber. Condoms have been out since 1930 latex manufactured, which is clearly superior in terms of stretchability. In the case of latex condoms, however, it must be noted that only agents based on water or silicone oil may be used, otherwise the surface of the condom is porous and safety is impaired. Alternative materials such as Polyethylene, polyisoprene and polyurethane available, which are, however, significantly more expensive.
There are a wide variety of designs in terms of color, size and shape.
When choosing the right condom size, the size of the limb is more important than its length.
In the forms, raised surfaces should have a stimulating effect.
A wide variety of flavors and particularly stable condoms are now available in stores.
There is also a condom for women - the so-called Femidom. It is made of polyurethane and is used in the before intercourse Scabbard placed. Just like the condom, it protects against sexual infections and has a Pearl Index of 1 to 14.