Male Condoms
What it is . . .
A male condom is a thin, skin-tight sheath made of latex, plastic, polyurethane or animal tissue such as sheep skin. It is placed on an erect penis. Condoms come with or without spermicide and with or without lubrication.
How it works . . .
It traps sperm
It stops it from entering the woman's vagina
It protects against HIV and STI's by acting as a barrier to fluid transfer
NOTES:
-Spermicidal condoms do not contain enough spermicide to be effective in killing all sperm. Therefore, we recommend
using a separate spermicide.
-Animal tissue condoms are not as effective as latex in preventing STI infection.
Who shouldn't use them . . .
Men or women who are allergic to latex should try polyurethane condoms, or try pairing a latex condom with an animal skin condom (animal skin on outside for female allergy, on inside for male allergy).
What are the side effects . . .
Latex or spermicidal allergy
Effectiveness Rates . . .
Typical use: 85-90%
Perfect use: 90-95%
Perfect use with separate spermicide: 95-98%
Where to get it . . .
Latex condoms are widely available at pharmacies, supermarkets, convenience stores, etc. The price ranges from $7-$24. They are also available for free at Sexual Health Centre Saskatoon, AIDS Saskatoon, and many other community organizations. Polyurethane and animal skin condoms are more difficult to find.