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Male Condoms for Birth Control

Topic Overview

The male condom is a barrier methodClick here to see an illustration. of birth control. The condom is placed over the man's erect penis before intercourse. Condoms are also called "rubbers," "sheaths," or "skins."


Condoms are currently the only male method of birth control besides vasectomy. To more effectively prevent pregnancy, use a condom with a more effective birth control method such as hormonal contraception, an intrauterine device (IUD), a diaphragm with spermicide, or another female barrier method. Any spermicide that you use with a condom or other barrier method is not put inside the condom.

Be sure to follow the directions for using condoms correctly.

Nonprescription method

Condoms do not require a visit to a health professional or a prescription. Condoms are sold in drugstores, family planning clinics, and many other places, including vending machines in some restrooms. There are many different kinds of condoms. Some condoms are lubricated, some are ribbed, and some have a "reservoir tip" for holding the semen. You can also buy condoms of different sizes. Condoms that are coated with spermicide are not recommended, because they may irritate the woman's vagina.

Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy




Effectiveness in preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Male condoms reduce the risk of spreading sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Condoms are often used to reduce the risk of STDs even when the couple is using another method of birth control (such as pills).

"Natural" or sheep intestine condoms are as effective as latex or polyurethane condoms for preventing pregnancy, but they are not effective against STDs because the small openings in the animal tissue allow organisms to pass through.

Advantages of male condoms

  • They are the most effective protection available against STDs.
  • They are used only at the time of sexual intercourse.
  • They are less expensive than hormonal methods of birth control.
  • They may reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
  • They are widely available without a prescription.
  • Because a few women are allergic to their partner's semen, use of condoms keeps semen from touching the woman's vagina.

Disadvantages of male condoms


  • The couple must be comfortable with using a condom and be prepared to use one every time they have sex.
  • Condoms may decrease sexual sensation for the man or the woman.
  • The rate of breakage or leakage is as high as 1 out of 100 for some brands of condoms. Using an additional method of birth control is a good backup measure in case a condom breaks. If a condom does break and you are using no other birth control method, you can use emergency contraception to help prevent pregnancy.

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise


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