Types of condoms
Condoms are a form of barrier contraception – basically their job is to stop sperm from entering the vagina, mouth or anus and lessen our risk of getting STIs.
Types of barrier methods include:
male (or external) condoms – a thin strong latex (rubber) pouch that come in different sizes and styles. (Not one size fits all.) Non-latex condoms are available for people who are allergic to latex.
female (or internal) condoms – a soft pouch made of synthetic rubber (looks a little like an external condom) with 2 flexible rings at each end. These condoms come in one size and are already lubricated, they are designed to fit inside the vagina or anus.
diaphragm – a soft, shallow cup made of silicone that fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix (entrance to the uterus or womb). Diaphragms provide good protection against pregnancy, but they do not protect you from STIs.
Condoms are available from supermarkets, pharmacies (or chemists), sexual health clinics and family planning clinics. They can also be purchased from nightclubs, pubs, colleges and universities.
How to have safer sex with condoms and other barrier methods?
Follow these simple tips when using condoms and other barrier methods:
- Always use a new, lubricated condom every time you have sex.
- Check the use-by date – don’t use a condom past its expiry date.
- When opening the packet, be careful not to tear the condom with fingernails, jewellery or teeth.
- If you need extra lubricant, use only water-based lubricants. Other lubricants can damage the condom.
- Condoms should be used from the start of sex to the very end. STIs can be transmitted when your partner pre-ejaculates (‘pre-cums’) on arousal.
- Use dental dams (a sheet of latex worn over the female genitals) during oral sex.
Remember that a diaphragm (a cap worn high in the vagina to cover the cervix) provides low protection against STIs.
