1Life Healthcare : The Ultimate Birth Control Comparison Guide

Brand Name(s): Trojan™, Durex®, LifeStyles®, FC2 Female Condom, and more.

Effectiveness: Moderate. With perfect use, 2 out of 100 people using male condoms (and 5 out of 100 female condom users) will become pregnant. With typical use, 18 in 100 people using male condoms (and 21 of 100 female condom users) will become pregnant.

What is it?

Male condoms are worn on the penis during intercourse. Most condoms are latex, but polyurethane condoms are available for people with latex allergies.

Female condoms are a tube-shaped barrier method worn by the receptive partner during vaginal or anal intercourse. As opposed to male condoms, they are usually made of polyurethane or nitrile, so they are good for people with latex allergies. The closed end of the female condom rests inside the vagina or anus while the open end sits on the outside of the body. Flexible rings on either end of the female condom help guide insertion. Note: only one condom (male or female) should be used during a sexual act.

Latex condoms (most male condoms) should only be used with water-based lubricant such as K-Y® Jelly. Oil-based lubricant, such as Vaseline, will break down the latex and make the condom less effective. Since female condoms are made with polyurethane, they can be used with both water- and oil-based lubricants.

How does it work?

Condoms act as barriers, collecting semen during ejaculation and preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Condoms also protect against many sexually transmitted infections. Effectiveness is increased if condoms are used with spermicide or in conjunction with withdrawal.

Pros

• No office visit or prescription required
• Protects against HIV and many other STIs
• No side effects
• Non-hormonal
• May help alleviate premature ejaculation
• Can be used with other birth control methods to increase effectiveness
• Can be used while breastfeeding

Cons

• May break or slip off, requiring the need for emergency contraception
• Reduces spontaneity (although female condoms can be inserted prior to sex play)
• May reduce sensation for both partners
• Female condoms may make intercourse noisy