Are Male Condoms the Right Method for Me?
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There are a number of factors you should consider before deciding whether male condoms are the right contraceptive method for you. As with any method of contraception, you should first talk to your health care provider or a counselor at your local clinic or hospital before using condoms as a contraceptive method.

 

Male condoms may be an appropriate method for you
If any of the following is true:
 

  • You are at risk for exposure to or transmission of a sexually transmitted infection, including HIV infection. Aside from abstinence, male and female condoms offer the best protection against these infections.
     
  • You prefer to use a method that you can discontinue at any time.
     
  • You and your partner are looking for a back-up method (for example, in case your partner forgets to take her oral contraceptives).
     
  • Your partner has a medical condition that poses a health risk with the use of other contraceptive methods.
     
  • You have sexual intercourse only occasionally and do not need or want ongoing contraception.
     
  • You are concerned about the side effects of other methods
     
  • You and your partner want to share responsibility for family planning and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.
     
  • Your partner has just delivered a baby. (You may begin using condoms as soon as you resume sexual intercourse.)
     
  • Your partner has just had an abortion. (You may begin using condoms as soon as you resume sexual intercourse.)
     

Male condoms may not be an appropriate method for you
If any of the following is true:
 

  • You are unable to obtain regular supplies of condoms.
     
  • You are allergic to latex (or your partner is).
     
  • You cannot maintain an erection when using a condom.
     
  • You or your partner are unwilling to interrupt lovemaking in order to use a condom.
     

For more information about this method, see Male Condoms: Questions & Answers.