Every year, 13th February is observed as the international condom day. The day aims at reminding the public that using condoms is the easiest and effective way to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and the incidence of unplanned or unintentional pregnancy. Today on the occasion of international condom day, through this health article we present to you some facts about condoms, advantages and disadvantages of condoms, and precautions while using condoms.

Must know facts about condoms

  • Condoms are barrier method of contraception and the only type of contraception that provide protection against STDs and also help prevent pregnancy.

  • There are two types of condoms, namely the external condoms or male condoms that are worn on the penis and internal condoms or female condoms that are worn (inserted) inside the vagina.
  • If used correctly male condoms are 98% effective and female condoms are 95% effective in preventing pregnancy.
  • Latex based condoms may lose their efficacy if they come in contact with oil-based products – such as Vaseline, lotions, and moisturizer.
  • Oil based products do not affect the use of polyurethane condoms.
  • Water-based lubricant is safe to use with all condoms.
  • Condoms should be stored in places that are neither too hot nor cold, and away from rough surfaces or sharp objects that could tear them.
  • Condoms are single use products and must not be used more than once.
  • Condoms should be used before their expiry date.
  • People allergic or sensitive to latex can use polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms instead.

Advantages and disadvantages of condoms

Advantages of using condoms:


  • Condoms are reliable method of preventing pregnancy and protecting both partners from STIs and STDs.
  • They are suitable for unplanned sex as they do not require any advance preparation and need to be used while having sex.
  • In the vast majority cases there are no medical side effects from using condoms.
  • They are easily available and also come in a variety of shapes, sizes and flavors.

Disadvantages of using condoms:

  • Some couples find that using condoms interrupts sex.
  • Condoms may split or tear if not used properly. 
  • Some people may be allergic to latex, or spermicides.
  • It's possible for a condom to slip off during sex. If this happens, you may need to get checked for STDs and also you may require emergency contraception.

Precautions while using condoms

  • While indulging in vaginal sex, avoid touching vagina and the surrounding area with penis before wearing a condom.
  • Practice how to use condom properly to avoid accidental tears or splitting of the condom.
  • Avoid using oil-based lubricants, such as lotion, baby oil or petroleum jelly, with latex or polyisoprene condoms.
  • Use an additional contraception method along with condom to prevent unintentional pregnancy  if using medicines for conditions like candida infection (thrush) as these medications may damage or make the condom less effective.

  • If using flavored condoms, restrict the use of flavored condoms only to oral sex and switch to regular condoms for vaginal sex, as the  ingredients used in flavored condoms (these condoms are mostly sugar coated or coated with flavored lubricants) might affect vaginal pH and also cause itching and irritation. It is advisable to exercise caution and always read labels before experimenting with flavored condoms (since some lubricants used may not be safe for swallowing).

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