What is a male condom?
- The male condom is a latex sheath that is rolled over a male’s penis to prevent secretions from entering another person’s body.
Benefits
- Latex condoms offer the best protection against most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV infection than any other birth control method.
How does the condom work?
- The male condom is rolled over an erect penis. It prevents body fluids from mixing between partners.
- Condoms are not reusable – used condoms must be tossed in the garbage after one use.
- If an unused condom seems dry, stick, or stiff when it comes out of the package, or if it is past the expiry date, throw it away and use a new one.
- Male condoms and female condoms should not be used together.
Where can I get condoms?
- Condoms are available without a prescription, from pharmacies, public washrooms, supermarkets, convenience stores, family planning centres and the Brant County Health Unit.
What if the condom breaks during sex?
- Oil-based lubricants such as mineral oil, petroleum jelly, or baby oil can weaken a condom and cause it to break easily.
- Do not use these substances with a condom.
- Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are available for females to take within 5 days after unprotected sex or if a condom breaks during sex. Talk with your health care provider or call a Public Health Nurse at the Sexual Health Clinic at the Brant County Health Unit.
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