Condoms

Condoms are the only form of contraception that, if correctly used, protect against both sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy.

Free condoms

If you are under 25 you can get free condoms by signing up to the C-card scheme. When you sign up you will be given a demonstration on how to use a condom correctly, information on making choices and safer sex and then given a C-card which you can show at a variety of services to pick up more free condoms.

Many sexual health and contraceptive clinics will also offer free condoms to people of all ages attending their clinics.

Male condom

Made of very thin latex (rubber) or polyurethane (plastic) it is put over the erect penis and stops sperm from entering the woman’s vagina.

The male condom is 98 per cent effective if used according to instructions.

Advantages

  • Free from contraception, sexual health and GUM clinics, young people’s services, some general practices and sold widely.
  • Can help protect both partners from some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
  • No medical side-effects.

Disadvantages

  • Putting it on can interrupt sex.
  • May slip off or split if not used correctly, or is the wrong size or shape.
  • Man needs to withdraw as soon as he has ejaculated and before the penis goes soft, being careful not to spill any semen.

Important facts

  • A condom must be put on before the penis touches a partner’s genital area.
  • Advised to use extra lubricant when using condoms for anal sex.
  • The condom can be damaged if it comes into contact with oil based lubricants/ medications, e.g. baby oil, lipstick, suncream/ oil, treatments for thrush, etc.
  • Only use water-based lubricants provided by clinics, chemists and condom manufacturers.

Female condom

A soft, thin polyurethane sheath that loosely lines the vagina and covers the area just outside, and stops sperm from entering the vagina.

The female condom is 95 per cent effective if used according to instructions.

Advantages

  • Can be put in any time before sex
  • Can help protect both partners from some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
  • Oil based products can be used with female condoms.
  • No medical side-effects.

Disadvantages

  • Putting it in can interrupt sex.
  • Need to make sure the man’s penis enters the condom and not between the vagina and the condom.
  • May get pushed into the vagina.
  • Not as widely available as the male condom.