Synonyms in a broader sense
Condom, rubber, Parisian English : condom, contraceptive sheath
Definition
The condom is the only contraceptive used by men. It consists of highly elastic rubber, is about half a millimeter thick and is slipped over the erect member before sexual intercourse. While the inner surface contains a spermicidal agent (spermicide), the condom is wetted on the outside with a silicone-based agent.
Advantages of the condom
The condom is still the first choice for contraception methods. It is the only method where contraception and protection against infection are available at the same time. Protection against infection by condoms is guaranteed for gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, HPV viruses, HIV viruses (AIDS) and genital herpes. The condom is also suitable if the woman is not allowed to use hormonal contraception (see hormonal contraceptives) for medical reasons. These include women with a history of severe migraines or thromboses, heavy smokers and women with high blood pressure.
Disadvantages of the condom
Men criticize especially reduced stimulation and reduced sensation. Women, on the other hand, may experience a burning sensation and vaginal dryness. For both partners, the use of a condom often represents an unromantic interruption of coitus.
Allergies are caused to 90% by the spermicide nonoxinol-9, which also poses an increased risk for some sexually transmitted infections. For this, however, as for latex allergies, there are substitute preparations available which do not contain this substance. The vas deferens valve is a new invention for contraception in men.
The safety of contraception is rated 2 to 12 according to the Pearl index. This means that 2-12 out of 100 women per year will still become pregnant with this contraceptive method. However, the relatively high Pearl Index, in contrast to hormone preparations such as the “pill”, is mainly due to application errors: The quality of the condom can be checked by the consumer using the DLF (Deutsche Latex-Forschungs- und Entwicklungsgemeinschaft – German Latex Research and Development Association) seal of approval.
- By touching the limb beforehand, sperm are placed on the outside of the condom.
- Incomplete unrolling of the condom as well as an incorrectly selected size can cause the condom to slip or be completely lost.
- If the sperm reservoir at the tip of the condom is not compressed when the condom is put on, air can accumulate here and the condom can burst.
- Long fingernails and genital piercings can damage the condom and cause it to leak.
- The use of oily gels, antimycotics and some spermicide suppositories can damage the surface of the condom.
- Particularly with condoms from a vending machine, you should pay attention to the expiration date.
- Incorrect storage, where the condom is exposed to extreme temperatures, UV radiation and mechanical friction (wallet / trouser pocket), can cause massive damage to the condom.
When the first condom was produced in 1855, it was still made of vulcanized rubber. Since 1930, condoms have been made of latex, which is clearly superior in elasticity. With latex condoms, however, it must be noted that only water- or silicone-oil-based agents may be used in addition, as otherwise the surface of the condom becomes porous and safety is compromised.
For latex allergy sufferers, alternative materials such as polyethylene, polyisoprene and polyurethane are available, although these are considerably more expensive. With regard to color, size and shape, there are many different designs. When choosing the right condom size, the circumference of the limb is the most important factor, less its length.
In terms of shapes, raised surfaces should have a stimulating effect. In the meantime, a wide range of different tastes and particularly sturdy condoms are also available in stores. Furthermore, there is also a condom for women – the so-called femidom.
It consists of polyurethane and is placed in the vagina before sexual intercourse. Like the condom, it protects against sex infections and has a Pearl index of 1 to 14.
