Your questions
We've collected together the most frequently asked questions about contraception, to ensure that you can find the right contraception for you.
Yes, but only if they are used properly.
There are a range of tests performed by both regulatory agencies and the condom manufacturers. These include electronic testing, the water leak test, the air burst test and the strength test.
Check that the use-by date has not expired, that they carry a standards approval mark (either FDA, ISO, CE or the British Standard Kite Mark), and that they have been properly stored.
Studies have shown that when male condoms are used correctly, they are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28
If female condoms are used properly, they are 95% effective.29
- Leidenberger FA. Klinische Endokrinologie fur Frauenarzte. Berlin, Germany: Springer Verlag, 1998
- Baltzer J, Mickan H. Gynakologie: Ein kurzgefabtes Lehrbuch/Kern. Neuberbeitete Auflage. Stuttgart, Germany, Georg Thieme Verlag, 1985
- NuvaRing Prescribing Information 2008. Organon.
- Ortho Evra Prescribing Information November 2005. Ortho-McNeil Pharmceutical Inc.
- Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo. Prescribing Information August 2007. Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical Inc.
- Speroff L, Darney PD. Periodic Abstinence: A clinical guide for contraception. 3rd Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 2001
- Trussell J. Contraceptive efficacy. In Hatcher RA, Trussell J, Stewart F, Cates W, Stewart GK, Kowal D, Guest F. Contraceptive Technology; Seventeenth Revised Edition. New York NY: Irvington Publishers, 1998
When used properly (i.e. the condom doesn't split or burst), they can be very effective in preventing both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If a condom breaks and is the only form of contraception being used, then there is a risk that you may become pregnant. If this were to happen you should consider using emergency contraception. If a condom breaks there is also a risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Female condoms are one size.
Male condoms are made in different lengths and widths, and different manufacturers produce varying sizes. There is no standard length for male condoms, though those made from natural rubber will in addition always stretch if necessary to fit the length of the man's erect penis.
The width of a condom can also vary. Some male condoms have a slightly smaller width to give a ''closer'' fit, whereas others will be slightly larger.
Using two condoms at the same time-either two male condoms or a male and female condom - is not a good idea as the friction may result in one or both of the condoms tearing. If you want to take extra precautions against pregnancy when having sex, and are concerned about the possibility of a condom breaking it is better to use another form of contraception. For example, using a contraceptive pill as well as a condom will ensure that you both have double protection against pregnancy as well as protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you are going to use a condom under water it is important that you put the condom on before you get into the water. Also, if the water contains chemicals such as chlorine, or additives such as soap, bath oil or bubble bath then this may affect the latex.